Six of the best for Boro in Rotterdam
By Shaun • Aug 8th, 2008 • Category: Match NewsMiddlesbrough bounced back from an early Arnold Slot goal to hit the Ere Divisie side for 6 in Rotterdam. Boro, captained by local star Stewart Downing, went behind after only 2 minutes as slack defending gave Slot an opportunity and he left Ross Turnbull with no chance.
Boro were behind for only a few minutes as Afonso Alves latched onto a through ball from Didier Digard and a characteristically cool finish from the Brazilian drew the visitors level.
On 13 minutes Middlesbrough took the lead courtesy of Jeremie Aliadiere, the Frenchman continuing his good pre-season form. Good work from Josh Walker and Tuncay presented a chance to the former Arsenal striker and he finished well. 2-1 became 3-1 as the ever impressive Josh Walker fired home a Downing pull back.
Just two minutes later Aliadiere dispossessed the Dutch fullback and released Alves. Afonso dispatched the chance with a fantastic, audacious chip as Boro pressed home their dominance. Captain Stewart Downing made it 5-1 in the first half taking a pass from Alves and drillng the ball home.
An excellent first half from Boro, full of attacking poise and clinical finishing. The second half saw Brad Jones brought on to replace Ross Turnbull, are we any closer to knowing who will start in goal against Spurs?
A much tamer affair the second half was punctuated by a moment a class from a young player that has impressed in the pre-season and must be staking a claim for a first team spot. Rhys Williams, the Wales Under-21 International, cut in from right hand side and fired a scorcher from 25 yards on his left foot that riped past the Dutch goalkeeper.
A slight scare for Boro as Tuncay took a knock and was replaced by Graeme Owens.
Boro: Turnbull (Jones 46), Williams (McMahon), Taylor, Walker (Johnson A), Huth, Wheater, Aliadiere (Emnes 67), Digard, Alves, Tuncay (Owens), Downing (Capt). Subs not used: Grounds, Bennett.
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Shaun is A Boro fan and owner of BoroMania.com. Born and brought up in the North East. Favourite players are Juninho, Slaven and David Wheater.
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