Middlesbrough kicked off their Championship campaign with a dramatic 2-1 comeback win over promoted Lincoln City, ending the Imps' remarkable 29-game unbeaten run. Will Lankshear, the former Tottenham forward, marked his debut with a second-half brace to secure the victory for the Riverside side.
How did Middlesbrough turn the game around?
Lincoln took an early lead through Adam Reach's 12th-minute strike, but Lankshear equalized just after the hour mark. The 22-year-old then popped up in stoppage time to stab home the winner, leaving the Imps stunned. Middlesbrough, who finished 5th last season with 72 points, showed resilience to claim all three points in their opener.
What does this mean for Middlesbrough's season?
The win is a positive start for Middlesbrough as they look to build on their 2025 campaign, where they scored 62 goals and conceded 42. Finishing 14 points behind leaders Coventry, they'll be aiming for a stronger push this season. Their next fixture is against Birmingham at home on February 20, 2027.
Who stood out for Middlesbrough?
Lankshear was the standout performer, becoming the first Middlesbrough player to score twice on his debut since 2018. His clinical finishing and movement caused problems for Lincoln's defence, while the team's defensive solidity in the second half was crucial in securing the win.
