The visitors were reduced to 10 men in the first half when George Saville was shown a straight red card for a late challenge on Krystian Bielik. Our Boro writer Joe Nicholson has dished out his player ratings following the match – scroll down and flick through our picture gallery to see them:
5. Paddy McNair - 6
Moved into midfield after the red card. Beavered away despite Derby’s man advantage. 6 Photo: Getty Images
6. Marvin Johnson - 6
Cut out some important forward passes on the flank and was moved to left-back in a back four after the red card. 6 Photo: Getty Images
7. Lewis Wing - 5
Wasn’t able to make much of an impact going forward but knuckled down as Boro came under the cosh. 5 Photo: Getty Images
8. George Saville - 3
Sloppy in possession before a late challenge on Bielik saw him dismissed before half-time. 3 Photo: George Wood