Carayol stars as Boro beat Chelsea in U21 clash

Muzzy Carayol

Gambian Mustapha Carayol gave Tony Mowbray a timely reminder of what he can do as he inspired Middlesbrough to a 2-0 Barclays FA Under-21 Premier League win at the Riverside Stadium last night.

Carayol, who has been looking to establish himself since coming back from injury, was the stand-out player. He was one of four first teamers in the line-up against a young Chelsea side.

Before half-time Williams’ shot was comfortably saved by Beeney and Ryan Brobbel’s header was safely gathered by the Blues keeper after Carayol had skinned right-back Fankaty Dabo.

The second half was only two minutes old when Boro’s persistence paid off. Isak Sswankambo’s headed clearance fell to Brobbel who converted decisively from close range.

With his defence struggling to deal with Brobbel’s ball in from the right, Beeney could not prevent Carayol blasting home the decisive second from 10 yards on 76 minutes.

The win put the Boro U21s second in the table, four points behind Everton who have two games in hand.