Middlesbrough announced the loan signing of West Ham United striker Jordan Hugill earlier in the transfer window, and he got off the mark in his first game for the club.
Albeit in a behind closed doors friendly match, Jordan Hugill netted his first goal for Middlesbrough this afternoon, against local rivals Hartlepool.
Hugill was in the starting eleven which featured many players on the peripheries of the first team squad, along with regulars who are making their way back to full-fitness. Dimi Konstantopoulos and Andy Lonergan shared the goalkeeping role in the first half, and Dani Ayala, Paddy McNair, Grant Leadbitter and Marvin Johnson also all started the game.
Hugill started up front with Ashley Fletcher, who is reportedly wanted by Championship rivals Hull City, and the pair instantly caused havoc for the Pools defence.
Boro’s new signing hit the woodwork early in the game, but it was Hartlepool that took a surprise lead. Pools’ advantage only lasted 15 minutes however, when Paddy McNair’s cross was diverted into the net off a Hartlepool defender to draw the sides level.
With the score at 1-1 Hugill again his the woodwork, along with Ashley Fletcher. But it wasn’t long before the pair combined to open Hugill’s account in a red and white shirt. Marcus Tavernier worked hard on the wing to pick out Fletcher in the box, but when the striker’s initial shot was blocked on the line, Hugill was on hand to tap home the rebound.
The game ended 4-1 to Middlesbrough with Tyrone O’Neill and Stephen Walker securing the victory with two second half goals.
