The Teessiders were beaten 1-0 by the Cottagers after Anthony Knockaert scored the only goal of the game with just seven minutes on the clock. Our Boro writer Joe Nicholson has dished out his player ratings following the match – scroll down and flick through our picture gallery to see his marks:
1. Aynsley Pears - 7
Left exposed for the goal. Made a couple of decent saves to keep Boro in touching distance. 7 Photo: George Wood
2. Djed Spence - 5
Struggled to deal with Ivan Cavaleiro and Joe Bryan who doubled up on Fulham’s left. Unable to stop the cross for Fulham's goal. 5 Photo: James Chance
3. Jonny Howson - 6
Made a few important interceptions. Comfortable dribbling the ball out from the back. 6 Photo: James Chance
4. Paddy McNair - 6
A sticky start but recovered well. Played a few probing passes out to the flanks from the heart of defence. 6 Photo: Alex Davidson