Half-Time Report: No goals at the Riverside Stadium

Middlesbrough and Brighton & Hove Albion have played out a goalless first half in their Championship game at the Riverside Stadium.

Chances were few and far between in the opening minutes, with Richard Smallwood's shot that was saved by Casper Ankergren in the 11th minute the first real effort by either side.

Brighton were making the attacking moves at the Riverside, while their hosts were resorting to committing fouls to stop the Seagulls.

The pattern continued for the rest of the first half that left much to be desired from both sides, with Andrew Halliday's effort from close range for Middlesbrough on 43 minutes giving hope of a more entertaining second period.