Derby County 1-1 Middlesbrough

Johnny Russell scored his first goal of the season for Derby

Johnny Russell rescued a point for Derby with his late goal earning a draw against Middlesbrough.

Boro took a 16th-minute lead when George Friend's scuffed shot found Kike and the striker fired across goal and into the bottom left-hand corner.

Tom Ince's free-kick from the edge of the area was superbly saved by Boro keeper Dimitrios Konstantopoulos.

The Rams equaliser came with two minutes left as a cross found Russell at the back post and he drilled home.

The result sees Boro maintain their unbeaten start, although they missed the opportunity to go top, while Derby continue their search for a first victory, having also gone out of the League Cup after being beaten by League Two Portsmouth.

Their cause was not helped by two first-half injuries to Jamie Hanson and Jeff Hendrick but despite having home advantage they struggled to break down a resilient Boro defence.

Chris Martin's header, which was kept out by the alert Konstantopoulos, was the closest they came in a frustrating second half before Russell's late leveller.

Ryan Shotton sent a long ball into the box and Russell was on hand to convert.

Derby County head coach Paul Clement: "I think we got our reward in the end. The players are a bit deflated in the dressing room as it's our third game and third draw. But there are lots of positives to draw on.

"The two forced changes in the first half didn't help us. We are down to the bare bones in midfield now. But what that does is make it impossible to make positive, attacking substitutions in the second half when there were some weary legs.

"Like Saturday against Charlton, I think we are little bit hard done by again."

Middlesbrough head coach Aitor Karanka:

"Yes, I think it's a very good point It was not as great a performance as Saturday, we didn't play in our way but I'm proud of all of them as they worked against a very good team.

"It was our third game in six days so it's difficult to compete every single day, but for that reason I'm pleased.

"I would have liked to win the game, we were close, but we have to learn that one mistake (can cost you).

"We have to learn when we are tired, we have to concentrate more. But I'm pleased with the attitude as it was very difficult."