Tony Pulis' first game in charge as Middlesbrough boss ended in defeat as Aston Villa sneaked to a 1-0 victory at The Riverside Stadium.

Winger Robert Snodgrass’ back-post header proved the difference in a hotly-contested affair in the north east, with the Scotsman’s strike earning Steve Bruce’s side their first win in over a month.

Pulis has it all to do at Boro if he is to guide the former Premier League side back into the playoff places, with former boss Garry Monk failing to instill a sense of squad unity during his tenure despite a summer of big-spending.

Blessed with a wealth of experience following spells at Stoke City and West Bromwich Albion, Pulis is a no-nonsense manager who will not bow to egos, and perhaps this is the issue that exists in Boro’s star-studded squad.

Saturday’s defeat was testament to the task Pulis faces, and a tough trip to Preston North End tomorrow will do the Welshman no favours.

Fans took to Twitter to have their say on the club’s latest promotion set-back…

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