Standout star drives Middlesbrough past Sheffield United | OneFootball

Riley McGree unlocked it in the 19th minute with a precise assist, as Middlesbrough beat Sheffield United 2-1. The midfielder then headed in before the interval to cement Boro's platform.

He first slipped a clever ball for Tommy Conway to finish (19.), finding space between the lines as the Blades' back line retreated towards their own box.

On the stroke of half time he timed his run into the centre to glance a header home (45.), doubling Boro's advantage and tilting the game firmly their way.

McGree's influence went beyond the goal contributions: he created three chances, completed 33 of 36 passes, and won possession five times, twice in the attacking third. After a high-impact shift, he was withdrawn (67.).

Because Boro's shape consistently gave him pockets between midfield and defence, his movement kept the hosts off balance and ensured the visitors controlled the key phases.

Boro rise from second to first in the Championship. They visit Coventry next. The Blades travel to Portsmouth next.