John Obi Mikel attempted to focus on the positive side of Middlesborough’s performance as they were held to a 1-1 draw by Newport County in his first game.
The former Chelsea star was on for 62 minutes before being replaced by Adam Clayton but could not inspire them to victory in the FA Cup fourth round game.
Daniel Ayala opened the scoring for Tony Pulis’ men after heading past goalkeeper Nick Townsend a corner taken by Lewis Wing.
Mathew Dolan’s injury-time strike offered the visitors a lifeline as they will wait for a replay to determine their Fifth Round fate.