MIDDLESBROUGH will go in search of their first win of the season during back-to-back away trips with a long journey down to Reading this weekend. 

Boro are yet to taste victory this season after a stoppage time equaliser denied them three points against Stoke City as the game finished 2-2. 

Chris Wilder's side have drawn three and lost one of their opening four league games of the season and face a trip to the Royals this weekend who beat Blackburn Rovers in midweek. The task set out by the manager is for them to match the performance against the Potters. “Another tough Championship game, we understand that" said the Boro boss. 

“I thought our energy levels were superb. A couple of boys ran out of puff at the end but we looked hot on it, aggressive, loads of energy and desire about our game and we’re going to have to show that.

“We’ve got a quick turnaround. Back home, train tomorrow, back down to London Friday, into Reading, prepare and go again. We can’t excuse anyone for it. This is what the division is, this is what the fixture list chucks up and we have to go and deal with two away games on the bounce.

“If we keep going, if we played anything like tonight then I’m sure we’ll get the results we’re all after." 

It was a frustrating evening for Wilder's men who dominated Michael O'Neill's side but still walked away with just a point.

Boro will be hopeful striker Chuba Akpom will be available for the game at the Madesjki Stadium. After scoring twice against Sheffield United, the 26-year-old missed the 2-2 draw with Stoke through a knee injury. The club are awaiting the results of a scan.

Meanwhile, Reading goalkeeper Joe Lumley, who is on loan from Boro for the season, will be unavailable for the game as he won't be able to play against his parent club.