Chuba Akpom: Nigerian striker bags hat trick in Middlesbrough’s romping of Wigan

By Wale Mustapha

Nigeria international Chuba Akpom registered a second half hat-trick for Middlesbrough in their 4-1 commanding victory over Wigan Athletic on Monday.

The Boxing Day clash played at the Riverside Stadium was also Michael Carrick’s first win since he took over the Boro side.

Marcus Forss scored to give Boro the lead in the 26 minutes and the host took charge of the proceedings but couldn’t add more till the break.

Akpom then took control of the game in the second half as he doubled his side’s lead four minutes after the break.

The 27-year-old got the third for Boro, his second from a brilliant finish in 59th minutes.

He would soon get his treble in the stoppage time after he was set up by Ryan Giles and calmly make it count.

Akpom has now scored 12 goals in 16 Championship appearances for Michael Carrick’s side this season.

Middlesbrough have now moved to 10th on the log with 33 points, just two points off the playoff spot.