The last time Hull City secured a victory in London was during their championship-winning season in League One, when they triumphed 3-0 at Plough Lane against Wimbledon in February 2021—nine matches ago.
Trips to the capital have often been lengthy and disappointing for the City fans making the journey to the Thames. However, all that was forgotten on Tuesday night, as Tim Walter’s team of 2024 claimed a convincing 3-1 win at QPR.
Those supporters who braved the dreadful weather and high ticket prices were undoubtedly thrilled to see their team prevail at Loftus Road, especially after witnessing some disheartening performances in recent seasons under Shota Arveladze and Liam Rosenior.
Initially, it seemed like the game might take a familiar turn, with Rangers aggressively attacking early on. But goalkeeper Ivor Pandur stood strong, his resolve helping Walter’s squad establish a foundation to secure the victory with goals from Cody Drameh, Chris Bedia, and Liam Millar.
Only a penalty from Rangers, which hit the crossbar, managed to get past “pink Pandur,” as Walter affectionately referred to him after the match, alluding to the bright fluorescent goalkeeper kit he wore. This performance will surely be remembered as another key moment in Walter’s improving Tigers.
Winning feels good, doesn’t it?
Let’s face it: City hasn’t had many victories in recent months, including the end of last season. However, it’s been away from home that they’ve found the most success in 2024. No team in the Championship has won more away games than the eight victories City has secured, which they share with Leeds United.
Watching City play at home has often been more of a chore than a joy. Yet, with three consecutive wins for only the second time this calendar year, the smiles among the fans are evident. There’s something particularly special about an away victory, especially hundreds of miles from home on a rainy Tuesday night.
It’s been a tough few weeks, stretching back to last season when City fell short of making the top six. Regaining that winning feeling is crucial, and achieving it with flair and goals makes it even more enjoyable. Here’s hoping this positive momentum continues!
Pandur’s performance
The topic of goalkeeping has sparked plenty of discussion in recent months, especially from Hull City owner Acun Ilicali. With the arrivals of Anthony Racioppi and Carl Rushworth, many expected Ivor Pandur to lose his starting position. However, it seems that Pandur himself had other plans. He has put in the effort and is determined to keep hold of the number one shirt, and based on his recent performance, he will be difficult to displace.
From the very first minute, Pandur was outstanding. It’s not an exaggeration to say that City could have easily found themselves 4-0 down within the first six minutes if not for his impressive saves. After that initial onslaught, he continued to excel, showcasing excellent game awareness, handling, and distribution. His performance laid the foundation for City to achieve their victory.
It’s safe to say that this was one of the best all-around goalkeeping displays I’ve seen in quite some time. It’s encouraging to witness how Pandur has developed in recent weeks, embracing the challenge and giving it his all.
Wing wizardry
We talked a lot last season about wingers, how City were impacted when Jaden Philogene was injured, and how Anass Zaroury didn’t really live up to the billing, but this season, they’re in a different place, and arguably one that’s healthier.
They might not have Philogene, but in Liam Millar and Mohamed Belloumi, they have two wingers who are starting to find their groove in the Black and Amber.
Belloumi may not have got on the scoresheet at Loftus Road, but he was largely unplayable, while on the other flank, Millar’s intent was obvious from the get-go, determined to run at his man and try and make things happen. His first City goal was nothing more than his performance deserved, and in truth, you felt it was coming given how he played.
Going forward with Millar, Belloumi and Abu Kamara, City have a plethora of options out wide, they have threats, pace and balance and not too many sides will relish coming up against them.
And above all else, they’re exciting to watch, aren’t they?
Way too open
Walter’s team is undoubtedly making significant strides in their attacking play. After a lackluster start to the season that saw City averaging just three shots on target in their opening matches, they have turned things around and now pose a genuine threat, creating numerous chances.
However, concerns persist at the defensive end. Despite winning three consecutive games and the optimism that comes with those results, the Tigers are still allowing too many opportunities for the opposition, which is something Walter will want to address.
In their victory against Stoke, City conceded 14 attempts on goal, while in the 4-1 win over Cardiff City, the Bluebirds managed 16 shots, and QPR recorded 21 attempts. That totals to 51 shots faced across three matches. Although they have only conceded three goals from those efforts, this trend could lead to issues down the line.
Walter’s attacking style naturally invites the opposition to create chances, but against stronger teams, being this generous might become problematic.
Looking strong
City’s starting XI featured three changes from the team that defeated Cardiff City on Saturday, with Xavier Simons, Kasey Palmer, and Liam Millar coming in for Oscar Zambrano, Abdus Omur, and Marvin Mehlem. Walter was able to bring on the latter trio late in the game, with Zambrano making a notable impact in midfield.
These changes were primarily rotational, keeping Saturday’s trip to Norwich in mind, and they highlighted the depth of Walter’s squad, with Charlie Hughes and Joao Pedro yet to make their appearances this season.
While City was gearing up for their match in London, the Under-21s secured their fifth consecutive win by beating Coventry City away, with Gustavo Puerta scoring for Conor Sellars’ side. This adds to the array of options available to Walter, which will be vital as the season progresses, particularly during the winter months when the pitches become heavier. Fans can also hope for an FA Cup run to add excitement to the season—it’s a dream worth holding onto!
Off to Carrow Road, we go
Always one of the most daunting away trips for any team in the Championship, Saturday’s visit to Carrow Road will be another stern test of their progress, and probably the toughest road trip so far, aside from Leeds United.
That said, City are in form, they have momentum with them and the Canaries will be concerned having seen City notch 10 goals in three games, including six in their last two on the road.
Challenges will get tougher in the next few weeks, but if the Tigers can go to Carrow Road and come away with a positive result, something they struggle to do at the home of the Canaries. Since their last win in 2010, the Tigers have lost four and drawn one. losing their last three in a row.
The omens are good, however, given City hadn’t won in London in eight attempts, or at QPR in five years before Tuesday night, so you just never know.
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