Hull City marked their return to the Premier League with a sensational 2-0 victory over Manchester United. First-half goals from defenders Semi Ajayi and Nobel Mendy sealed the historic win for the Tigers.
Manager Sergej Jakirovic deployed a back five after analyzing United's pre-season matches. Assistant head coach Dean Holden revealed that the coaching staff kept the tactical shift under wraps for weeks to avoid giving anything away.
Despite having only 28 percent possession, Hull executed their game plan effectively by utilizing wing-backs and counter-attacks. Holden emphasized that the squad is entirely comfortable playing without the ball in a mid-block.
The victory is remarkable given that Hull were favorites to finish bottom after securing promotion through the play-offs last season. Only 15 months ago the club narrowly avoided relegation to League One, but they are now focused on staying in the top flight.
