Wolverhampton Wanderers edge Middlesbrough in thrilling game

Wolverhampton Wanderers have picked up all three points with an entertaining victory over Middlesbrough.

The home side took the lead three times, eventually winning 3-2 thanks to Kevin Doyle's winner.

© PA Photos

Wolves started somewhat slowly and after picking up a couple of early bookings, they almost conceded an own goal through the on-loan Kaspars Gorkss.

Grant Leadbitter hit the bar from long range just after that, but just as Middlesbrough started to take control of the game, Wolves took the lead.

After some great play on the left Stephen Hunt crossed the ball towards the centre of the box. It was met by Boro's Stephen McManus, who could only watch as the ball went past Jason Steele and into his own goal.

It didn't take long for the away side to respond. A great save from Dorus de Vries saw the ball bounce out to Leadbitter, who hit the bar again. This time, though, the ball bounced down and, according to the referee, over the line for the equaliser.

The match became end-to-end after that with Boro hitting the bar for a third time before Hunt missed a good chance to give the home side the lead just before half time.

Three minutes into the second half Wolves were ahead again. Some good play between Hunt and Sylvan Ebanks-Blake saw Bjorn Sigudarson released through the middle. The midfielder rounded the defender and slotted the ball home.

Again, though, the lead did not last for long. Leadbitter got his second of the game after finding himself free in the area.

The home side almost took the lead for a third time but after a goalmouth scramble neither Hunt nor Ebanks-Blake could find a route to goal. Minutes later Wolves had what seemed like a good penalty shout turned down.

Sigudarson missed the chance to score his second of the game before Hunt missed another opportunity as Wolves pushed for another goal.

Eventually their pressure told. A long throw from Jack Robinson was flicked on and Doyle rose highest to loop his header in at the far post and give the home side the advantage again.

Boro picked themselves up to finish the game well as Molinuex became very nervous but could not find an equaliser before full time.