Aitor Karanka frustrated by Middlesbrough stalemate with Fulham

Aitor Karanka bemoaned promotion-chasing Middlesbrough's disappointing display following the goalless draw with Fulham.

Boro slipped to four points behind leaders Brighton after putting in a listless display against a game Fulham side.

In fact, the hosts were perhaps fortunate to leave with a point after Ross McCormark missed a glorious chance to net the decisive goal in injury time.

And Karanka was far from pleased with Middlesbrough's performance, especially ahead of back-to-back away games against Cardiff and Wolves.

"We didn't play the way we usually do," he said. "I am especially disappointed with the start because you need to begin well at home.

"We know sides will do this (try to frustrate us), but we have to find a way to win the game - especially at home.

"We have three games away in two weeks now, so that's disappointing. I can understand the crowd being frustrated, because I felt the same way."

The boss also accused Fulham of time-wasting during the clash, although he admitted it had little impact on the result.

Karanka continued: "They were always trying to waste time, from the beginning of the game.

"I spoke to the referee at half-time, but I thought it was the same in the second half. However, I thought the score was fair."

Karanka insisted, too, that he is unconcerned about the table at this stage of the campaign.

He added: "I prefer to think about the game today rather than worry about the table. We have to play Cardiff on Tuesday and now we're focussing on that.

"Perhaps after the Wolves game next weekend, I can sit in the press conference after two away wins."

Opposite number Kit Symons conceded that he has spoken to his players about "managing the game" better, yet refuted Karanka's assertion of any real gamesmanship.

"They [Middlesbrough] were having a bit of a grumble during the first half," he said. "It wasn't something we set out to do.

"We've had a few chats about managing the game better and you come to somewhere like here, you're not going to go rushing after balls when you're drawing."

Speaking about the result, Symons added: "It's mixed emotions, but to come here, get a clean sheet and a point is very pleasing.

"In the end, we could have won the game, but I am pleased - and that is the overriding feeling at the moment."