Sebastian Berhalter says the relentless support from Middlesbrough fans is the key factor as the team regroups for Tuesday's Championship fixture against Millwall. The midfielder, who scored his first two goals for the club in Saturday's dramatic 4-3 win over Norwich City, told reporters that the connection with the stands provides the energy to keep fighting.
"The support was incredible and that's all you can ask for," Berhalter said. "When you have the support 24/7 it's easy to keep going and keep fighting and pushing."
Emotional victory sets stage
Manager Kim Hellberg described an outpouring of emotion at full-time after his side surrendered a two-goal lead before Ashley Phillips headed in a stoppage-time winner. The result lifted Boro to fourth in the Championship standings with 13 points from six games, just one point behind leaders West Ham. They have scored 12 goals this season, conceding eight.
That late drama at the Riverside has set up a key midweek encounter. Victory against Millwall would send Middlesbrough to the summit of the league, but Berhalter insists the squad is not getting ahead of itself. "We aren't thinking too much about the league table and are instead trusting the process," he said. "We are trusting the instructions of Kim Hellberg."
Building under Hellberg
The American midfielder was full of praise for the impact of the boss since his arrival. "Kim Hellberg has been incredible and has made us all better players," Berhalter stated. "We believe in him and will keep taking it one game at a time." This positive start, which includes recent wins over QPR and West Brom, has built a strong belief within the camp. The team's overall stats show they have scored 12 goals this season, but the focus now is on the quick turnaround to face Millwall in the next fixtures entry.
Millwall arrive on Teesside after a disappointing defeat at Blackburn Rovers on Saturday, a match managed by former Boro boss Tony Mowbray. Hellberg's challenge is to ensure his players are physically and mentally ready to go again after such an emotionally draining victory. The quick turnaround, with just 72 hours between games, tests squad depth and recovery, areas where the manager's planning will be key.
Middlesbrough's recent form shows three wins, one draw, and one loss in their last five outings. The team returns to action at the Riverside Stadium on Tuesday evening aiming to continue making their city proud.
