BORO'S BATTLERS DELIGHT CARRICK

Howson makes up for miss

- Mark Thomas

HUDDERSFIELD T 1

MIDDLESBROUGH 2

MIDDLESBROUGH go into their New Year’s Day clash against Coventry in confident mood after taking all three points at the John Smith’s Stadium on Friday evening.

Boro boss Michael Carrick hailed the “unbelievable” spirit of his players after the victory over Huddersfield.

Both sides missed easy chances in the first period, with Boro’s Isaiah Jones mis-kicking the ball two yards in front of an open net before Town’s Josh Koroma crashed off the crossbar after rounding the goalkeeper.

Second-half substitute Josh Coburn lifted over Jacob Chapman to put Boro in front but the home side were not behind for long as Michal Helik’s strike from the edge of the box made it 1-1.

Boro had the chance to win it late on from the penalty spot but Jonny Howson saw it saved by Chapman only for him to redeem himself and net the winner moments later.