Mark Robins’ seven-minute Stoke City dissection with glint in his eye about future

Stoke City manager Mark Robins reflected on his team's future with optimism despite suffering a 3-2 defeat against Middlesbrough at the bet365 Stadium. Stoke equalized twice during the contest courtesy of a Neto Borges own goal forced by Junior Tchamadeu and a strike from Robert Bozenik. However, a 94th-minute goal from George Hirst following a poorly defended corner handed the visitors all three points.

Robins praised his squad's fight and talent, stating they would have suffered a much worse defeat against such quality last season. While he criticized the schoolboy defending on the decisive set piece, he expressed strong confidence that Stoke can make significant strides if they learn valuable lessons regarding pressing, ball retention, and aggression.