Boro struggled to create a clear cut opening in the first half, in a game that was played in the middle of the park. Szilard Nemeth came closest with a shot from the corner of the penalty box, which was easily saved by Nigel Martyn.
The half will be remembered for the 15-man brawl that ensued after Thomas Gravesen unfairly challenged Chris Riggott. George Boateng going into the referees book along with Gravesen.
Everton won the game within minutes of the restart, a long ball forward found Marcus Bent, who outpaced Garteh Southgate, and the former Ipswich striker chipped the ball, with the aid of a deflection, over the advancing Mark Schwarzer.
Boro rallied in the final quarter of the game, but tried in vain to get an equaliser. Substitute Joseph Desire Job brought a fine save from Martyn, but that was as close as Boro came.
Steve McClaren will be disappointed not to get something out of the game, Boro were not at their best. Europe cannot become as excuse for dropping valuable league points.