Manager Simon Grayson was happy to the start the season with a clean sheet and a point against promotion favourites Middlesbrough.
Speaking to PNE Player after the game he felt his side deserved at least a draw and had the better chances to take all three points.
“We knew it would be a tough game for us and that we would have to be at our best,” he told the Club’s online TV channel. “ We were organised and disciplined and full credit to the players. We knew how we were going to play to nullify their major assets and when we got the chance to play we had to go and do that as well.
“I am happy with clean sheet, but also the fact we created some good chances against the favourites for the division.
“When you look back at the chances we created we can be a little bit disappointed that we didn’t win the game. They had a good chance through Leadbitter early on, but overall we limited them to very few opportunities.”
The spine of his team, lead by an inspirational display from John Welsh, held strong against the talent of the Teesiders and the manager was impressed by everyone’s contribution.
“We knew we had to be very compact in the middle of the pitch with the midfield three and the three defenders, because Middlesbrough want to play through you, but everyone did what was needed of them; they can come off that pitch pleased and proud with the way they played.
“A lot of work John [Welsh] does can go unnoticed, but from a manager’s point of view he has carried out a job in front of that back four, winning tackles, sweeping up and getting round key players and it was quite right he got man of the match.
“They [the new signings] haven’t had too many games with us, but they all contributed very well. They have all worked very hard over the last couple of days and I am sure they will improve with every game they play for us.”
Click here to watch the full interview and remember that if you sign up to a yearly subscription before 12 noon on 1st September you could win one of six brand new 2015/16 home or away shirts.