We take a closer look at Boro’s Championship opener against the Hatters – who shone, who missed out, the key tactical battles and what the managers Jonathan Woodgate and Graeme Jones made of it all. Scroll down and flick through our picture gallery to relive the key moments.
1. Star man: Lewis Wing
The midfielder surely has a big part to play under Woodgate this season and showed his quality with an excellent strike in the second half. Photo: Harriet Lander
2. Good day: Marvin Johnson
A slightly surprising inclusion starting ahead of Marcus Tavernier and new signing Marcus Browne. Johnson looked a threat whenever he received the ball in the final third and assisted Ashley Fletcher for the opener. Photo: Harriet Lander
3. Bad day: George Saville
Despite a late cameo, the midfielder appears to be behind Wing, Paddy McNair and Adam Clayton in the midfield pecking order. Photo: FRANK REID
4. Key moment: Britt Assombalonga misses from the penalty spot
Boro had the chance to put the game beyond doubt when they were awarded a penalty at 3-2 up with nine minutes to go but Assombalonga fired over from the penalty spot. Woodgate backed his centre forward after the game . "No blaming him at all, he's my number nine, he's going to score more goals," said the Boro boss. Photo: George Wood