Alves Draws A Blank For Stiffs!

Last updated : 25 March 2009 By Boro Mad

First-team regulars Ross Turnbull, Justin Hoyte, Matthew Bates, Julio Arca, Josh Walker and Afonso Alves all lined up for Martin Scott's men in the strongest reserve side of the season.

The visitors' first attempt on goal came in the 14th minute, when a refereeing decision left Arca and many of his team-mates bemused edge of the area, after a well-timed sliding tackle from the Argentine.

Magnus Eikrem stood up to the free-kick and floated the ball past Turnbull to give United a somewhat fortunate advantage.

Boro started brightly in the second half, full of endeavour and purpose as they attempted to get back on level terms.

A solo effort from Arca nearly snatched a point for Boro after a mazy run culminated in a right-footed shot from the midfielder, but the ball flew over the bar.

Boro: Turnbull; Hoyte, Hines, Grounds, Bennett, Bates, Smallwood (Capt) (Corker 68), Arca, Walker (Capt from 68), Martin (Gal-Andrezly 68), Alves. Unused subs: Knight (gk); Saiko, Cronesberry.

Manchester United: Amos; Eckersley, Fabio, Evans (Capt) (Wootton 90), De Laet, James, Eikrem (Stewart 72), Possebon, Macheda, Martin (Norwood 82), Brady. Unused subs: Zieler (gk).

Attendance: 1,074