Middlesbrough inflict early heartbreak on newly-promoted Lincoln as Championship back with a bang. New signing Will Lankshear scored twice, including a late winner, as Boro began their promotion push with a dramatic win. League standing (final 2025 table -- new season not yet under way): 5th in Championship, 72 pts, 20W-12D-10L from 42 games, recent form LDLDD. Goals this season: 62 scored, 42 conceded (+20 goal difference). Title race: 14 points behind leaders Coventry.
What happened?
Middlesbrough fought back to kick off their campaign with a hard-fought 2-1 victory and inflict a first defeat in eight and a half months on newly-promoted Lincoln City. The Imps – playing their first second-tier match in 65 years – made a strong start and opened the scoring in the 12th minute through Adam Reach but former Tottenham forward Lankshear marked his first league appearance since his much-hyped move to the Riverside by equalising just after the hour and then poking in a stoppage-time winner.
Why it matters for Middlesbrough
The result leaves Middlesbrough 14 points behind leaders Coventry in the title race. With a strong start, Middlesbrough will be looking to build on this momentum and push for promotion. Next fixture: vs Birmingham (at home, 2027-02-20) (15th in the table).
What comes next?
Middlesbrough will be looking to build on this momentum and push for promotion. With a strong start, they will be looking to continue their winning form and climb the table. The team will be focusing on their next fixture against Birmingham, which will be a tough test for them. But for now, they can bask in the glory of their dramatic win over Lincoln.
