Mike Phelan can only hope that his players take away their positive performance from a nightmarish defeat against a West Ham side, who were second best to the Tigers throughout the game but still managed to steal the three points. Hull hit the post thrice throughout the game and also had a couple of goal-line clearances before a late penalty washed out their hard work and positive display.
The defeat has sent them to the bottom of the table.
Hull City Player Ratings
Marshall (7) – Made a brilliant save from a Dimitri Payet free kick. His collection of the ball was excellent and although he didn’t have much to do most of the time, he did well to keep his concentration strong.
Davies (7) – Had a crucial block from Payet early in the game when the Frenchman danced his way into the box before taking the shot. He blocked the meagre West Ham’s attacks in the first half.
Dawson (7.5) – Provided good service to Mbokani in the first half but the striker squandered both the chances. Recovered the ball 3 times and made 2 crucial blocks.
Maguire (7.5) – He had a busy game right from the start when he attempted to play a through ball to Mbokani who was ruled offside. His right footed shot from outside the box was saved in the bottom left corner early in the game, which looked dangerous. He should have really killed the game with the glorious chance that he got but failed to pass.
Robertson (7) – Really unlucky to hit the post from the left flank. It was smashed with good technique from the Huddlestone layoff. Made 3 successful tackles and 2 blocks.
Clucas (6.5) – Took some shots from outside the box, although it didn’t amount to much. Played some defence ripping passes to Mbokani but nothing really happened. Shouldn’t have missed that one on one with the goalie.
Livermore (6) – Although he was quite vibrant in the midfield recovering the ball 7 times, he mistimed his tackles and was booked for a bad foul. Phelan expects more from him. Was right to be subbed off early.
Elmohamady (6.5) – Tried to make things happen with his attempted through passes up front. His finely placed header was saved by Randolph in the second half.
Huddlestone (6) – His frustration is understood, but really should have shown more maturity given his huge experience. Contributed well otherwise, recovering the ball 7 times and tried to create chances
Snodgrass (7.5) – He is the man who pulls the strings for Hull. Provided a series of well-measured crosses throughout the game and gave witty layoffs, which provided dangerous chances for Hull players, but they couldn’t take it.
Mbokani (7) – Squandered a host of chances throughout the game but it’s his persistence that helped Hull a lot. Really should have scored in the first real chance from Cresswell’s faltering back pass, but instead, he hit the post. Made an exciting run in the second half but Clucas couldn’t make anything out of it.
