Chelsea boss Mauricio Pochettino bemoaned a familiar lack of cutting edge after his team lost the first leg of their League Cup semi-final 1-0 to Championship side Middlesbrough at the Riverside on Tuesday.

Hayden Hackney scored the only goal on 38 minutes as Pochettino's expensively assembled array of stars again failed to perform away from home.

Chelsea have lost five of their last six away games and 21 times on the road since the beginning of last season -- the most of any Premier League team.

The Blues must turn the tie around when the sides meet again at Stamford Bridge on January 23 to avoid heaping more pressure on Pochettino's position during a disappointing first season in charge for the Argentine.

"If we assess the performance overall we were the better side, had clear chances, but we didn't score and weren't clinical," said Pochettino. "It happened a lot this season."

Boro boss Michael Carrick could have been forgiven for cursing his luck after losing top scorer Emmanuel Latte Lath to injury after just three minutes.

Carrick was also forced to withdraw Alex Bangura inside 20 minutes but the second-tier side were not fazed.

"It's very special," said the former Manchester United midfielder. "I know it's a two-legged affair and there is still all to play for, but for what we've had to go through, the injuries, the setbacks we've had, to beat a team of Chelsea's quality is unbelievable."

Middlesbrough had not scored against Chelsea for over 17 years. The Blues had won the past nine meetings by an aggregate score of 21-0.

However, the home side ended that drought eight minutes before half-time.

The pace of Isaiah Jones down the right caused Chelsea's makeshift left-back Levi Colwill problems all night and his low cross was turned in by Hackney from close range.

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<h2>Profligate Palmer</h2>

Chelsea, though, should have at least been level at the break had Cole Palmer maintained his fine scoring form in front of goal.

The former Manchester City academy graduate has been one of Chelsea's few big money signings to hit the ground running under Pochettino.

However, Palmer twice failed to hit the target with glorious first-half chances.

Firstly, he pulled his shot wide from the edge of the area after pouncing on an errant pass from Jonny Howson, and then he fired over the rebound after Tom Glover fumbled Enzo Fernandez's effort.

Palmer then fired too close to Glover with another big chance just before the break.

The flow of the second half was a different story as Chelsea pegged the home side back in search of an equaliser.

But there was a familiarity to the visitors' inability to find a way through.

Despite the club spending over £1 billion ($1.3 billion) on players in the last three transfer windows, Pochettino suggested last month he would need to look to strengthen once more in order to address the lack of a goal threat.

Noni Madueke looked the most likely spark to Chelsea's attack, but he was sacrificed as Pochettino threw on Mykhailo Mudryk and Armando Broja.

Raheem Sterling should have been more alive to meet one dangerous low cross from Broja, but that was all Chelsea's vast amount of possession in the final 20 minutes amounted to.

Middlesbrough conceded late to lose 1-0 to Aston Villa in the FA Cup third round on Saturday.

But this time the team that sit 12th in the Championship held out to keep their dreams of a Wembley final against either Liverpool or Fulham very much alive heading into the second leg.

Chelsea boss Mauricio Pochettino bemoaned a familiar lack of cutting edge after his team lost the first leg of their League Cup semi-final 1-0 to Championship side Middlesbrough at the Riverside on Tuesday.

Chelsea boss Mauricio Pochettino bemoaned a familiar lack of cutting edge after his team lost the first leg of their League Cup semi-final 1-0 to Championship side Middlesbrough at the Riverside on Tuesday. Hayden Hackney scored the only goal on 38 minutes as Pochettino's expensively assembled array of stars again failed to perform away from home. Chelsea have lost five of their last six away games and 21 times on the road since the beginning of last season -- the most of any Premier League team. The Blues must turn the tie around when the sides meet again at Stamford Bridge on January 23 to avoid heaping more pressure on Pochettino's position during a disappointing first season in charge for the Argentine. "If we assess the performance overall we were the better side, had clear chances, but we didn't score and weren't clinical," said Pochettino. "It happened a lot this season." Boro boss Michael Carrick could have been forgiven for cursing his luck after losing top scorer Emmanuel Latte Lath to injury after just three minutes. Carrick was also forced to withdraw Alex Bangura inside 20 minutes but the second-tier side were not fazed. "It's very special," said the former Manchester United midfielder. "I know it's a two-legged affair and there is still all to play for, but for what we've had to go through, the injuries, the setbacks we've had, to beat a team of Chelsea's quality is unbelievable." Middlesbrough had not scored against Chelsea for over 17 years. The Blues had won the past nine meetings by an aggregate score of 21-0. However, the home side ended that drought eight minutes before half-time. The pace of Isaiah Jones down the right caused Chelsea's makeshift left-back Levi Colwill problems all night and his low cross was turned in by Hackney from close range. ALSO READ | Former South Africa player cites Virat Kohli's example to give Tests priority over T20 leagues Profligate Palmer Chelsea, though, should have at least been level at the break had Cole Palmer maintained his fine scoring form in front of goal. The former Manchester City academy graduate has been one of Chelsea's few big money signings to hit the ground running under Pochettino. However, Palmer twice failed to hit the target with glorious first-half chances. Firstly, he pulled his shot wide from the edge of the area after pouncing on an errant pass from Jonny Howson, and then he fired over the rebound after Tom Glover fumbled Enzo Fernandez's effort. Palmer then fired too close to Glover with another big chance just before the break. The flow of the second half was a different story as Chelsea pegged the home side back in search of an equaliser. But there was a familiarity to the visitors' inability to find a way through. Despite the club spending over £1 billion ($1.3 billion) on players in the last three transfer windows, Pochettino suggested last month he would need to look to strengthen once more in order to address the lack of a goal threat. Noni Madueke looked the most likely spark to Chelsea's attack, but he was sacrificed as Pochettino threw on Mykhailo Mudryk and Armando Broja. Raheem Sterling should have been more alive to meet one dangerous low cross from Broja, but that was all Chelsea's vast amount of possession in the final 20 minutes amounted to. Middlesbrough conceded late to lose 1-0 to Aston Villa in the FA Cup third round on Saturday. But this time the team that sit 12th in the Championship held out to keep their dreams of a Wembley final against either Liverpool or Fulham very much alive heading into the second leg.

League Cup: Middlesbrough stun Chelsea to take semifinal lead in first leg

Chelsea continued to make light of their off-pitch turmoil with another impressive display on it as they reached the FA Cup semi-finals with a 2-0 victory at Middlesbrough on Saturday.

First-half goals by Romelu Lukaku and Hakim Ziyech knocked the stuffing out of second-tier Middlesbrough who had eliminated Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur in previous rounds.

Lukaku tapped in Mason Mount's low cross after 15 minutes before Ziyech fired home 16 minutes later.

Middlesbrough were given raucous support inside the Riverside Stadium but never really looked capable of troubling the visitors who were always in control.

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Chelsea, the object of several buyout bids, are operating under a special licence from the British government after Russian owner Roman Abramovich was hit with sanctions following Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

Only a few hundred Chelsea fans were inside the stadium - a consequence of restrictions on them selling tickets - but they could at least celebrate their team reaching the semis for the fifth time in six seasons.

Since Abramovich announced that he was putting the European champions up for sale on March 2 after 19 trophy-laden years, it has been very much business as usual on the pitch.

They have won all six fixtures since, the latest win coming the day after a deadline for bids to buy the club.

Despite the distractions, manager Thomas Tuchel has remained focused on winning games, and the performance of his players on Saturday was clinical.

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"We were very focused and very serious. We showed the quality at decisive moments," the German said.

"The effort was huge and we never let them get a foot into the door after the two early goals. It was a deserved win."

"Nothing we can do will change the situation and we accept that it's not in our hands, but what is in our hands is setting an example and staying focused."

Chelsea had attracted criticism in midweek for asking for the match to be played without fans to ensure "sporting integrity" in light of them not being able to sell tickets.

They later retracted that request and the Riverside was rocking before kickoff. 
But when Mount was allowed to advance down the left and then delivered a slide rule cross to allow Lukaku to tap home, the odds always looked stacked against Boro.

When Ziyech's shot then flew past Middlesbrough keeper Joe Lumley the hosts had a mountain to climb.

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Chelsea could have added to their lead with Lukaku denied by a goalline clearance and Lumley doing well to keep out Timo Werner's late effort, while Boro rarely had a sniff of a chance.

It was Boro's first home defeat in 10 games in all competitions, and their focus will now return to trying to make the promotion play-offs.

For Chelsea, they are still chasing silverware on two fronts after reaching the Champions League quarter-finals in midweek.

"We really have that winning mentality within the group. Any competition, any game, we want to win, and we want to keep that going," Mount said. "It's been a tough couple of weeks but for us, as a team, we're just focused and ready to play."

Chelsea continued to make light of their off-pitch turmoil with another impressive display on it as they reached the FA Cup semi-finals with a 2-0 victory at Middlesbrough on Saturday.

Chelsea continued to make light of their off-pitch turmoil with another impressive display on it as they reached the FA Cup semi-finals with a 2-0 victory at Middlesbrough on Saturday. First-half goals by Romelu Lukaku and Hakim Ziyech knocked the stuffing out of second-tier Middlesbrough who had eliminated Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur in previous rounds. Lukaku tapped in Mason Mount's low cross after 15 minutes before Ziyech fired home 16 minutes later. Middlesbrough were given raucous support inside the Riverside Stadium but never really looked capable of troubling the visitors who were always in control. ALSO READ: ISL to have new winner as Kerala Blasters go up against Hyderabad FC in final Chelsea, the object of several buyout bids, are operating under a special licence from the British government after Russian owner Roman Abramovich was hit with sanctions following Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Only a few hundred Chelsea fans were inside the stadium - a consequence of restrictions on them selling tickets - but they could at least celebrate their team reaching the semis for the fifth time in six seasons. Since Abramovich announced that he was putting the European champions up for sale on March 2 after 19 trophy-laden years, it has been very much business as usual on the pitch. They have won all six fixtures since, the latest win coming the day after a deadline for bids to buy the club. Despite the distractions, manager Thomas Tuchel has remained focused on winning games, and the performance of his players on Saturday was clinical. ALSO READ: End of Roman Abramovich era! Three bids submitted for Chelsea as deadline passes "We were very focused and very serious. We showed the quality at decisive moments," the German said. "The effort was huge and we never let them get a foot into the door after the two early goals. It was a deserved win." "Nothing we can do will change the situation and we accept that it's not in our hands, but what is in our hands is setting an example and staying focused." Chelsea had attracted criticism in midweek for asking for the match to be played without fans to ensure "sporting integrity" in light of them not being able to sell tickets. They later retracted that request and the Riverside was rocking before kickoff. But when Mount was allowed to advance down the left and then delivered a slide rule cross to allow Lukaku to tap home, the odds always looked stacked against Boro. When Ziyech's shot then flew past Middlesbrough keeper Joe Lumley the hosts had a mountain to climb. ALSO READ: CAS upholds FIFA Council's decision to suspend all Russian teams and clubs Chelsea could have added to their lead with Lukaku denied by a goalline clearance and Lumley doing well to keep out Timo Werner's late effort, while Boro rarely had a sniff of a chance. It was Boro's first home defeat in 10 games in all competitions, and their focus will now return to trying to make the promotion play-offs. For Chelsea, they are still chasing silverware on two fronts after reaching the Champions League quarter-finals in midweek. "We really have that winning mentality within the group. Any competition, any game, we want to win, and we want to keep that going," Mount said. "It's been a tough couple of weeks but for us, as a team, we're just focused and ready to play."

FA Cup: Chelsea continue to ignore off-field turmoil with 2-0 win over Middlesbrough to enter semi-finals

Josh Coburn's strike in extra-time helped Middlesbrough defeat Tottenham Hotspur in the fifth round of FA Cup here at Riverside Stadium.

As a result of this 0-1 loss, Tottenham has been knocked out of the ongoing competition.

The 19-year-old Josh Coburn registered a deserved winner in the 107th minute of the game and as a result, Tottenham was sent out of the tournament.

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With this strike, Coburn became the first teenager to score in the FA Cup for Middlesbrough since Lee Cattermole scored against Manchester United in March 2007.

In the entire game, Tottenham had six shots on target while Middlesbrough had four.

In another contest, Manchester City defeated Peterborough 2-0 with goals coming from Riyad Mahrez and Jack Grealish.On the other hand, Crystal Palace defeated Stoke City 2-1.

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For Palace, Cheikhou Kouyate and Jairo Riedewald registered goals.

Josh Coburn's strike in extra-time helped Middlesbrough defeat Tottenham Hotspur in the fifth round of FA Cup here at Riverside Stadium. As a result of this 0-1 loss, Tottenham has been knocked out of the ongoing competition.

Josh Coburn's strike in extra-time helped Middlesbrough defeat Tottenham Hotspur in the fifth round of FA Cup here at Riverside Stadium. As a result of this 0-1 loss, Tottenham has been knocked out of the ongoing competition. The 19-year-old Josh Coburn registered a deserved winner in the 107th minute of the game and as a result, Tottenham was sent out of the tournament. ALSO READ: Adidas suspends partnership with Russian football union amid invasion of Ukraine With this strike, Coburn became the first teenager to score in the FA Cup for Middlesbrough since Lee Cattermole scored against Manchester United in March 2007. In the entire game, Tottenham had six shots on target while Middlesbrough had four. In another contest, Manchester City defeated Peterborough 2-0 with goals coming from Riyad Mahrez and Jack Grealish.On the other hand, Crystal Palace defeated Stoke City 2-1. ALSO READ: WATCH: Lionel Messi's flawless assists lead to Mbappe's twin strikes in PSG's win over Saint-Etienne For Palace, Cheikhou Kouyate and Jairo Riedewald registered goals.

Josh Coburn's strike helps Middlesbrough knock Tottenham Hotspur out of FA Cup

Manchester United were dumped out of the FA Cup fourth round by Championship side Middlesbrough 8-7 on penalties after wasting a sackful of chances in a 1-1 draw at Old Trafford on Friday.

Ralf Rangnick`s side dominated throughout but ultimately paid for their profligacy in a tense shoot-out when, after the first 15 penalties had all been converted, United youngster Anthony Elanga blazed over to send 9,000 Boro fans wild.

Jadon Sancho`s 25th-minute goal, shortly after Cristiano Ronaldo had missed a penalty, was scant reward for United`s superiority with Ronaldo and Marcus Rashford both culpable of failing to take golden chances.

Chris Wilder`s Boro kept themselves in the tie, however, and equalised in the 64th minute when former United youth player Matt Crooks converted from close range. Bruno Fernandes somehow struck the post with the goal gaping soon after that and United then battered away at Boro`s defence in extra time all to no avail.

Boro then showed incredible poise with their penalties to send the 12-time FA Cup winners tumbling out. 
It was a hammer blow for United who will wonder how they will not be in the hat for the fifth round after having 30 goal attempts to Boro`s six.

"Incredibly disappointed, we should have won and killed off the game in the first half," Rangnick said. 
"Crossbar, post, missed penalty and numerous chances. It should have been 2-0 or 3-0."

United almost took the lead in the opening minutes as Sancho clipped the top of the crossbar before Bruno Fernandes missed the target from close range. They then looked certain to go ahead when Boro`s Anfernee

Dijksteel clumsily brought down Paul Pogba to give Ronaldo the chance from the penalty spot. But the Portuguese stepped up and dragged his right-foot effort wide of the post.

When Sancho controlled a Fernandes pass and his angled shot took a slight deflection to beat Boro keeper Joe Lumley it appeared that United were in control.

But Ronaldo, who was having an off night, wasted a great chance when he shot straight at Lumley while Rashford had a goal disallowed and was twice denied by the keeper.

The pattern continued in the second half with Rashford volleying over from Sancho`s cut back and Ronaldo then clipping the side-netting with a snap shot. Boro began to grow in belief and levelled in slightly controversial circumstances.

Duncan Watmore controlled a lofted pass at the far post clearly with the aid of his arm and then lofted goalwards for Crooks to finish. A VAR check then allowed the goal to stand -- courtesy of a tweak to the handball rule this season.

Boro were energised and had chances to go ahead before United took charge again with Fernandes guilty of the worst miss of the night as he was presented with an unguarded goal after a defensive mix-up, but his shot clipped the outside of the post.

Elanga had the chance to win it deep into extra time but headed straight at Lumley and his wild penalty summed up a frustrating night for United but a memorable one for Middlesbrough who kicked off the FA Cup weekend in style.

"The FA Cup is alive and kicking, especially in Middlesbrough," said Wilder, whose Sheffield United team won at Old Trafford in the Premier League last season.

"I told the players it was all about making memories."

Manchester United were dumped out of the FA Cup fourth round by Championship side Middlesbrough 8-7 on penalties after wasting a sackful of chances in a 1-1 draw at Old Trafford on Friday.

Manchester United were dumped out of the FA Cup fourth round by Championship side Middlesbrough 8-7 on penalties after wasting a sackful of chances in a 1-1 draw at Old Trafford on Friday. Ralf Rangnick`s side dominated throughout but ultimately paid for their profligacy in a tense shoot-out when, after the first 15 penalties had all been converted, United youngster Anthony Elanga blazed over to send 9,000 Boro fans wild. Jadon Sancho`s 25th-minute goal, shortly after Cristiano Ronaldo had missed a penalty, was scant reward for United`s superiority with Ronaldo and Marcus Rashford both culpable of failing to take golden chances. Chris Wilder`s Boro kept themselves in the tie, however, and equalised in the 64th minute when former United youth player Matt Crooks converted from close range. Bruno Fernandes somehow struck the post with the goal gaping soon after that and United then battered away at Boro`s defence in extra time all to no avail. Boro then showed incredible poise with their penalties to send the 12-time FA Cup winners tumbling out. It was a hammer blow for United who will wonder how they will not be in the hat for the fifth round after having 30 goal attempts to Boro`s six. "Incredibly disappointed, we should have won and killed off the game in the first half," Rangnick said. "Crossbar, post, missed penalty and numerous chances. It should have been 2-0 or 3-0." United almost took the lead in the opening minutes as Sancho clipped the top of the crossbar before Bruno Fernandes missed the target from close range. They then looked certain to go ahead when Boro`s Anfernee Dijksteel clumsily brought down Paul Pogba to give Ronaldo the chance from the penalty spot. But the Portuguese stepped up and dragged his right-foot effort wide of the post. When Sancho controlled a Fernandes pass and his angled shot took a slight deflection to beat Boro keeper Joe Lumley it appeared that United were in control. But Ronaldo, who was having an off night, wasted a great chance when he shot straight at Lumley while Rashford had a goal disallowed and was twice denied by the keeper. The pattern continued in the second half with Rashford volleying over from Sancho`s cut back and Ronaldo then clipping the side-netting with a snap shot. Boro began to grow in belief and levelled in slightly controversial circumstances. Duncan Watmore controlled a lofted pass at the far post clearly with the aid of his arm and then lofted goalwards for Crooks to finish. A VAR check then allowed the goal to stand -- courtesy of a tweak to the handball rule this season. Boro were energised and had chances to go ahead before United took charge again with Fernandes guilty of the worst miss of the night as he was presented with an unguarded goal after a defensive mix-up, but his shot clipped the outside of the post. Elanga had the chance to win it deep into extra time but headed straight at Lumley and his wild penalty summed up a frustrating night for United but a memorable one for Middlesbrough who kicked off the FA Cup weekend in style. "The FA Cup is alive and kicking, especially in Middlesbrough," said Wilder, whose Sheffield United team won at Old Trafford in the Premier League last season. "I told the players it was all about making memories."

Manchester United dumped out of FA Cup after shock 4th-round defeat against Middlesbrough

Chelsea manager Antonio Conte said his side were &quot;another little step&quot; from the Premier League title after they crushed Middlesbrough 3-0 to move to within touching distance of glory.

Tottenham Hotspur&#39;s surprise defeat at West Ham United last week handed Chelsea the initiative and they can now seal a second title triumph in three years if they win at West Bromwich Albion on Friday.

&quot;We&#39;re very close. We must be honest. But we need to do another little step and win another game,&quot; Conte told reporters after Monday&#39;s match, which condemned Middlesbrough to relegation.

&quot;For sure now I&#39;m a bit relaxed. This step was big for us, a big win.

&quot;Now we need to do another step. We have the possibility to do this on Friday against West Brom.

&quot;For sure it won&#39;t be easy, because West Brom is a really good team, a physical team, and we must pay great attention.

&quot;We are very close, but we need another step to become champions of the Premier League, which would be a fantastic achievement for us.&quot;

While victory at West Brom will deliver the title, Chelsea also have home games against Watford and Sunderland in which to snare the three points they need to make it across the finish line.

Cesc Fabregas was Chelsea&#39;s match-winner, inventively creating goals for Diego Costa and Nemanja Matic either side of half-time at a festive Stamford Bridge.

Marcos Alonso also found the net in the first half.

Fabregas began the season on the bench after new signing N&#39;Golo Kante took his place, but he has played an increasingly prominent role in recent weeks.

&quot;Cesc is one of the best examples of our season,&quot; Conte said.

&quot;Because in this season, Cesc at the start didn&#39;t play a lot. And then through hard work, he improved a lot. And then he&#39;s playing in every game.

&quot;This development of Cesc is our development, because we started the season with a lot of problems. But through hard work, together we found the right way.

&quot;Cesc is showing (himself) to be a fantastic player and I&#39;m pleased for him. Because I saw in this season that he put himself in this team in every moment, if he played or didn&#39;t play. Now he&#39;s deserving this.&quot;

Boro &#39;devastated&#39; 
Needing victory to stand a realistic chance of preserving their top-flight status, Boro succumbed to a defeat that sent them into the Championship alongside northeast rivals Sunderland.

Conte made a point of saluting Boro&#39;s travelling fans after the game.

&quot;It&#39;s great to see a team that got relegated and to see the fans clapping the players and the players staying there to receive the applause and to clap the fans,&quot; said the Italian.

&quot;It&#39;s important to celebrate your win, but also to have great respect and clap this type of situation.

&quot;Because I think this situation happens only in England. In Italy it&#39;s very, very difficult to see a team getting relegated and the players receive (applause).&quot;

Boro manager Steve Agnew said his dressing room was &quot;devastated&quot;.

&quot;We&#39;ve worked so hard for a number of years to get back into the Premier League and we know how tough the Premier League is,&quot; he said. &quot;Obviously we&#39;ve come up short.&quot;

Agnew, who took over in a caretaker capacity after Aitor Karanka was sacked in March, would not be drawn on whether he would like the role on a permanent basis.

&quot;I don&#39;t think it&#39;s about my situation. It&#39;s about the football club,&quot; he said.

&quot;We all know it&#39;s a Premier League football club in terms of everything about it &ndash;- the supporters, the stadium, the training ground. The infrastructure is all there.

&quot;So we have to finish the season strong. We have two games to go. We need to gain more points.

&quot;And then everything moving forward will be towards getting Middlesbrough Football Club back into the Premier League as soon as possible.&quot;

(AFP)

Chelsea beat Middlesbrough 3-0 Monday to move to within touching distance of glory

Chelsea manager Antonio Conte said his side were "another little step" from the Premier League title after they crushed Middlesbrough 3-0 to move to within touching distance of glory. Tottenham Hotspur's surprise defeat at West Ham United last week handed Chelsea the initiative and they can now seal a second title triumph in three years if they win at West Bromwich Albion on Friday. "We're very close. We must be honest. But we need to do another little step and win another game," Conte told reporters after Monday's match, which condemned Middlesbrough to relegation. "For sure now I'm a bit relaxed. This step was big for us, a big win. "Now we need to do another step. We have the possibility to do this on Friday against West Brom. "For sure it won't be easy, because West Brom is a really good team, a physical team, and we must pay great attention. "We are very close, but we need another step to become champions of the Premier League, which would be a fantastic achievement for us." While victory at West Brom will deliver the title, Chelsea also have home games against Watford and Sunderland in which to snare the three points they need to make it across the finish line. Cesc Fabregas was Chelsea's match-winner, inventively creating goals for Diego Costa and Nemanja Matic either side of half-time at a festive Stamford Bridge. Marcos Alonso also found the net in the first half. Fabregas began the season on the bench after new signing N'Golo Kante took his place, but he has played an increasingly prominent role in recent weeks. "Cesc is one of the best examples of our season," Conte said. "Because in this season, Cesc at the start didn't play a lot. And then through hard work, he improved a lot. And then he's playing in every game. "This development of Cesc is our development, because we started the season with a lot of problems. But through hard work, together we found the right way. "Cesc is showing (himself) to be a fantastic player and I'm pleased for him. Because I saw in this season that he put himself in this team in every moment, if he played or didn't play. Now he's deserving this." Boro 'devastated' Needing victory to stand a realistic chance of preserving their top-flight status, Boro succumbed to a defeat that sent them into the Championship alongside northeast rivals Sunderland. Conte made a point of saluting Boro's travelling fans after the game. "It's great to see a team that got relegated and to see the fans clapping the players and the players staying there to receive the applause and to clap the fans," said the Italian. "It's important to celebrate your win, but also to have great respect and clap this type of situation. "Because I think this situation happens only in England. In Italy it's very, very difficult to see a team getting relegated and the players receive (applause)." Boro manager Steve Agnew said his dressing room was "devastated". "We've worked so hard for a number of years to get back into the Premier League and we know how tough the Premier League is," he said. "Obviously we've come up short." Agnew, who took over in a caretaker capacity after Aitor Karanka was sacked in March, would not be drawn on whether he would like the role on a permanent basis. "I don't think it's about my situation. It's about the football club," he said. "We all know it's a Premier League football club in terms of everything about it –- the supporters, the stadium, the training ground. The infrastructure is all there. "So we have to finish the season strong. We have two games to go. We need to gain more points. "And then everything moving forward will be towards getting Middlesbrough Football Club back into the Premier League as soon as possible." (AFP)

Chelsea one 'little step' from Premier League title: Conte

Goals from Alexis Sanchez and Mesut Ozil ended Arsenal&#39;s run of four successive away defeats with a scratchy 2-1 victory over struggling Middlesbrough in their Premier League clash on Monday.

The Gunners&#39; performance was far from convincing but will still bring some relief to their beleaguered manager Arsene Wenger.

There was a period after Alvaro Negredo scored an equaliser when Middlesbrough, who have won only four league games this season, looked capable of going on to claim their fifth scalp.

Arsenal are now seven points behind fourth-placed Manchester City with a game in hand, while Middlesbrough lie six points from safety and have also played one game fewer than most of the teams above them.

At least Arsenal&rsquo;s trip to Teesside began far more smoothly than their previous away game at Crystal Palace when they were caught in London traffic and arrived shortly before the kick-off.

They reached Middlesbrough&rsquo;s Riverside Stadium with plenty of time to spare, yet there was still a lack of direction on the pitch as they searched for a route to goal in the opening stages.

Wenger had made the sort of selection decisions that he usually reserves for cup ties against teams from lower divisions.

The French manager announced six changes from the team that lost 3-0 at Palace seven days earlier and, even more significantly, employed wing-backs alongside a defensive trio for the first time since 1997.

His tactical alterations did not provide instant results, although they did enjoy the bulk of the early possession and Olivier Giroud&#39;s claims for a penalty when he was floored by Daniel Ayala certainly had some merit.

Arsenal&rsquo;s attacking difficulties were not unexpected because Middlesbrough went into the game after conceding only 37 goals -- two fewer than Wenger&rsquo;s under-performing side.

Deadlock broken

Marten de Roon headed past the Arsenal goalkeeper Petr Cech midway through the opening half, but was offside -- Middlesbrough were unimaginative and with 42 minutes gone, they were behind.

A foul by Adam Clayton on the edge of the area was a gift for Sanchez, the Chilean star flighted his free-kick over the wall and inside the post.

It was his 19th Premier League goal of the season and only three fewer than the entire Middlesbrough team going into this game, so it was a surprise that the home side suddenly looked capable of producing a response in the second half.

Middlesbrough were immediately on the front foot and levelled inside five minutes after Sanchez lost possession.

The hosts broke quickly down the right through Stewart Downing, whose cross was missed by Laurent Koscielny before Negredo steered it past Cech.

Suddenly, the game burst into life, with Downing heavily involved. The former England winger wasted an excellent opportunity when George Friend&#39;s cross was allowed to reach him at the far post, then the pair combined again to carve out a chance for Ayala.

Downing&#39;s cross was headed back towards goal by Friend and Ayala looked certain to score before he directed his header too close to Cech.

Arsenal&#39;s response was impressive in the 63rd minute as Sanchez&#39;s through ball picked out Ozil, but goalkeeper Brad Guzan sensed the danger and did well to save at the feet of the German international.

However, the outcome was different in their next confrontation eight minutes later.

Sanchez was involved again with a cross that was chested down by Aaron Ramsey, leaving Ozil with the chance to drill Arsenal back in front from close range.

(AFP)

The Gunners' performance was far from convincing but will still bring some relief to their beleaguered manager Arsene Wenger

Goals from Alexis Sanchez and Mesut Ozil ended Arsenal's run of four successive away defeats with a scratchy 2-1 victory over struggling Middlesbrough in their Premier League clash on Monday. The Gunners' performance was far from convincing but will still bring some relief to their beleaguered manager Arsene Wenger. There was a period after Alvaro Negredo scored an equaliser when Middlesbrough, who have won only four league games this season, looked capable of going on to claim their fifth scalp. Arsenal are now seven points behind fourth-placed Manchester City with a game in hand, while Middlesbrough lie six points from safety and have also played one game fewer than most of the teams above them. At least Arsenal’s trip to Teesside began far more smoothly than their previous away game at Crystal Palace when they were caught in London traffic and arrived shortly before the kick-off. They reached Middlesbrough’s Riverside Stadium with plenty of time to spare, yet there was still a lack of direction on the pitch as they searched for a route to goal in the opening stages. Wenger had made the sort of selection decisions that he usually reserves for cup ties against teams from lower divisions. The French manager announced six changes from the team that lost 3-0 at Palace seven days earlier and, even more significantly, employed wing-backs alongside a defensive trio for the first time since 1997. His tactical alterations did not provide instant results, although they did enjoy the bulk of the early possession and Olivier Giroud's claims for a penalty when he was floored by Daniel Ayala certainly had some merit. Arsenal’s attacking difficulties were not unexpected because Middlesbrough went into the game after conceding only 37 goals -- two fewer than Wenger’s under-performing side. Deadlock broken Marten de Roon headed past the Arsenal goalkeeper Petr Cech midway through the opening half, but was offside -- Middlesbrough were unimaginative and with 42 minutes gone, they were behind. A foul by Adam Clayton on the edge of the area was a gift for Sanchez, the Chilean star flighted his free-kick over the wall and inside the post. It was his 19th Premier League goal of the season and only three fewer than the entire Middlesbrough team going into this game, so it was a surprise that the home side suddenly looked capable of producing a response in the second half. Middlesbrough were immediately on the front foot and levelled inside five minutes after Sanchez lost possession. The hosts broke quickly down the right through Stewart Downing, whose cross was missed by Laurent Koscielny before Negredo steered it past Cech. Suddenly, the game burst into life, with Downing heavily involved. The former England winger wasted an excellent opportunity when George Friend's cross was allowed to reach him at the far post, then the pair combined again to carve out a chance for Ayala. Downing's cross was headed back towards goal by Friend and Ayala looked certain to score before he directed his header too close to Cech. Arsenal's response was impressive in the 63rd minute as Sanchez's through ball picked out Ozil, but goalkeeper Brad Guzan sensed the danger and did well to save at the feet of the German international. However, the outcome was different in their next confrontation eight minutes later. Sanchez was involved again with a cross that was chested down by Aaron Ramsey, leaving Ozil with the chance to drill Arsenal back in front from close range. (AFP)

Premier League: Sanchez, Ozil secure 2-1 win for Arsenal over Middlesbrough

David Silva and Sergio Aguero scored in each half as Manchester City became the first team to reach the FA Cup semi-finals with a comfortable 2-0 win at Premier League rivals Middlesbrough on Saturday.

A dominant City cruised into the last four after Silva gave them a third-minute lead and Aguero struck in the 67th minute, with the visitors missing numerous chances to win by a bigger margin.

Pep Guardiola&#39;s attacking formation, featuring Silva, Raheem Sterling, Kevin De Bruyne and Leroy Sane behind Aguero, paid instant dividends as City carved open the home team&#39;s defence.

Yaya Toure fed Pablo Zabaleta on the right flank with a defence-splitting pass and the Argentine defender drove a perfect ball across the face of goal for Silva to shoot home from close range.

Middlesbrough kept getting undone on either wing as Sane and Silva gave their markers a roasting and the home team&#39;s goalkeeper Brad Guzan made a string of good saves.

Aguero hit the woodwork after another lightning raid down the right but made no mistake when he steered a first-time shot past the helpless Guzan at the near post from a fizzing low cross by Sane.

City threatened to run riot in the closing stages as acres of space opened up, but Guzan spared the home side a heavier defeat by denying Sterling and Silva.

Arsenal host non-league Lincoln City later on Saturday. 
 
(Reuters)

Pep Guardiola's attacking formation, featuring Silva, Raheem Sterling, Kevin De Bruyne and Leroy Sane behind Aguero, paid instant dividends

David Silva and Sergio Aguero scored in each half as Manchester City became the first team to reach the FA Cup semi-finals with a comfortable 2-0 win at Premier League rivals Middlesbrough on Saturday. A dominant City cruised into the last four after Silva gave them a third-minute lead and Aguero struck in the 67th minute, with the visitors missing numerous chances to win by a bigger margin. Pep Guardiola's attacking formation, featuring Silva, Raheem Sterling, Kevin De Bruyne and Leroy Sane behind Aguero, paid instant dividends as City carved open the home team's defence. Yaya Toure fed Pablo Zabaleta on the right flank with a defence-splitting pass and the Argentine defender drove a perfect ball across the face of goal for Silva to shoot home from close range. Middlesbrough kept getting undone on either wing as Sane and Silva gave their markers a roasting and the home team's goalkeeper Brad Guzan made a string of good saves. Aguero hit the woodwork after another lightning raid down the right but made no mistake when he steered a first-time shot past the helpless Guzan at the near post from a fizzing low cross by Sane. City threatened to run riot in the closing stages as acres of space opened up, but Guzan spared the home side a heavier defeat by denying Sterling and Silva. Arsenal host non-league Lincoln City later on Saturday. (Reuters)

Manchester City ease into FA Cup semis with 2-0 win at Middlesbrough

An 81st-minute Gareth McAuley goal prevented Liverpool from provisionally going top in the Premier League as they defeated West Bromwich Albion 2-1 on Saturday.

Needing a two-goal win to move above leaders Arsenal, Liverpool took a 2-0 lead through Sadio Mane and Philippe Coutinho, but McAuley&#39;s strike left them in second place on goal difference.

&quot;I&#39;m really pleased with the performance,&quot; Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp told Sky Sports. &quot;It was unbelievably difficult against West Brom. You have to always concentrate. They are so dangerous at set-pieces. But I think it would have been kind of a joke if we hadn&#39;t won today. It was unbelievable, how we played.&quot;

Klopp made one change to the Liverpool team held 0-0 by United last Monday, with the fit-again Adam Lallana returning to the starting XI at the expense of Daniel Sturridge.

Arsenal had earlier been held to a 0-0 draw by Middlesbrough. Arsenal, 6-0 winners over Ludogorets Razgrad in the Champions League in mid-week, were seeking an eighth successive win in all competitions.

But Middlesbrough came closest to breaking the deadlock in the first half at the Emirates Stadium when Gaston Ramirez curled a 21st-minute free-kick against the post.

Arsenal dominated the second half, but had goalkeeper Petr Cech to thank for ensuring the visitors&#39; counter-attacks came to nought.

Fourth-place Tottenham Hotspur too played out a goalless stalemate at Bournemouth. Both teams hit the woodwork in the early stages, Spurs goalkeeper Hugo Lloris diverting Charlie Daniels&#39;s shot onto the bar and Erik Lamela clipping the post from distance.

Tottenham extended their unbeaten start to the season to nine games. &quot;We had control, but we didn&#39;t create enough chances to score,&quot; said Spurs manager Mauricio Pochettino. &quot;I think we need to be pleased in the end because it&#39;s one point more, one clean sheet, but it&#39;s true for us to be contenders we should be winning the games like today.&quot;

Pep Guardiola&#39;s Manchester City can reclaim first place by avoiding defeat at home to Southampton on Sunday, when Jose Mourinho makes his return to Chelsea with Manchester United.

(AFP) 
&nbsp;

Liverpool, which needed a two-goal win to replace leaders Arsenal, missed out on goal difference

An 81st-minute Gareth McAuley goal prevented Liverpool from provisionally going top in the Premier League as they defeated West Bromwich Albion 2-1 on Saturday. Needing a two-goal win to move above leaders Arsenal, Liverpool took a 2-0 lead through Sadio Mane and Philippe Coutinho, but McAuley's strike left them in second place on goal difference. "I'm really pleased with the performance," Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp told Sky Sports. "It was unbelievably difficult against West Brom. You have to always concentrate. They are so dangerous at set-pieces. But I think it would have been kind of a joke if we hadn't won today. It was unbelievable, how we played." Klopp made one change to the Liverpool team held 0-0 by United last Monday, with the fit-again Adam Lallana returning to the starting XI at the expense of Daniel Sturridge. Arsenal had earlier been held to a 0-0 draw by Middlesbrough. Arsenal, 6-0 winners over Ludogorets Razgrad in the Champions League in mid-week, were seeking an eighth successive win in all competitions. But Middlesbrough came closest to breaking the deadlock in the first half at the Emirates Stadium when Gaston Ramirez curled a 21st-minute free-kick against the post. Arsenal dominated the second half, but had goalkeeper Petr Cech to thank for ensuring the visitors' counter-attacks came to nought. Fourth-place Tottenham Hotspur too played out a goalless stalemate at Bournemouth. Both teams hit the woodwork in the early stages, Spurs goalkeeper Hugo Lloris diverting Charlie Daniels's shot onto the bar and Erik Lamela clipping the post from distance. Tottenham extended their unbeaten start to the season to nine games. "We had control, but we didn't create enough chances to score," said Spurs manager Mauricio Pochettino. "I think we need to be pleased in the end because it's one point more, one clean sheet, but it's true for us to be contenders we should be winning the games like today." Pep Guardiola's Manchester City can reclaim first place by avoiding defeat at home to Southampton on Sunday, when Jose Mourinho makes his return to Chelsea with Manchester United. (AFP)

English Premier League: Liverpool climb to second spot as Arsenal, Tottenham Hotspur misfire

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