Rapport från Dave, vår man på plats
Aye up duck,
A GREAT GREAT WIN THAT SETS US UP NICELY FOR THE RUN IN.
I've got to admit that I was pretty nervous before the game. Imagine how I was feeling when the referee gave 4 minutes of added time at the end.
It was actually the third time that we have had this ref this season. All have been home games. Spurs ( 2-1 win ), Liverpool (0-0) and now Boro ( 1-0 win )
Stoke had sold their allocation. Boro brought about 1,800.
Sorro - Much improved from last weeks effort at Everton. More assured and did what he had to do well.
Wilko - Was having a good game up until he was substituted at half time through injury. Made a great saving challenge early into the game when Boro broke through following a mistake by Ab Faye.
Higgy - Did well. Higgy is a good solid dependable defender.
Ab Faye - After making an uncharacteristic error early on that led a Boro attack he settled and had a good game.
Shawcross - Really having a good spell of form at the moment. Has now scored 3 following the unfortunate own goal versus Portsmouth last month.
Delap - Tireless effort. Moved into the middle when Diao went off.
Diao - Oh dear. Another poor game I’m afraid. Salif is really having a tough time at present. Unfortunately, he also was sarcastically applauded off by the supporters when substituted.
Whelan - Good game.
Lawrence - Much improved performance. Probably his best effort in the Premiership so far with Stoke. He actually beat a couple of defenders at one point before getting to the by-line and crossing for Beattie who really should of scored.
Beattie - Had a couple of efforts to score. In particular he will be disappointed that he failed to hit the back of the net after Lawrences good work. He actually phoned me tonight to encourage me to renew my season ticket. OK it was only a recorded message but who cares.
Fuller - Heavily marked by Boros rearguard throughout the game but still managed to cause them problems.
Kelly - Did well. Came on at half time for Wilko to make his home debut. Much better performance than his debut at Sunderland.
Etherington - Replaced Diao early into the second half and looked to get involved when the opportunity arose.
Sidibe - Came on just before the goal. Boro defenders were so worried about his presence that the left Shawcross free to score. Unfortunately, Mamas injury at Villa reserves on Monday night means that he will be out for a minimum of 3 weeks (probably more) and he will be missed.
Fantastic atmosphere during the game. Only down side was the sarcastic applause for Diao which wasn't necessary.
.................Dave
