Neil Warnock says Middlesbrough must improve at Watford despite pleasing Carabao Cup win over Shrewsbury Town

Boro scored four goals in a competitive home game for the first time since a 5-0 FA Cup victory over Peterborough in January 2019, yet the Teessiders’ defending was questionable at times.

Ashley Fletcher netted a brace while Marvin Johnson and Marcus Tavernier also got on the scoresheet at the Riverside.

The win marked Boro’s first home win since Boxing Day, a relief for Warnock and his players.

"It’s always nice, especially when you go a goal down with our record,” said Warnock. “I’m sure one or two of the lads who have been here a while had doubts.

"We carried on playing and working hard and it was good to see Fletch get a couple.”

“There's plenty to talk about on Monday. It's great to score four goals but disappointing to concede like we did.

“We're a bit thin on the ground on the bench. It was a really competitive game. They're a good side Shrewsbury, they'll have a good season. They beat Burnley last week. I was pleased overall.”

Warnock will hope for improvements when his side travel to Watford next week for their opening Championship game of the campaign.

"It will be a bit different at Watford, their front three is really good,” Warnock added. “We'll have to defend better than that.

“These three weeks have been really intense. At least now we can have a few days off and get on certain tactical things next week.

“The lads have enjoyed pre-season, they've given me everything. There was no lack of effort tonight. The ability was very good. One or two disappointing aspects but you're going to get that at this stage.”

Warnock said on Thursday he was hopeful he could bring in another signing before the Watford game but wouldn’t be drawn on transfers after the match.

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