MIDDLESBROUGH’S FA Cup run came to an at the Emirates Stadium this afternoon when a free-flowing Arsenal prevented Aitor Karanka’s team from sealing a quarter-final spot.
The cup holders made the most of an impressive first half to secure a two-goal cushion at the break courtesy of two Olivier Giroud goals in as many minutes just before the half hour mark.
His first was when he turned in Kieran Gibbs’ low centre in the 27th minute and then he added his second two minutes later with a lovely first time volley from Alexis Sanchez’s corner.
Middlesbrough, who had hoped to repeat their previous round’s heroics when they defeated Premier League champions Manchester City, had no way back despite a couple of half chances including when Kike hit the bar seconds before the whistle.
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