Boro goalscorer hopes Newcastle win will give the players a boost

Stacy Long says each of his team-mates played their part in the FA Cup win over Newcastle United.

The Boro midfielder opened the scoring at the start of the second half with a deflected strike before Michael Bostwick and Peter Winn added to that with Joey Barton getting on the scoresheet for the visitors.

Speaking after the game, Long said his side had worked their socks off and the result could be the start of some big careers for some of his team-mates.

“It was fantastic, every player played their part. Everyone’s worked their socks off.

“We created the chances but in the first half we didn’t really take them. In the second half we did and that’s won us the game.

“We knew they were going to be a to quality side. We didn’t underestimate them. We made it hard for them, we worked hard ourselves, put them under pressure and didn’t give them time and space that they’re used to.

“[Joey Barton’s late strike] made it a bit nervy, it was a great strike. They could have come and give us a bit of trouble but I think we took the right attitude and rather than sit deep and sit back we attacked them again and Peter scored a great goal.

“It’s fantastic. As a team it’s going to be big for everyone but hopefully it’s a start for bigger careers for some players. They’ve been at higher levels, come back down [and are] working their way back up so hopefully it’s the start.”