Middlesbrough Maintain Perfect Record Under Hellberg with 2-1 Victory Over Charlton

Boro Continue Impressive Form at The Valley

Middlesbrough maintained their 100 per cent record under new head coach Kim Hellberg with an impressive 2-1 victory at Charlton. The match, played on Tuesday evening at The Valley, saw Riley McGree and Morgan Whittaker scored during a dominant first half, giving the visitors a commanding position in the Championship promotion race.

First Half Dominance Secures Victory

The game began with Middlesbrough asserting their authority early on. Macaulay Gillesphey and Sonny Carey contrived to lose the ball just outside the Charlton penalty area and Delano Burgzorg’s sharp cutback was finished first time by McGree to open the scoring. The visitors then doubled their advantage in dramatic fashion, as Whittaker fired through the legs of Kaminski from McGree’s pass after the visitors countered in devastating fashion in stoppage time.

Late Drama and Emotional Context

Charlton pulled a goal back in the 81st minute, Edmundson guiding Rob Apter’s cross into his own net, setting up a tense finale. Despite the pressure, second-placed Boro held on to make it three straight wins under the Swede as they closed the gap to leaders Coventry to five points. The match carried extra significance as the club was paying tribute to the late Norman Barker, who sadly passed away on Saturday after falling ill in his seat.

Significance for Both Clubs

The result has contrasting implications for both sides. For Middlesbrough, the victory strengthens their automatic promotion ambitions and demonstrates the immediate impact of Hellberg’s appointment. Meanwhile, the Addicks suffered a fifth straight Sky Bet Championship loss, leaving them languishing in 17th position. With attendance at 17,258, the home supporters witnessed another disappointing result in what has become a challenging campaign for Charlton Athletic.