Middlesbrough boss Aitor Karanka has admitted that the scoreline in his side's 3-0 win over Leeds United was not a fair reflection of the match at the Riverside Stadium.

David Nugent handed Boro the lead in the third minute and an own goal from Giuseppe Bellusci doubled their advantage before the break.

Mirco Antenucci thought he had got a goal back for the visitors, only for referee Neil Swarbrick to disallow his effort, while the Whites failed to capitalise on good opportunities before Diego Fabbrini's strike settled the contest.

Karanka told Sky Sports News: "I don't think the score is a reflection of the game. But the main thing is that we have won and we have another three points on the table.

"I knew this was going to be a very difficult game - and it was. We are only in September, though, and we have to keep going.

"It's going to be difficult. Our next game is against Reading, who are one of the best teams in the league and have a very good manager."

Middlesbrough moved to within a point of Brighton & Hove Albion at the top of the Championship as a result of their win.