Gareth Southgate stated that we had passed a 'tough test', and this is certainly the case as tough away trips and particularly games against Aston Villa have seen us struggle in the past. Every Boro fan when looking at the compact nature of the table between the European spots and the relegation zone will no doubt be relieved that this draws us away from the likes of the promoted West Brom and Stoke City, and for Villa questions can be drawn as to whether they are quite capable of achieving a European spot this season, with many sides hot on their heels.
That's not to say its time for Boro fans to start to feel certain of potential success this season with a tough away trip to Everton to come and home games against Bolton and Newcastle. We all know how our season fluctuates and with the tight nature of the table lose two games and you find yourself worrying about the relegation zone. Nevertheless now is a time to enjoy the moment while we can and hope for the best at Goodison Park.
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