Football, bloody Hull, to misquote Sir Alex Ferguson. The first shock of the season came on the banks of the Humber and at the expense of Ferguson’s former club. Inspired for half a season under Michael Carrick, Manchester United were insipid at the beginning of his first full campaign in charge. “Bitterly disappointed,” he said as Hull showed their capacity for surprises was not confined to an unexpected promotion.
This was spectacular stuff from Sergey Jakirovic’s team and, amid the inquest into a dreadful United display, it should not be forgotten that the deserved winners were superb. Defiant in defence, ruthless when they glimpsed an opportunity, justifying their nickname with their tigerish approach to closing down, they carried their momentum from Wembley in May back home.
