Hull City 1–4 Middlesbrough: Ruthless Boro Dominate as Kim Hellberg Makes It Two Wins From Two
Middlesbrough cruised to a commanding 4–1 victory over Hull City at the MKM Stadium, securing their second consecutive win under new manager Kim Hellberg. A blistering first-half performance sealed the points early, pushing Boro firmly into the Championship’s automatic promotion places.
Boro Run Riot in the First Half
The tone was set just nine minutes in, when David Strelec capitalised on poor defending from Sergej Jakirovic’s side, firing home from inside the box. From there, Middlesbrough never looked back.
Hull’s backline continued to unravel, and between the 31st and 43rd minutes, Boro delivered a devastating three-goal burst:
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Alex Gilbert smashed home a composed finish after Hull failed to clear a cross
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Morgan Whittaker curled in a stunning effort from the edge of the area
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Riley McGree added the fourth just before the break, slotting under Ivor Pandur after being left unmarked
By halftime, Hull were shell-shocked, and Boro were 4–0 up with the match effectively won.
Hull Pull One Back but Boro Stay in Control
Hull showed brief signs of life in the second half. Joe Gelhardt scored from the penalty spot on 62 minutes after being brought down by Sol Brynn, marking his 10th goal of the season.
But any hopes of a comeback quickly faded. Boro continued to threaten, with Hayden Hackney and substitute Sam Silvera both forcing saves and deflections wide.
Middlesbrough Could Face EFL Inquiry After Alleged Rule Breach in 4–1 Victory Over Hull City
Reports emerging this evening suggest that Middlesbrough may come under scrutiny from the English Football League following allegations of a potential rule breach in their recent 4–1 triumph over Hull City.
Although full details of the alleged infringement have not yet been disclosed, early indications imply that the EFL is preparing to examine matters surrounding the match proceedings. At this stage, it is understood that no formal charge has been issued, and the situation remains at the preliminary inquiry stage.
Middlesbrough’s convincing performance at the Riverside Stadium drew praise for its attacking intensity, but the post-match narrative has now shifted toward off-field issues. The club is reportedly awaiting further clarification from league officials and has not issued a public statement.
The EFL typically conducts initial assessments to determine whether sufficient grounds exist for a formal investigation. Should the governing body proceed, both clubs would be informed, and Middlesbrough would be required to provide relevant documentation or clarification.
Hull City, meanwhile, are believed to be monitoring the situation but are not currently thought to be the subject of any inquiry related to the match.
As the matter is still developing, supporters of both clubs will be awaiting official communication from the EFL. More information is expected once the league concludes its initial review of the reported concerns.
Hellberg Delighted With “Fantastic” First Half
After the match, manager Kim Hellberg praised the bravery and quality his team showed, especially in the first half:
“I thought the first half, with the players’ quality and bravery, was fantastic to witness. We also had a fantastic second half to seal the victory.”
He acknowledged Hull’s penalty but insisted his side controlled the game from start to finish:
“I don’t recall Hull creating many chances. We defended well in the second half, and the first half was fantastic.”
Hellberg added that the performance helped answer questions surrounding Boro’s creativity:
“It felt like we had more opportunities. We played fantastic attacking football with ball control and courage. I’m very proud of the players.”
Player Ratings Summary
Hull City
Pandur (4.5), Ajayi (4), Egan (5), Slater (5.5), Gelhardt (6.5), Belloumi (6.5) – brightest of Hull’s group
Many struggled as defensive lapses proved costly.
Middlesbrough
Whittaker (8.5), Gilbert (8.5), McGree (7.5), Targett (7.5), Bangura (7.5), Strelec (7.5)
Sharp, clinical, and dominant across the pitch.
League Impact
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Middlesbrough remain in the automatic promotion spots heading into the weekend fixtures.
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Hull City sit 9th, with goal difference taking a major hit after their heaviest home defeat of the season.
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