A BRACE from Norway striker Jan Fjortoft and a goal on his Premiership debut by Chris Freestone dispelled any lingering relegation doubts still held by Bryan Robson's men.
Middlesbrough deserved their success after an entertaining second half display which was a complete contrast to the lack lustre, goalless first period.
The game sprang to life after the restart, Fjortoft putting Boro ahead after 54 minutes. Wednesday goalkeeper Kevin Pressman could only parry man of the match Juninho's shot and Fjortoft pounced to turn in the rebound.
Wednesday hit back immediately when Welsh international midfielder Mark Pembridge fired in a shot from 30 yards which took a cruel deflection.
Fjortoft shot into the corner after Juninho and Freest one had combined in the 67th minute.
The £4.75 million Brazilian ineffective in the first half, sparkled after the break. It was his corner which was headed on by Nigel Pearson for Freestone to mark his debut by making it 3-1.
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