Will Lankshear marked his Middlesbrough debut with a stunning first-time volley, securing a 1-0 victory over Wrexham in the Carabao Cup first round. The £10 million summer signing from Tottenham scored the only goal of the match in the 61st minute, instantly endearing himself to the Riverside faithful.
Match Summary
Middlesbrough dominated early proceedings and nearly took the lead in the seventh minute. Adilson Malanda prodded Sebastian Berhalter's cross goalwards from close range, but Wrexham goalkeeper Danny Ward produced a superb point-blank save to keep the ball out.
Wrexham, returning from a pre-season tour of the United States just four days earlier, created several decent chances. Danny Imray wasted a good opportunity when he failed to connect properly with Callum Doyle's cross. Six minutes before the break, Sam Smith fired a low shot into the legs of Middlesbrough goalkeeper Sol Brynn after being set up by Nathan Broadhead.
Lankshear's Winning Moment
Lankshear came close early in the second half with a curling effort that went just over the bar. However, the 21-year-old did not have to wait long for his first goal in a Boro shirt. Leo Castledine headed Jeremy Sarmiento's cross into Lankshear's path, and the striker swivelled neatly before hooking a superb first-time volley into the far corner.
Middlesbrough almost doubled their lead with three minutes remaining, but Morgan Whittaker's low strike rebounded off the post.
Manager Reactions
Middlesbrough manager Kim Hellberg expressed his delight with Lankshear's instant impact. "He was very impressive and the most impressive thing has been seeing how well he has worked on the training ground," Hellberg said. "How hard he works on the training ground and how much he wants to learn. It's a joy to watch and when you add the person he is to the quality he has as a footballer on the pitch, you have a very good striker. I'm happy to have him here."
Wrexham manager Phil Parkinson felt his side gave a decent account of themselves. "I thought we had enough half-chances, particularly in the first half, to have progressed in the competition," Parkinson said. "The game really separated from one quality finish from their lad. We had some good build-up play, but just didn't quite have that clinical edge. It was a big ask in terms of coming back from America on Monday and you've got to give the lads credit for going close. There were a lot of positives in the performance."
Looking Ahead
The victory gives Middlesbrough a winning start to their season and sets up a second-round tie. Lankshear's debut goal provides an early boost for the club's supporters, who will be hoping for more of the same from the young striker. Wrexham, meanwhile, will look to bounce back in their league campaign, having shown resilience despite the quick turnaround from their transatlantic trip.
