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| Juninho scores for Middlesbrough |
Everton's run as Champions would be brief but they did manage one defence in a 0-0 draw with Leeds United.
The Christmas period is always a crazy time for football with lots of games coming very quickly. Everton took a trip to the Riverside Stadium on Boxing Day to take on Middlesbrough. The 'Boro were having a disappointing season despite big summer signings Emerson and Fabrizio Ravenelli. They found themselves in the relegation zone and faced the prospect of being docked three points for failing to play a fixture at Blackburn Rovers, blaming injuries and illness in the club.
The first half was a belter. On 22 minutes, Emerson played in Craig Hignett to give Middlesbrough the lead but the lead was short lived as David Unsworth equalised with a penalty following a handball by Derek Whyte.
Boro retook the lead through veteran midfielder Clayton Blackmore, who curled in a low effort from outside the box. Right before half-time however, Middlesbrough committed the cardinal sin of giving Toffee striker Duncan Ferguson space and time in the box for a header. And you never give Duncan Ferguson space and time for a header.
In the second half, Middlesbrough took control of the game. Juninho saw his initial effort stopped by Everton's legendary keeper Neville Southall but the ball found its way back to him and he scored on the second attempt.
With fifteen minutes to go, the game was made safe for Boro'. Ravenelli linked up with Juninho inside the Everton box and the little Brazilian scored his second of the game.
Troubled times for Middlesbrough but some Christmas cheer as they became English Champions for the second time.
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