Whittaker and McGree's strikes give Boro an edge over Charlton.
Middlesbrough maintained their perfect start under new head coach Kim Hellberg with a 2-1 Championship victory over Charlton Athletic at The Valley, a result that kept them within five points of leaders Coventry and extended their winning run under the Swede to three matches. First-half goals from Riley McGree and in-form Morgan Whittaker put Boro firmly in command before a late George Edmundson own goal gave Charlton hope of an unlikely comeback.
On an emotional night that began with a tribute to Charlton supporter Norman Barker, the visitors dominated long spells of the opening period and repeatedly stretched the home defence with their high pressing and pace in transition. Thomas Kaminski produced several vital saves to keep the Addicks alive, and Nathan Jones' side improved markedly after half-time, but Isaac Olaofe blazed over in stoppage time as Boro held on.
Boro's fast start sets the tone