Rob Edwards' Middlesbrough tenure began with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Swansea City at the Riverside Stadium, thanks to a Dael Fry header early in the second half. The win, a repeat of Boro's opening day result from the previous season, provided a positive start for Edwards as he looks to implement his tactical vision on Teesside.
The match itself was adisplay of grit and determination, rather than free-flowing football. Both sides struggled to create clear-cut chances, particularly in the first half. Swansea, boosted by investment from Snoop Dogg and Luka Modric, arguably had the better of the opening 45 minutes, with Ronald testing the side-netting with a half-volley and Liam Cullen directing a header straight at the keeper. Middlesbrough's best opportunity came from a Morgan Whittaker long-range strike that was tipped onto the crossbar by Swansea goalkeeper Lawrence Vigouroux.
Edwards, who replaced Michael Carrick in the summer, is aiming to shift Boro's style towards a more dynamic and energetic approach. He wants his team to press higher up the pitch and get the ball into dangerous areas more quickly. While the desired attacking fluency wasn't always evident against Swansea, Middlesbrough displayed defensive solidity and resilience.
The decisive moment arrived in the 51st minute when Fry rose highest to meet a Whittaker corner, glancing a header into the far corner of the net. It was Fry's first goal in over three years, making the victory all the more special for the Boro captain. After the goal, Middlesbrough largely controlled the game, limiting Swansea to few clear chances.
Edwards handed debuts to summer signings Callum Brittain and Alfie Jones, while also giving Hayden Hackney a start after the midfielder turned down a move to Ipswich Town. However, defender Rav van den Berg was absent from the squad amid speculation about his future.
Speaking after the match, Edwards expressed his satisfaction with the win but acknowledged the need for improvement in the final third. He praised Fry's performance, highlighting his leadership and contribution at both ends of the pitch. Edwards also emphasized the importance of building a strong connection with the Middlesbrough fans, leading his players on a lap of honor after the final whistle.
The victory provides a platform for Edwards to build upon as he seeks to transform Middlesbrough into a team capable of challenging for promotion. While patience will be required as the new manager implements his ideas, the early signs are encouraging. The team's defensive resolve, combined with moments of attacking quality, suggests that Middlesbrough could be a force to be reckoned with in the Championship this season.
