Newly promoted Middlesbrough proved to be a tough match for established Stoke City in what was a tenacious midfield battle with sparse action in the penalty area.
Eight yellow cards highlighted the intensity of the game and dogged determination from Boro won them a well-deserved share of the spoils. Overall, an eye-opening introduction to Premier League life with plenty for manager Aitor Karanka to mull over in terms of his starting XI.
Positives
Good link-up play between Gaston Ramirez, Albert Adomah and Alvaro Negredo helped to brighten the gritty spells of the match and showed that Boro have plenty of creative attacking options.