Pools were put to the sword by a strong Boro side, but manager Craig Hignett will no doubt be pleased with aspects of what was a promising performance. And our Hartlepool United writer, Dominic Scurr, has dished out some fairly strong player ratings following the clash. Scroll down and click through the pages to see who he felt shone and struggled:
9. Gime Toure - 6
Saw plenty of the ball but was often left frustrated by the Middlesbrough defence. Wasted a good chance by hitting an air shot inside the Boro box but didn’t give up. Photo: FRANK REID
10. Luke Molyneux - 7
Found things trickier against superior opposition but was still able to cause the visitors some problems on occasion. Almost scored a sublime curling effort from 25-yards which sailed wide of the left post. Photo: FRANK REID
11. Nicke Kabamba - 7
Some good hold up play allowed Pools to get forward and create chances. Came close to scoring on a number of occasions and deserved to find the net for his efforts. Photo: Frank Reid
12. Nicky Featherstone - 6
Was introduced for Mafuta just before the hour mark but wasn’t able to have much impact on the game. Photo: Frank Reid