Championship match between Middlesbrough and Sunderland on February 4, 2024, ended with a 1-1 draw, showcasing not only two well-prepared teams but also bringing the influence of certain key football markers into focus.

Goals scored both in the second half - first by Middlesbrough at 01:00:58, and followed later by Sunderland at 01:22:35 - show a match where teams happened to play cautiously and with precision in the first half. Limited shots and successful saves of the goalkeeper might have contributed significantly for the long waiting until the teams found the back of the net.

Moreover, the intensity of the match is best reflected in the number and timing of yellow cards equally given to both teams throughout the game. But particularly telling was the fact that three out of six yellow cards were given in the last half an hour of the match, which shows increased competition towards the end of the match as both teams sought to change the tie into a win.

Another noticeable statistical factor of the match was the distribution of corner kicks. Sunderland, with 6 corner kicks compared to Middlesbrough's single one, dominated this facet of the game, perhaps reflecting Sunderland's stronger offensive efforts and control over the game. Yet, Middlesbrough managed to keep the discipline and resolve to deny Sunderland more goals.

In terms of offsides, Middlesbrough was flagged offside more often, five times compared to Sunderland's three. This could suggest that Middlesbrough played a more aggressive attacking strategy than Sunderland, albeit with a lack of timing precision that lead to offsides.

However, the draw tells us that despite the contrast in corner kicks and offsides, both Middlesbrough and Sunderland managed to keep their defense tight. The absence of red cards shows that both teams had maintained their discipline in this clash, lending to a controlled, strategic game from both ends.

In conclusion, optimal scoring opportunities, increased competition towards the end, and Sunderland's control of attacking plays were some of the key elements shaping this match. Yet, the match outcome tells us about the balanced quality of both sides, their defensive abilities, and the crucial importance of striking a balance between an attacking strategy and game discipline.

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