Half-Time Report: Stewart Downing goal gives Middlesbrough lead against Rotherham United

Stewart Downing has given Middlesbrough the lead at half time of their Championship match against Rotherham United.

Boro piled on the pressure early and David Nugent, Carlos de Pena and George Friend all had shots blocked by Millers defenders.

Albert Adomah's shot was saved by Lee Camp but it did not take long for Middlesbrough to break the deadlock.

In the 14th minute, Rotherham conceded possession on the halfway line to give Downing a clear run at goal. He surged into the penalty area before striking the ball across goal into the back of the net.

De Pena nearly doubled the lead three minutes later but his header hit the bar from Nugent's cross.

Rotherham enjoyed a period of ascendancy before half time, but shots from Tony Andreu and Farrend Rawson flew past the post.