Middlesbrough 0 Liverpool 0

Last updated : 22 November 2003 By Footymad Previewer

Middlesbrough manger Steve McClaren reflected on the changing fortunes of his team after a hard-fought game.

Early in the season Boro leaked goals left, right and centre, with fans worried over the prospect of a relegation battle.

The tide has turned however and McClaren spoke with pride of four clean sheets in successive Premiership games.

McClaren said: "It was good performance against a very good Liverpool team. It continues our revival.

"We are trying to build on the fact that when the teams come to play at Middlesbrough they know they are in for a hard game." Middlesbrough fans thought the home side deserved a first-half penalty but action replays showed Djimi Traore had a made brilliant tackle.

Despite the fast pace and commitment of both teams, there were surprisingly few shots at goal. Neither goalkeeper was stretched in the 90 minutes.

Middlesbrough have tightened up in defence but there is still a lack of goal threat up front.

McClaren, however, had a word of praise for Michael Ricketts, who has struggled for form and fitness this season.

Reds boss Gerard Houllier was relieved that England striker Michael Owen got through 67 minutes of action without any injury scare.

Owen looked a subdued figured after his lay-off, but at least he can build up his match fitness.

Liverpool substitute Florent Sinama Pongolle had the chance to be a matchwinning hero within two minutes of his second-half introduction.

With his first touch of the ball, the French Under-21 international shot over the bar from close range.