A 4-0 win at the Super 6 Stadium saw Boro register their most convincing win of pre-season so far, with Jonathan Woodgate left pleased with a number of aspects of his team’s performance. But who shone and struggled against Pools? Our writer Joe Nicholson takes a look – scroll down to see how he rated the players:
5. Martin Braithwaite - 7
Regularly drifted in from the left and showed his quality whenever he received the ball. Started the move for Boro’s second goal. 7 Photo: Jordan Mansfield
6. Marcus Tavernier - 7
Full of energy on the right. Didn’t track back at times but claimed a goal and an assist at the other end. 7 Photo: FRANK REID
7. Rudy Gestede - 6
Lost most of his aerial battles in the first half but got on the scoresheet with a powerful header. 6 Photo: FRANK REID
8. Marvin Johnson - 6
(for Braithwaite 45) - Caused some problems on the left after coming on at half-time. 6 Photo: FRANK REID