Middlesbrough are on track to continue their fine away form after Marvin Emnes gave them a half-time lead over Brighton & Hove Albion at the Amex Stadium.

After a largely uneventful opening 20 minutes, Emnes brought the game to life with his fourth goal of the season, a low strike from just outside of the penalty area.

Boro have won their last three matches on their travels in all competition but their lead was immediately under pressure as Gus Poyet's hosts rallied after conceding.

Craig Mackail-Smith twice came close to an equaliser, firstly testing Jason Steele before dragging a shot from a good position wide.

Southampton loanee Dean Hammond was also guilty of being wasteful, heading over from six yards as Boro entered the break ahead.