Premier League
Hull City 2-0 Manchester United: Ajayi and Mendy secure shock home win
Two first-half goals from S. Ajayi and N. Mendy hand Hull City a memorable victory over Manchester United at the MKM Stadium.
Hull City kicked off their campaign with a commanding 2-0 victory over visiting Manchester United at the MKM Stadium, dealing an early blow to the Red Devils' title aspirations.
The hosts got off to a dream start in the 17th minute when S. Ajayi, playing for Hull City, slotted home a Normal Goal to give the home side the lead. The goal energised the home crowd and set the tone for the opening period.
Just before the half-hour mark, Hull doubled their advantage. In the 38th minute, N. Mendy found the net with a Normal Goal, with R. Slater providing the assist. The goal meant Hull went into the break with a comfortable 2-0 cushion.
Manchester United struggled to create meaningful chances throughout the first half and were made to pay for their lack of cutting edge. Their manager Michael Carrick will be looking for a response from his side in the weeks ahead.
The second half offered few sights of goal for either side, with United pushing forward in search of a way back into the contest. Hull, content with their lead, focused on maintaining shape and limiting space for the visitors.
Discipline issues surfaced late in the day. With six minutes of stoppage time remaining, Hull City's L. Millar picked up a Yellow Card, while earlier in the half, both P. Dorgu of Manchester United and M. Crooks of Hull City had been cautioned.
Despite late pressure from United, Hull City held firm to secure all three points. The result leaves them in 13th place in the early Premier League table, while Manchester United sit in 8th following the opening round of fixtures.
For Hull City, the win provides a major confidence boost as they look to build on this strong start. Sergej Jakirovic's side will fancy their chances of continuing to punch above their weight in the weeks to come.