Keeping emotions in check key to run-in Carrick

MICHAEL Carrick moved to clarify his recent comments playing down the significance of Middlesbrough's recent win over Plymouth Argyle.

- By CRAIG JOHNS [e-mail] @craig_johns

Many supporters voiced concerns that he dismissed the notion that the game against Plymouth on Friday was a 'must-win, with Boro trailing the top-six by three points with just four games to go.

While mathematically he was correct, many feel Boro will need an almost perfect run-in to have a chance of leapfrogging Coventry City or Bristol City into the play-off spots come the end of the season.

As it happened, Boro did go on to get the win at the Riverside, and it proved important as both Coventry and Bristol City also won.

With little change for Boro in the play-off race other than one game fewer to play, Carrick insisted his side understand the significance of each game, but must do everything they can to manage their emotions.