Hull City stun Man United with 2-0 opening-day win

A lacklustre Man Utd were left stunned as they slipped to a 2-0 defeat to newly-promoted Hull City in their Premier League season opener at the MKM Stadium.

There was plenty of optimism around United, who finished last season strongly under Michael Carrick, heading into the season, but that bubble was quickly burst in Hull as Semi Ajayi capitalised on defensive issues (17) to poke home the opener from close range.

In an interview Sky Sport before the game, Hull owner Acun Ilicali revelled in the fact everyone was writing his side off this season and backed by a buoyant atmosphere, the Tigers, who were playing in the top-flight for the first time since 2017, played with real confidence.

Physically, Man Utd struggled to cope with the intensity Hull were playing at.

Every time Hull went forward, Man Utd looked unsure at the back, and the pressure eventually told again as Nobel Mendy powered a header past Senne Lammens to double the lead (38).

Carrick sent for Marcus Rashford for the second half – his first competitive appearance for United in 618 days – but the England forward’s introduction didn’t have the desired impact.

Man Utd’s only real chance in the second half came through Bryan Mbeumo, but his shot was well saved by goalkeeper Konstantinos Tzolakis.

In reality, Man Utd hardly laid a glove on Hull, who looked comfortable as they cruised to a first Premier League victory over United that leaves Carrick already looking for answers, with Sky Sports readers calling for defensive reinforcements with around 10 days remaining in the transfer window.

WARNING! All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express permission from ZAMBIA MONITOR.