Decisive figure settles it for Middlesbrough against Norwich City | OneFootball

Hayden Hackney settled the game in the 17th minute with a right-footed strike into the top right corner as Middlesbrough beat Norwich City 1-0.

Early on, Hackney had already warmed Vladan Kovacevic's hands from distance (2.). He then stepped onto a loose second ball and drove the winner from outside the box after Riley McGree's lay-off (17.).

For Boro he kept asking for the ball and linked attacks late, slipping Tommy Conway through for a chance that was saved by the Canaries goalkeeper (84.). The midfielder's mix of timing and composure kept the visitors pinned back when it mattered.

He finished with two attempts, both on target, plus 14 recoveries, eight possession regains and three tackles won, underlining how he controlled midfield traffic. His 71 passes and 17 successful final third passes showed the tempo he set against the Canaries.

Boro remain second in the Championship. The Canaries slip from 18th to 19th. Boro visit Sheffield United next. The Canaries host Blackburn next.