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FINALLY... 12-12-07
Rob Dixon
Well, bloody hell! It took time, it took guts and it took a lot of avoiding Match of the Day on a Saturday night but FINALLY our beloved Boro have gained their first three points since September.
And what a way to do it!
I don't think I'm the only person who will describe the performance against Arsenal as the best since Bucharest. Passion, pride, urgency: they were all on display in an excellent showing.
Sat in my local pub watching Setanta, I was drawn into the atmosphere at the ground and wished I was there.
The Riverside roar was booming through the TV speakers and it reminded me of how well Boro fans can get behind their team. Indeed, it's hard to remember what a cheering crowd is like after the few months of cynicism and depression we've had.
Every player was worth their weight on that performance and not one was carried by the rest of the team. Everyone hassled and harried the Arsenal players into making rash decisions and everyone ran their socks off.
It was what we've wanted to see from the side for all this time.
After games like this, the big question always is: Where do we go from here?
I have a nagging feeling that if the right result is not gained at Derby on Saturday, the result last Sunday will be of little substance.
Southgate now has the challenge of getting his side up for this vital game. He must prepare them to work as hard against what will no doubt be a disciplined and aggressive County side. The team has set standards now and the manager will surely know what the expectations of the fans are.
Finally, the side has shown what it is capable of this season. Hopefully this will spur the players on to put in the same commitment and effort for the rest of the season, testing bigger sides and putting smaller teams to the sword in the process.
Another major talking point from Sunday is that there is now a new generation of heroes who are stepping up to the plate to give their all for the Boro.
Much has already been said about Tuncay's performance but am I the only person who is slightly infuriated by the fact that Aliadiere can't seem to put the ball in the net? The player has been truly brilliant for us but I hope he begins to get some of the goals that his work rate deserves.
In addition, Gary O'Neil is a pure ball of energy. Hard working and always willing to give one hundred per cent, I would have loved it if his volley in the second half had hit the back of the net. However, I'll happily settle for the fact that the Turk smashed the rebound in.
I truly hope that this side continues to gain results and rave reviews as it would be wonderful to see a young English manager gain some respect and show he is more than capable enough to challenge his older peers at their own game.
The Premier League is in desperate need of a revolution but for now, let's hope ours continues with a good result at Pride Park.
Up the Boro!
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