Middlesbrough FC

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• Manager:Tony Mowbray

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Response pleases Southgate

27 Oct 2008 - 11:19:06

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Blackburn's late equaliser upset Gareth Southgate but the Middlesbrough manager was pleased with his side's character as they bounced back well from a woeful display the previous weekend against Chelsea.

Benni McCarthy's last-gasp goal ensured the points were shared at Ewood Park, but Southgate found it hard to criticise his players.

He said: "It's always painful but I think we've restored some pride after last week and every point in this league is important.

"It was a healthy away performance and there were lots of positives.

"Afonso (Alves) was quiet up to his goal but that's what he's capable of. He's off and running now and that will give him a huge lift.

"We had to respond in the right way. There's still lots to improve upon but we were a lot more resilient and hard to break down.

"There were some excellent individual performances, Jeremie Aliadiere in particular worked his socks off.

"We've got to keep working hard and things will turn. There's still more to come from us but it was good to have some players back in.

"We haven't defended the corner at the end and it's a harsh lesson for us but as manager I can't ask any more."