Middlesbrough recorded an impressive and much needed win at Charlton Athletic on Saturday, watched on by a large travelling support.
Paddy McNair’s winning goal lifted them to 19th in the table and eased the pressure somewhat, especially with a number of other sides dropping points.
We look at some of the key statistics from the weekend relating to Boro and those rivals around them in the Championship table, as well as the individual players who shone or struggled elsewhere in the division.
We look at some of the key statistics from the weekend relating to Boro and those rivals around them in the Championship table, as well as the individual players who shone or struggled elsewhere in the division.
5. Charlton’s counter-attack concern
The Addicks may need to be wary about allowing counter-attacks. In the home defeat to Middlesbrough, Charlton were counter-attacked against five times, more than their average. Boro were able to create shooting opportunities on two occasions.
Photo: Harry Engels
6. Hatters strong defence
Luton Town were certainly not at their attacking best on Saturday, recording just one shot on target, while none of the seven crosses found a Luton player. Defensively they were sound. The 52 interceptions and 32 clearances were higher than their season’s average.
Photo: Lewis Storey
7. Shot-shy Barnsley
It can be little surprise that Barnsley were defeated by Cardiff City. They didn’t create a clear cut chance with all four shots going off target and they posted an xG of 0.15, one of the lowest of the season.
Photo: Harry Trump
8. Star of the weekend - Matt Smith - Millwall
It could only be one man. The striker netted a 13-minute first half hat-trick to down Nottingham Forest. Smith scored with all three of his shots and all three of his touches in the box ended up in the back of the net.
Photo: Nathan Stirk