Vipotnik's Brace Lifts Middlesbrough in Dramatic Draw

Slovenian striker scores two penalties as Boro come from behind to tie Swansea City

Apr. 6, 2026 at 6:52pm

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An abstract expressionist painting in neon colors, with rapid brushstrokes depicting the dynamic motion of a penalty kick being taken, the ball and players' limbs blending into a vibrant, energetic composition.The dramatic tension of a penalty kick being taken captures the high-stakes drama of a crucial Championship match.Portsmouth Today

In a thrilling Championship match, Middlesbrough came from behind to earn a 2-2 draw against Swansea City. Zan Vipotnik scored two penalty kicks for Boro, while Tommy Conway converted a late penalty to earn a point for the home side. The result lifts Swansea to 15th in the table, while Middlesbrough remain in third place.

Why it matters

This match was an important result for both teams as they jockey for position in the Championship table. Middlesbrough's comeback showed their resilience and scoring prowess, while Swansea will be pleased to have earned a point at home against a promotion-chasing side.

The details

Swansea took an early lead through Alex Bangura, but Vipotnik equalized from the penalty spot after Bangura fouled Liam Cullen. Bangura then went off injured, and Vipotnik converted another penalty just before halftime after Eom Ji-Sung was fouled. In the second half, Conway scored from the spot to level the match after Callum Brittain was fouled.

  • The match was played on Monday, April 6, 2026.
  • Bangura opened the scoring in the 12th minute.
  • Vipotnik scored his first penalty in the 20th minute.
  • Bangura was substituted in the 34th minute due to injury.
  • Vipotnik scored his second penalty in the 45+4th minute.
  • Conway scored the equalizing penalty in the 75th minute.

The players

Zan Vipotnik

A Slovenian striker playing for Middlesbrough, currently leading the Championship in scoring with 20 goals.

Tommy Conway

A forward for Swansea City who scored the late equalizing penalty.

Alex Bangura

A midfielder for Swansea City who scored the opening goal but was substituted due to injury.

Liam Cullen

A Swansea City player who won the penalty that led to Vipotnik's first goal.

Eom Ji-Sung

A Swansea City player who conceded the penalty that led to Vipotnik's second goal.

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What they’re saying

“We showed great character to come from behind twice and earn a point. Zan has been in fantastic form and his penalties were crucial.”

— Chris Wilder, Middlesbrough Manager

“It's frustrating to concede two penalties, but the lads fought hard and we're pleased to get something from the game against a tough opponent.”

— Russell Martin, Swansea City Manager

What’s next

Middlesbrough will host Portsmouth in their next match, while Swansea City will visit Leicester City.

The takeaway

This entertaining draw showcased the resilience and scoring prowess of Middlesbrough, who were able to come from behind twice thanks to Zan Vipotnik's penalty heroics. The result keeps both teams in the hunt for promotion, setting up intriguing matchups in the coming weeks.