Hull City kept their home unbeaten run intact with a 2‑2 draw against Everton at the MKM Stadium, a result that will see the Tigers finish the season without a defeat before the international break. The match was a back‑and‑forth affair, with both sides exchanging goals and moments of brilliance, but Hull’s late comeback secured the point they needed to finish the campaign on a high note.
The first half was a tense opening for the hosts, who struggled to find rhythm against a disciplined Everton side. Ainsley Maitland‑Niles’ error at the start of the second half set the stage for Joe Gelhardt’s opener. Gelhardt, who had already been involved in a number of chances, capitalised on the mistake and calmly finished past Jordan Pickford in the 48th minute. Everton answered quickly, with Kiernan Dewsbury‑Hall heading in a cross from Thierno Barry in the 55th minute, putting the Toffees ahead. Barry, who had missed several opportunities earlier, managed to redeem himself later in the period when he struck a powerful shot past Pickford, giving Everton a 2‑1 advantage midway through the second half.
Hull’s response was swift and decisive. Substitutes Elliot Stroud and Mohamed Belloumi found a rhythm together, with Belloumi’s left‑footed strike in the 74th minute slipping past Pickford to level the score. The goal was a result of a well‑executed combination play that saw Stroud deliver a precise pass to Belloumi, who finished with composure. The draw meant that Hull remained unbeaten at home since their return to the Premier League, a record that has been a source of pride for the club and its supporters.
The match also highlighted the tactical adjustments made by Hull’s manager. The team had made several changes before the game, and the fresh legs of Stroud and Belloumi proved pivotal in the latter stages. Meanwhile, Everton’s early dominance was curbed by Hull’s defensive solidity and the ability to counter‑attack effectively. Despite the loss, Everton’s performance showed promise, but the result will leave them with a single defeat before the international break.
Looking ahead, Hull will enter the break with confidence, having secured a point against a top‑flight opponent and maintained their unbeaten home record. The club will aim to build on this momentum in the remaining fixtures, while Everton will need to address the gaps that allowed Hull to mount a late comeback. Both teams will be eager to finish the season on a positive note before the pause for international duty.