Middlesbrough went top of the Championship for the first time since mid-October after a strong win over 10-man Sheffield United. First-half goals from Tommy Conway and Riley McGree sealed a sixth straight victory, giving Boro a two-point lead over former leaders Coventry City.
Sheffield United pulled one back through Patrick Bamford in the second half, but their comeback hopes ended when debutant Joe Rothwell was sent off for a reckless challenge. It was the Blades’ first home defeat since 1 November.
The result sets up a big clash between the top two when Middlesbrough face Coventry City next Monday, while Sheffield United stay 16th, still eight points outside the play-off places.
