ENGLISH LEAGUE CHAMPIONSHIP: Middlesborough 0 Sheffield United 0MIDDLESBROUGH'S BID to make an instant return to the Premier League got off to an inauspicious start last night as they were held to a goalless draw at the Riverside in the first game of the season.
Gareth Southgate’s revamped side were unable to find their way past last season’s play-off final losers in front of close to 24,000.
With Turkey striker Tuncay Sanli, who is expected to leave before the transfer window shuts at the end of the month, left out through illness, Southgate started three debutants, with opposite number Kevin Blackwell naming four in his.
Neither side were able to make an impact as defences remained on top, with Boro’s David Wheater and United’s Matt Kilgallon particularly impressive.
Despite the industry of winger Mark Yeates, comfortably his side’s best player, Boro were unable to make anything out of their late possession.
MIDDLESBROUGH:Coyne, McMahon, Wheater, Huth, Grounds, Yeates, Williams, Digard (O'Neil 42), Adam Johnson, Aliadiere, Emnes (Lita 65). Subs not used: Steele, Hoyte, Taylor, Arca, Franks. Booked: Williams.
SHEFFIELD UNITED:Bunn, Walker, Morgan, Kilgallon, Taylor, Howard (Evans 68), Quinn, Montgomery, France, Henderson, Treacy (Cotterill 63). Subs not used: Bennett, Reid, Bromby, Sharp, Little.
Referee:L Mason (Lancashire).
