Boro new boys show Willem the way

Dean Windass scored the winner for Middlesbrough

Willem II 0-1 Middlesbrough

Jonathan Greening and Mark Wilson made winning debuts for Middlesbrough in a bad-tempered clash with Dutch outfit Willem II.

Dean Windass scored the only goal of the game with Steve McLaren's two new signings both making their mark.

The former Manchester United pair, called into David Platt's England Under-21 squad on Thursday, were sent straight into action just hours after completing their move from Old Trafford.

Wilson, who cost £1.5million, made an appearance as a second-half substitute with Greening - a £2million buy - on from the start.

Boro struggled to create any clear chances early on, but with half-time approaching Greening created their first real opportunity with a clever run and cross which was converted by Windass with a powerful header.

Hamilton Ricard picked up a yellow card

Willem II tested goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer in the first period, but as the game wore on it was Boro who exerted their authority and Windass' effort proved to be decisive.

After 57 minutes Hamilton Ricard, leading the line in the absence of the injured Alen Boksic, had a goal disallowed for handball before things turned a little sour.

Ricard was fortunate to escape with a booking after appearing to throw a punch at Jattoo Ceesay as tempers flared.

In the closing stages keeper Mark Crossley, on for Schwarzer and one of seven subsitutions made by Boro, was kept busy but the quality of football suffered with the introduction of so many new players.

In the final minute Joseph Desire Job appeared to lash out in frustration though the referee did not see the incident.