Away win a long time in coming says Southgate

Posted on 14th January 2007

Middlesbrough picked up an important 3–1 win over Charlton yesterday as they continued to put distance between themselves and the relegation pack. Former Boro striker Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink put Charlton ahead when his shot deflected off Jonathan Woodgate and looped over Mark Schwarzer. Lee Cattermole equalised when he slotted home just before the break after being set up by Mark Viduka. Julio Arca side–footed Boro ahead in the 63rd minute before Yakubu sealed the win with a sweet right–footed shot.

The win over Charlton was Middlesbrough's first on the road under manager Gareth Southgate. The Middlesbrough boss admitted the result had been a long time in coming and he revealed his delight not just at his players but everyone behind the scenes.

"It's been too long but I'm delighted with not only the players but my backroom staff, who've got this week bang on," said Southgate. "Without the backing of my staff we have couldn't have taken the steps forward we have. We wanted to make this one count, we highlighted it was a fixture we should get a win from. We don't celebrate too much because there's a lot of work to be done but it's great to send our fans back onto the motorway with a smile on their faces. The support we've had today was fantastic again."

Earlier Middlesbrough news

Boro need to take their chances says Slaven
Riggott ready to battle
Middlesbrough interested in pair
Boro hopeful of cup run but Hull confident
Forwards can ease Boro away
Southgate wants Viduka to stay
Southgate delighted at character shown
We must win the battle first says Cattermole
Viduka wants to stay
Boro will come good insists Viduka
Friendship on the backburner
Uneasy relationship draws to a close
Sporting Lisbon more than keen on Rochemback
Southgate set to downsize Boro squad
Schwarzer thankful for point