
Super Eagles defender, Semi Ajayi earned bragging rights over international teammate Taiwo Awoniyi as Hull City secured a hard-fought 1-0 Premier League victory over Coventry City at the CBS Arena. Fellow Nigerian international Frank Onyeka missed the clash for the visitors due to a minor knock.
Canadian winger, Liam Millar delivered the decisive blow late in the game, ensuring Hull City maintained their flawless start to life back in the English top flight. The result leaves Sergej Jakirovic’s men level on points with Manchester City at the summit of the league table, following their shock opening-weekend triumph over Manchester United.
For Frank Lampard’s Coventry City, the defeat proved to be a bitter pill to swallow. The hosts showed plenty of attacking endeavor but struggled to break down a well-marshaled Hull defense anchored by Ajayi.
Awoniyi, who recently joined the Sky Blues from Nottingham Forest in a summer transfer, led the attacking line with his usual industry. The Nigerian striker came closest to breaking the deadlock in the first half, but his close-range effort, which deflected goalward off his thigh, was expertly palmed away by Hull goalkeeper Konstantinos Tzolakis.
READ ALSO: Alive Television Rebrands As Alive News Network, Sets Sights On Pan-African Media Expansion
Coventry managed 11 attempts on goal throughout the contest, but only three tested the goalkeeper. Despite their heavy summer investment, the hosts often lacked the cutting edge required in the final third.
The game appeared destined for a goalless draw until the 82nd minute. Having missed a similar opportunity earlier by shooting wide instead of passing, Millar made no mistake when roles were reversed. Algerian winger Mohamed Belloumi played a perfectly timed through ball, allowing Millar to fire a clinical finish past Coventry goalkeeper Carl Rushworth.
The victory solidifies Hull City’s dream start to the campaign as they sit six points clear of early relegation predictions. The Tigers will carry massive confidence into their upcoming home fixture against Aston Villa at the MKM Stadium.
Conversely, Coventry’s defeat served as a harsh reality check. Despite a massive recruitment drive that includes more than £100 million spent on ten new players, including the recent acquisition of defender Ethan Pinnock, the club is still searching for its first Premier League victory since April 2001. Lampard’s squad will need to quickly find their rhythm in the coming weeks if they hope to secure their top-flight status after a 25-year absence.

