It's four-midable as Boro end a miserable run of poor results

MIDDLESBROUGH ended their four-match winless run in emphatic fashion as they beat Southampton 4-0 at the Riverside after a superb second-half display.

- By CRAIG JOHNS

Morgan Whittaker scored twice and goals from Sammy Silvera and Alan Browne, all of which came in a superb second-half performance, ensured that Boro returned to winning ways in some style.

Kim Hellberg had assured that the manner of performances over the last four games offered him encouragement that their luck would turn. After another unconvincing first-half, something the Swede said at the interval worked.

Hellberg made two changes to his side as Adilson Malanda came in for what ended up being a hugely impressive debut, while Silvera was also restored to the starting lineup. Callum Brittain and Kaly Sene both dropped out altogether, but there was one injury boost in the form of Dael Fry’s return to the bench.

But Boro's luck on the injury front shows no signs of easing. Just three minutes into the game, Alex Bangura sat down off the ball and looked in serious discomfort. Another reshuffle required as Alan Browne came on at right-back, with Luke Ayling back into the middle.

Despite that, Boro started positively. Pressing hard and playing some nice interchanging football up to and into the final third, they were still struggling for an ounce of conviction when they got in front of goal.