Hayden Hackney strike keeps Middlesbrough second | OneFootball

Middlesbrough beat Norwich City 1-0 at the Riverside as Hayden Hackney's first half winner kept them second in the Championship.

In the 17th minute, Hayden Hackney hammered a right-footed strike from outside the box into the top right corner after Riley McGree's lay-off.

Ali Ahmed went close with a header wide of the far post (33.) as the Canaries searched for a leveller.

After the restart, Morgan Whittaker spurned a big chance from close range (50.), before Vladan Kovacevic tipped Matt Targett's rising effort over (57.). The goalkeeper later denied Tommy Conway from inside the box (84.) as Boro looked for a cushion.

A double change gave the Canaries fresh legs on the hour, and Jovon Makama blazed over from the centre of the area (78.). Ruairi McConville then headed wide from a set piece (88.) with the game still in the balance.

Four minutes of second half stoppage time were indicated, and Boro saw the game out with control.

Boro registered nine attempts, with five on target. The Canaries produced eight attempts and won five corners.

Next, Boro visit Sheffield United. The Canaries host Blackburn.