Skipper's Praise For Magnetic North!
EMANUEL POGATETZ hailed the affect of the Boro fans, especially in the North Stand, who he says played a major part in bringing about Mido's deserved equaliser.
The club captain was delighted with the support of the Riverside crowd at the weekend and felt they were a major factor in helping the team grab their late goal against West Ham.
Former Boro captain Tony Mowbray once praised the Holgate End at the old Ayresome Park for "sucking in" a vital goal and Pogatetz says the North Stand has a similar role.
"The crowd were fantastic, especially in the second half. When we kicked towards the North Stand it makes a huge difference to us.
"The sound was magnificent and it made a big difference to us. They played a big part on the day and I thank them for it."
Pogatetz knew it would be difficult to recreate the atmosphere which was evident during the excellent 2-0 win over Manchester City but was pleased that the crowd got behind the team, even when they went a goal behind.
"I can't stress enough how important it is to have the fans supporting us. It makes a big difference to the players and their confidence.
"They were loud right until the very end and if we can get that all the time that would be fantastic."
The Austrian international was relatively pleased with a point, despite having chances to win the game in a frantic last ten minutes.
"We did well to come back from 1-0 down and I think we have to settle for a point. We weren't at our best and I think they deserved their lead but we were all over them at the end.
"The three substitutions made a huge difference for us and gave us that extra attacking impetus that we maybe lacked earlier on.
"We have a great spirit among the players at the minute and everybody is hungry to get on the pitch, which is perhaps something we have not had in the past."
Pogatetz also paid tribute to goalscorer Mido, who came off the bench yet again to grab a vital point for Southgate's men.
"He made a big impact for us and we know his strengths. I think he was frustrated at getting injured and missing the last two games.
"Now the gaffer will have tough decisions all over the pitch for the game with Aston Villa, which is a good problem to have."
Boro face back to back away games at Aston Villa and Everton and Pogatetz believes they can pick up points in both matches.
"These are the teams that are around us and if you want to finish above them in the table then we need to get points from them.
"It won't be easy but if we play our game then I'm quite confident we'll get points and good results."
