Middlesbrough secured an important 2-0 victory over Cardiff City, leaving the home side winless and rooted to the bottom of the Championship table.
The match was initially a sluggish affair, with neither team creating many clear-cut chances during the first half. Middlesbrough, however, looked slightly more cohesive, particularly through the midfield play of Finn Azaz, who tested Cardiff’s goalkeeper, Ethan Horvath, with two long-range efforts.
Cardiff emerged stronger after the break, spurred on by captain Aaron Ramsey, who came close to breaking the deadlock. Following a clever setup by substitute Ollie Tanner, Ramsey struck the post and saw another effort brilliantly tipped over by Boro’s Seny Dieng. Despite this bright spell for Cardiff, Middlesbrough took the lead against the run of play.
In the 64th minute, Matt Clarke powered home a header from a Finn Azaz corner, making it two goals in two Championship matches for the defender. The goal deflated Cardiff, who struggled to regain their momentum.
Middlesbrough secured all three points in the 82nd minute with a stroke of misfortune for Cardiff. Aidan Morris’s shot, heading wide, deflected off Ramsey and into the net, leaving Horvath with no chance. Despite Cardiff’s protests over a possible offside in the build-up, the goal stood, sealing a vital win for the visitors.
This victory moves Middlesbrough up to sixth place in the Championship table, a welcome boost after a mixed start to the season. Although they were not fluent, Boro’s ability to capitalize on their chances proved decisive.
Cardiff’s third loss in four league matches marks their third defeat, leaving them at the foot of the table with just one goal scored and a worrying goal difference of -9. While the season is still young, Cardiff’s struggles in front of goal and their position at the bottom of the standings are already raising concerns.
Writer’s View
Erol Bulut might have avoided being the first Championship manager to be dismissed, but on this showing, it’ll be a surprise if he lasts until Christmas.
Cardiff haven’t had a good window, and they were second best for much of the fixture. They’re only four matches in, but these are worrying times in South Wales, especially as they weren’t particularly in danger last season.
As for Boro, they were challengers last season, and have looked like picking up where they left off. Perhaps Bulut can take solace from the fact Michael Carrick was under pressure on Teesside at one point, and he turned their fortunes around courtesy of the board’s patience.
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