Standout star seals Hull win with early strike | OneFootball

Darko Gyabi struck in the 12th minute to give Hull City a 1-0 win at Middlesbrough.

He arrived between the lines to sweep a left-footed finish into the bottom left after a neat lay-off from Kyle Joseph, turning pressure into the only goal Boro could not answer.

From there, Gyabi's work rate anchored Hull's shape. He won possession seven times, made an interception and two clearances, and used his frame to win two aerial duels as Boro were pushed wide.

The midfielder finished with one attempt and one goal, plus two successful dribbles, a tidy passing night and two fouls won, small moments that helped Hull manage territory when they needed respite.

Because his early strike put Hull in front against a side that posted 23 attempts and 70.6% possession, Gyabi's mix of control and graft kept Boro at arm's length and allowed the visitors to lean on their defensive platform.

Hull host Stoke next. Boro visit Derby.