MIDDLESBROUGH (4-2-3-1):
7 Randolph: Did not have to deal with a single shot on target, but made a number of important punches from crosses
7 Christie: Made a series of telling attacking breaks down the right and was always on top of his defensive duties
6 Ayala: Won some important headers, but his composure remains an issue and he was booked for a really clumsy foul
7 Gibson: Calm and composed throughout as he marshalled Boro’s defensive unit from the heart of the back four
7 Fabio: Bright and industrious down the left-hand side, and came close with a first-half effort that flashed into the side-netting
8 Leadbitter: Back in the side after he was axed from the squad at Bristol City and immediately improved things as he kept the ball moving
7 Howson: Complemented Leadbitter perfectly as he passed the ball neatly and looked to get Boro on the front foot
8 Downing: Set up Boro’s opening goal with an inviting cross from the right – has been Boro’s most consistent performer this season by a distance
8 BAMFORD: Made a major impact as he returned to the side, with his excellent second-half strike making the game safe
6 Braithwaite: Remained effective on the left-hand side and claimed his fourth goal of the season with a driven close-range finish
6 Assombalonga: Was only involved in patches, but came close with a low first-half shot and a header after the interval
Subs:
Johnson (for Downing, 77)
Gestede (for Bamford, 80)
Forshaw (for Leadbitter, 90)
(not used): Konstantopoulos (gk), Friend, Fry, Traore.
IPSWICH (4-2-3-1):
BIALKOWSKI 6; Spence 5, Chambers 4, Webster 5, Knudsen 6; Connolly 5, Skuse 4; Ward 4 (Bishop 61, 5), Huws 4 (Garner 46, 4), Celina 5 (Sears 61, 4); Waghorn 6.
Subs (not used): Crowe (gk), Iorfa, Downes, Kenlock.
Man Of The Match: PATRICK BAMFORD – Made only his second league start since mid-August, but made a big difference as he linked play effectively and provided a potent attacking threat.
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