Middlesbrough came from behind three times on Tuesday evening against League Two Notts County to draw level at 3-3, before winning the game on penalties.
Middlesbrough’s goals came from Ashley Fletcher and debutant Enes Mahmutovic, but the game was taken to penalties at 3-3 with Jon Stead and Tom Crawford scoring for the away side.
The performance was seen as positive by plenty of Middlesbrough fans, with four players given debuts in the starting eleven, and a further three debutants coming on from the bench.
The game ended with seven academy players on the pitch for Boro, with one of them being 16-year old Nathan Wood, who became the club’s youngest ever player, and the first footballer in England born in 2002 to play a competitive game.
Thoroughly enjoyed last night, Everyone associated with our Academy should hold their heads up high, some absolute talent coming through..Brilliant..#UTB
— Maly James🇺🇦 (@Smogg74) August 15, 2018
Well done Boro last night. A good crowd to see the *kids* play, a three time fight back, and a thrilling penalty shoot out. Congrats to Nathan Wood too for becoming the youngest to play for the first team. #UTB
— DaveD 💙 (@DD_Photos) August 15, 2018
This Boro fan made a few points about the game, pointing towards Stephen Walker, who impressed on his debut setting up the home sides’ third equaliser, as well as singling out Nathan Wood and Mahmutovic.
– Lonergan where did the mobility for the pens come from? Could have showed it in the 90
– Fletcher, I like him, happy for him, confidence grew
– McGinley, doubt he's a left back?
– Mahmutovic, pure unit#utb #borolive— Mal (@TheRedCritic) August 15, 2018
Another supporter was quick to point out Walker, saying that his performance could merit a push for the first team.
@Ste_Walker9 class stuff tonight mate should be proud of yourself and hope you get a regular spot! 🔴⚪️👌🏼 #UTB
— Joe Stewart (@JoeStewart1989) August 14, 2018
Along with Mahmutovic, Walker and Wood, youngster Djed Spence made his first appearance in a Middlesbrough shirt. The defender signed in the summer from Fulham to play with the under-23 side, but he was another player who showed promise in the Carabao Cup on Tuesday.
Middlesbrough are struggling at full-back with only Ryan Shotton and George Friend at the club in the first team.
Enjoyed the @Boro match tonight. Great to see so many young players involved. Like the look of @DjedSpence in particular. Kept things simple and looks the part #UTB
— Kath25 (@kathleitch) August 14, 2018
The Teessiders will find out their opponents for the second round on Thursday evening, with the tie played on the week of Monday 27th August.
