1.   MIDDLESBROUGH gave a gritty performance for a result that could be more important in May than the memories of the Rumbelows League Cup semi-final against Manchester United.

2.   As always with Stone, the film has some gritty performances and a certain likable audacity.

3.   A gritty performance by the Horned Frogs bought their embattled head coach and his program a smidgen of breathing room last night at Amon Carter Stadium.

4.   Starter Jack McDowell had given a gritty performance that covered eight innings.

5.   And Appier delivered a key lesson with his gritty performance Wednesday.

6.   Dutch winger Marc Overmars predicted a gritty Belgian performance this time.

7.   His luck turned Friday, thanks to a gritty performance by Self Possessed.

8.   It was a gritty performance for Moorer, often called a reluctant warrior in the ring.

9.   Verplank turned in a gritty performance with birdies on three of the last four holes.

10.   Liz McColgan produced a typically gritty performance to win the Great North Run for the third time on Sunday.