Aitor Karanka says draw at West Ham will boost Middlesbrough's confidence
Saturday 1 October 2016 19:06, UK
Aitor Karanka says Middlesbrough will take confidence from drawing at West Ham to end a run of three defeats, even though they had been in a winning position.
Cristhian Stuani's header had put the promoted side ahead at the London Stadium before a brilliant solo goal from Dimitri Payet ensured a 1-1 final score.
The result means Middlesbrough remain in 16th, just two points ahead of West Ham in the first of the three relegation places.
Nevertheless, it gave the visitors their first point since a 0-0 stalemate at West Brom on August 28 and that pleased Karanka.
He said: "I think it was really important because after three defeats, it's always important to add a point.
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"We know we are new in the Premier League and we know how difficult it is to add points in the Premier League. For that reason, we are really pleased.
"We had a really good attitude on the pitch. Last week we played for just 35 to 40 minutes with that attitude. The main thing for me is to always play with the right attitude.
"I liked the last 35 to 40 minutes against Tottenham a lot. Playing with that intensity, we could compete against a team like Tottenham and I always want players with that attitude on the pitch.
"Today we knew West Ham are not in their best moment but they have an amazing squad and they had a very good season last season.
"We knew it was going to be a tough game but at least we have one point. After our three defeats, this point can help us recover our confidence again."
Payet's equaliser was a special strike as he went past five men to score and Karanka had admiration for the Frenchman's effort.
He added: "We couldn't afford to make mistakes and knew it wasn't going to be an easy game. We knew if we gave them minimum chances to score they would take advantage.
"When you play against teams like West Ham with players like Payet, Antonio, Zaza and Lanzini and midfielders like Obiang, you know it is going to be difficult."
