Report by Greg Farrimond

Another impressive performance from Wigan Athletic was provided with no reward in a cruel climax at the JJB.

Latics dominated the match in what turned out to be a rather frustrating afternoon. Everything was present as Latics continued their run of impressive performances except that all important goal.

Lee Cattemole covered every blade of grass against his hometown club in an impressive display. His midfield partner Wilson Palacios was equally as productive.

The Honduran came close numerous times but found Boro 'keeper Ross Turnbull to be in fine form. His best chance when Emile Heskey set the ball perfectly with a classy touch to Palacios' feet. The midfielder struck a curling shot at goal but Turnbull pulled off a great save.

Boro rarely troubled the Latics defence with Chris Kirkland having very little to do all game. When the Boro attack came, the Latics defence stood strong, Titus Bramble making numerous strong tackles to deny the visitors in another impressive display.


Heksey  powerfully beats Alves

Substitute Jason Koumas also came close when his skillful run ended with a superb strike at goal. Turnbull at full stretch prevented the Welshman with his first of the season.

The cruel ending came in the 89th minute. Stewart Downing headed Jermaine Aliadiere through on goal. Aliadiere poked home, giving Middlesbrough their first away win since December 2007.

It was an unfortunate end to a game in which Latics were dominant and could have won the game themselves.

Latics: Kirkland; Melchiot (c), Scharner, Bramble, Figueroa, Valencia, Cattermole, Palacios (de Ridder 85), Kapo (Koumas 68), Zaki (Camara 81), Heskey
Subs: Pollitt; Taylor, Brown, Kilbane

Middlesbrough: Turnbull; Hoyte, Wheater, Riggott, Grounds, O'Neil, Shawky (Digard 59), Downing (c), Aliadiere, Alves (Adam Johnson 79), Mido
Subs: Jones; Emnes, John Johnson, Walker, Craddock

Referee: Mr M Atkinson