Middlesbrough got themselves back to winning ways with a 3-0 victory over Derby County on Wednesday night.

Neil Warnock took the opportunity to give Patrick Roberts an overdue start, while also handing a debut to Duncan Watmore.

However it was the recalled captain, Britt Assombalonga, who led by example after having an early effort parried wide by David Marshall.

The Rams also had opportunities in a cagey first half as Kamil Jozwiak had an effort cleared off the line, before Max Bird missed the target with a curling effort from range.

But Assombalonga clicked into gear before the break after converting from close range following good work from Jonny Howson and Watmore.

He had two more opportunities to extend the lead as well but both efforts went just wide of the mark.

Louie Sibley was introduced at the break for Derby and caused plenty of problem, but it was always Middlesbrough who looked more likely to get a goal as Marcus Tavernier and George Saville went close.

The home side took control of the game midway through the second half when Marvin Johnson's cross was inadvertently converted by Matt Clarke who doubled Boro's lead.

But Johnson was able to enjoy his own moment in the spotlight after lashing an effort into the top corner to put the result beyond doubt.

Djed Spence almost turned it into a rout when he fired a fierce right-footed effort at goal only to be saved by Marshall.

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