Our Boro writer Joe Nicholson has dished out his player ratings following the game, after Brentford striker Ollie Watkins scored the only goal of the match early in the second half. Scroll down and flick through our picture gallery to see who shone and who struggled for the Teessiders.
1. Jonny Howson - 7
Another solid display at right-back. Plugged the gaps when Boro were caught on the counter attack. 7 Photo: FRANK REID
2. Ryan Shotton - 5
Dived in on a couple of occasions which left Boro in trouble. 5 Photo: Frank Reid
3. Hayden Coulson - 6
Posed a threat from left-back but gave a few loose passes away. 6 Photo: Frank Reid
4. Adam Clayton - 5
Helped keep Boro on the front foot in the first half but was caught out on a couple of occasions in the second when Brentford broke quickly. 5 Photo: Frank Reid