Kim Hellberg believes his aptitude for mathematics helps him solve complex tactical problems but the Middlesbrough manager’s on field equations refused to balance here as two goals from Josh Coburn sent Millwall second.

Alex Neil’s resilient side came from behind to move one point and one place above Boro in a Championship table topped by Coventry.

Although much in the race for automatic promotion depends on Ipswich – three points behind Millwall with two games in hand – Neil’s team are within touching distance of the Premier League.

Hellberg, meanwhile, has presided over a run of four games without a win at just the wrong stage of the season.

The teamsheet brought bad news for Boro fans and neutrals but good tidings for Millwall. With a calf strain once again keeping Hayden Hackney out of Hellberg’s matchday squad arguably the Championship’s best midfielder looked on from the sidelines. Hackney’s passing and movement is invariably a joy to watch and without him around to control the midfield tempo, Boro are almost always a poorer team.

A strong start from Hellberg’s players initially suggested that this might be an exception to that rule. Boro had already created – although not quite...