And with maximum points taken from their last three games against challenging London opposition – Arsenal, Tottenham Hotspur and West Ham United, Brown’s straight-forward philosophy seems to be working.
‘Good basics’ are essential for survival in the premier league, which is the first key target of all newly promoted sides like Hull City. Doing the basics well - essentially being committed, dogged defensively and using set pieces – has served Bolton Wanderers well since their promotion in 2001.
Suitable signings
Making significant, suitable signings also helps to make that considerable step up to any division. Phil Brown recruited well in the summer, bringing in two experienced premiership players in George Boateng from Middlesborough and Sunderland’s Paul McShane on loan for the season.
Brazilian Geovanni from Manchester City already had a settling in season under his belt and his vision and eye for goal - that attracted former Manchester City manager Sven-Göran Eriksson to sign him last season – has been seen in his wonder goals against Arsenal and Tottenham.
The Geovanni signing was crucial for Hull. Having a well-organised and committed team is essential, but having that spark, that player that can turn a game on its head, can significantly increase a team’s self-belief and determination.
Brown’s loan signing of Guinean defender Kamil Zayatte also looks a shrewd one. He is powerful and quick, and won nearly every aerial challenge against Everton early on in the season.
Riding your luck
A bit of luck can also play a significant part in establishing a winning streak.
Phil Brown has been able to put out the same starting 11 for the previous three games, all of which they have won.
West Ham at the weekend spurned a fair share of chances to open the scoring and then to equalise. Valon Behrami shot just wide of the post, Craig Bellamy blazed over and Matthew Etherington volleyed into the side-netting.
Hull’s Kamil Zayatte could have made it two in the second half, however, when he broke away through the centre to fire a rising shot just over the bar.
The Tigers might have ridden their luck at times, relying on the profligacy of established premier league sides like Arsenal and West Ham United. But they have also been dogged and resilient, and produced some genius moments through their nimble Brazilian.
‘The Times’ sportswriter Nick Szczepanik ‘s choice of headline “Bubbly Hull City continue to float on air”, however, adds a cautious tone to this newly promoted side’s early success.
1 comment:
Very interesting. I find your take on this sport and Westham intruiging. Charotte
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