Middlesbrough FC

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Victory joy for Boro boss

24 Aug 2006 - 08:26:16

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Gareth Southgate was a happy man after seeing his Middlesbrough side win their first game under his charge, seeing off champions Chelsea 2-1 at the Riverside.

Late goals from Emanuel Pogatetz and Mark Viduka earned Boro all three points and ensured a repeat of last season's league victory at home to the Blues.

Southgate said afterwards: "To say relieved would be an understatement, I think.

"The response of the lads to what happened to them at the weekend was fantastic.

"To come from a goal behind at half-time against any side is an achievement, but against a side of that quality showed terrific character. They played ever so well and I am just very proud of them.

"Because it's the first one, then of course it's very pleasing, and the manner of it, coming from behind, was very special.

"Thankfully, we did not have too long to have to hold on."