Middlebrough Lucky Says McClaren
Middlesbrough manager Steve McClaren said his side were lucky to escape with a 1-0 loss in the first leg of their Uefa Cup semi-final at Steaua Bucharest.
They had keeper Mark Schwarzer to thank for keeping the deficit to one goal, though the Australian could do little to stop Nicolae Dica putting Steaua ahead after he turned and arrowed in a shot.
But Schwarzer pulled off a finger-tip save to send a Dorin Goian strike over before denying Dica after Stuart Parnaby’s fluffed clearance.
“We’re delighted. The first half was very good, but in the second half we made mistakes,” said McClaren.
“It could have been worse, 2-0 or 3-0, and it would have been impossible to come back.”
Boro were missing influential captain Gareth Southgate for the game as well as striker Mark Viduka.
Both are hopeful to be back for the second leg on 27 April when McClaren expects a much-improved performance from his side.
He added: “Next week it will be a completely different game. We know we can play better.”
Steaua coach Cosmin Olaroiu was disappointed his team did not press home their advantage with more goals.
“I have a bitter taste after this victory,” said Olaroiu.
