Middlesbrough’s 3-3 draw with Sunderland had everything. Goals, red cards and late, late drama saw the sides play out one of the most entertaining games of the season. Here are five things we learned from the game.
1. Patrick Bamford as a lone-striker
Bamford enjoyed his best ever spell in football at Middlesbrough under Aitor Karanka in 2014/15. He scored 17 goals and picked up the Championship player of the year award.
In this season he played predominantly as a lone-front man, playing ahead of Kike Garcia, and with Jelle Vossen playing the number 10 role in behind Bamford.
On Saturday, Bamford was again occupying the left flank as he has done for most of the season. But after getting his first goal, was moved to play up front, with Assombalonga being substituted.
Bamford got his second not long after, and looked the most assured striker Middlesbrough have had since Pulis took control.