George Boateng lost the plot just before half-time when he flung an arm after a rash tackle from Moutinho in midfield. The Teessiders were already 1-0 behind at this stage against sharper opposition.
Boateng's removal also meant Boro had to take off Hasselbaink and resort to a more defensive formation. He was replaced by Doriva at half-time. Leaving Yakuba isolated up front in the second half.
Boro crumbled in the last 15 minutes, conceding three and there was not a lot of positives to take from the night. Possibly losing Boateng for the start of next season was the last thing needed from this encounter.
Boro Team:
Schwarzer, Paranaby (Bates 62), Southgate, Ehiogu, Queuedrue, Parlour, (Cattermole 80), Mendieta, Boateng, Hasselbaink (Doriva 46), Yakubu, Downing (Johnson 85)