Aitor Karanka said beating Blackpool was one of his “best days”.
Boro overcame limited but spirited opponents to claim the points and climb to the top of the Championship.
It was a far from easy task with Bloomfield Road's gluepot pitch proving problematic for the visitors.
After a tense battle for supremacy, Boro finally grabbed the opening goal through Jonathan Woodgate who, in his first start since August, headed in a Grant Leadbitter corner in the 81st minute.
Blackpool equalised five minutes later when Ben Gibson headed into his own net. But Kike Garcia headed in the winner in the 88th minute to secure three priceless points.
With Bournemouth drawing 2-2 at home to Derby, Karanka's team moved from third to first.
And the Spaniard, who made seven changes before kick-off, was delighted with the win.
“For me it could have been one of my best days,” said the Boro boss.
“It was very important to beat Manchester City but for us to win this kind of game is unbelievable.
“We played on a pitch that was impossible to play on and I think it's a lack of respect to everybody who plays for a ticket to watch games here.
“But it is a very good day for us and I am very proud of my players.”
Dani Ayala picked up an injury during the match and with a Blackpool player also limping off, Karanka claimed the Football League should take action to stamp out such poor surfaces.
“My players can feel it in their backs and their legs,” he said. “The Championship is amazing but it is difficult to understand that teams have to play here.”
Karanka made seven changes before kick-off and lined his team up in a three-five-two formation.
He confirmed that regular left-back George Friend missed the game through illness but insisted that he was planning to use a back three long before the defender was sidelined.
On going top of the league, Karanka refused to get too excited.
“We are all very happy of course but there is a long, long way to go.”
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