Despite fifachampion beating Norwich twice this season

  • Despite fifachampion beating Norwich twice this season, Middlesbrough had been completely over-run and spent the rest of the half just trying to recover their composure. It didn't help that Patrick Bamford, the gifted young striker loaned to Karanka by his friend and Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho, struggled to make an impact as Norwich's industrious midfield cut off the supply lines.

    After a first half that must have exceeded their worst nightmares, Middlesbrough made a brighter start to the second period and Bamford's shot on the turn forced a sprawling save from John Ruddy. Ayala had a header blocked on the line by Lewis Grabban in the closing stages.

    But Middlesbrough's revival came too late to  www.fifachampion.com disturb Neil's team, who cruised to the finish line while their yellow-clad fans got the promotion party started.