By Middlesbrough FC

A controversial penalty proved decisive as Boro Under-18s were denied by Tottenham Hotspur in the FA Youth Cup.

Boro had taken the lead, and levelled matters to 2-2 on the hour-mark, but the London side had the benefit of a spot-kick which provided their passage through.

Frankie Coulson had given Boro an early lead before the home side equalised on the stroke of half-time.

Callum Olusesi put the hosts in front 11 minutes into the second half with a shot from close range, but Boro dug in and were rewarded when Fin Cartwright made it 2-2 on 60 minutes.

It was the hosts who stole it, though, when Tynan Thompson converted after they were awarded a penalty late on.

There was still time for a Boro penalty appeal, but the referee dismissed the claims and Spurs held on for the win.