Boro Crash out of the Cup

There was a real shock in store for Boro fans as we crashed out of the FA Cup at the very first hurdle at home to Burnley. Our fellow Championship side looked decidedly second best throughout the most one sided of first periods. Despite resting several players Boro looked head and shoulders above the Lancashire side and were really good value for the one goal lead through Fabbrini.

At that stage it seemed for all the world, including a sizeable travelling contingent from Burnley that we would repeat the league victory we recorded at the Riverside less than a month ago. Yet we were guilty of squandering plenty of clear cut opportunities to add to that lead. The excellent Burnley keeper Tom Heaton thwarted David Nugent's one on one breakaway. Their stopper was plugging holes in the most porous looking defence.

Then right on half time Burnley stunned the 18 000 Riverside crowd with a quick smash and grab break and Hennings popped up unmarked in our box to equalise. It was the first goal we have conceded in what seems like centuries. A real sting in the tale just before half time.

After half time the play was more even with plenty of possession at both ends. But in saying that Boro were still carving out the better chances. Albert Adomah, switched over to his more favoured right was quite outstanding. He must have had over half our shots on target and also set up his team mates with so many chances. None more gilt edged than the cut back where he picked out Forshaw with precision. Sadly the midfielder put his header wide when he ought to have buried the chance.

Burnley shocked Boro once again when Ward pounced on a mishit in the box as Boro stood off for once. Suddenly the away team were in front but there was still 20 minutes to find our way back into the game.

Karanka threw on forwards Stuani and Kike but sadly it didn't work out. Adomah's threat was blunted on the left and the rest of the team lacked the composure to create a match turning chance.

Boro fans trudged away disappointed at defeat. But we had continued to sing, “top of the league”, throughout; in the back of our minds we know that the two League games this week at Brentford and Bristol City are probably of more importance. Everyone hates going out of the cup, especially at home in the 3rd round but in our case the old adage is maybe correct we can now concentrate on the league and staying out on top.

Middlesbrough 1-2 Burnley - FA Cup 3rd Round

Robert Nichols