Chuba Akpom scored the only goal of the game shortly after half-time before James Collins saw a penalty disallowed for Luton and Sam Morsy was sent off for the hosts.
Our Middlesbrough writer Joe Nicholson has dished out his marks from the match – scroll down and flick through the pages of our picture gallery to see them:
. MIDDLESBROUGH, ENGLAND -DECEMBER 16: Luton Manager Nathan Jones argues with the officials after a penalty was called off during the Sky Bet Championship match between Middlesbrough and Luton Town at Riverside Stadium on December 16, 2020 in Middlesbrough, England. The match will be played without fans, behind closed doors as a Covid-19 precaution. (Photo by Ian Horrocks/Getty Images)
Middlesbrough vs Luton. Photo: Ian Horrocks
. Marcus Bettinelli - 5
Didn’t have much to do and almost cost his side when he spilled a long-range shot which led to a Luton penalty. Made an excellent save late on though. 5 Photo: Alex Pantling
. Anfernee Dijksteel - 7
Made a few forays forward in the first half and saw out his defensive duties as Luton applied the pressure. 7 Photo: Getty Images
. Paddy McNair - 8
Delivered a few dangerous set-pieces and read the game well at the back as Boro’s defence stood firm. 8 Photo: Alex Pantling
. Dael Fry - 8
Made a crucial block after Boro went down to ten men and was commanding in the air throughout. 8 Photo: PA
. Marc Bola - 7
Another solid performance at left-back as Boro were rarely threatened on the flanks. 7 Photo: Alex Dodd - CameraSport
5. Marc Bola - 7
Another solid performance at left-back as Boro were rarely threatened on the flanks. 7 Photo: Alex Dodd - CameraSport
6. Sam Morsy - 5
Gave Boro protection in midfield before he was harshly sent off for handball. 5 Photo: Alex Pantling
7. George Saville - 7
Didn’t offer as much going forward but was full of energy again and helped cover ground when Boro went down to ten men. 7 Photo: Getty Images
8. Marvin Johnson - 6
Quiet in the first half but claimed another assist and saw out his defensive duties before he was substituted in the second half. 6 Photo: George Wood