Brad Rial picks out the key talking points from Hull City's 1-1 draw with Everton. Lots of spirit in the performance and by scoring has Sone Aluko now pushed himself back into the first team frame?Aluko the game-changer
After Saturday's feeble showing at Manchester United, a back-to-basics approach was what was needed for Hull City at Everton last night.
Steve Bruce responded by recalling some of the old guard in Stephen Quinn, David Meyler and Liam Rosenior, but it was Sone Aluko who had the greatest impact off the bench.
Aluko's introduction in the 53rd minute duly changed the course of the game. Prior to that point, City had put up a decent performance but Mohamed Diame was struggling to make the ball stick in the final third.
When Aluko replaced the Senegalese midfielder, he breathed new life into City's attack. His equalising goal, just six minutes after coming on, was superb.
After receiving a neat pass from Nikica Jelavic – who benefitted hugely from the presence of his former Rangers teammate – he ghosted past Sylvain Distin before finishing coolly under Tim Howard. It was the Sone Aluko of old.
A minute later, he was at it again. He bamboozled Distin once more before delivering a tempting cross for Jelavic. The Croatian's header was inches wide of Howard's post.
Post-match, Steve Bruce said that this is the first time Aluko has played and trained injury-free since his Achilles injury.
Bruce, City fans and Aluko's teammates alike will be hoping that the Nigerian can now stay fit. For when he is on form, there are fewer players easier on the eye in the City squad. Last night was a reminder of the quality Aluko possesses. Now he needs to use that as a benchmark to really stake a claim.Quinn typifies City spirit
Stephen Quinn was one of four changes to the starting XI last night and the Irishman put in the kind of performance that supporters have come to expect.
The midfielder has a terrier-like determination and is deceptively strong. When you couple that doggedness with a left foot as cultured as Quinn's, you have a very useful player on your hands.
He was more than useful last night. Especially in the second half, he typified City's spirit. His tireless running and unselfish off-the-ball work may not have made the Match of the Day highlights reel but every side needs its grafters.
Quinn's energy has been sorely missed in recent weeks and his presence was keenly felt at Everton.Meyler an unsung hero
David Meyler is a fine footballer and there are many facets to his game. He is tough-tackling, can pick a pass and also has a goal or two in him.
Perhaps his greatest trait, though, is his unerring ability to buy a free kick in the dying stages of a match to relieve the mounting pressure on his side.
He did just that after 83 minutes last night, just as the hosts were starting to turn the screw. The incident saw Meyler substituted off with an injury and exemplified his commitment to the cause.
He is prepared to sacrifice himself for the sake of the team – something that couldn't be said of too many of the side that started on Saturday.
It was Meyler's Premier League start of the season and he looks to have done enough to ensure it won't be his last.Stick or twist ahead of Saturday?
Liam Rosenior was the third of the so-called "Championship players" to start at Goodison and he put in a typically dependable performance. In a makeshift left back role, he nullified the threat of Seamus Coleman well and got forward to good effect when required.
The dilemma for Steve Bruce is whether to stick or twist ahead of Saturday's visit of West Brom. At least one change will be enforced, with Diame looking to be out for a while. Aluko's efforts should see him be his direct replacement.
Quinn, Meyler and Rosenior also deserve to keep their places but would the same formation work against the Baggies? Against Everton, City's plan to frustrate the opposition worked to a tee. They soaked up pressure and pounced when they where on top themselves.
On Saturday, though, the onus will be on the Tigers to attack with an expectant KC crowd in attendance.
The notable omissions against the Toffees were Curtis Davies, Robbie Brady and Andy Robertson. Such were the efforts of those that played instead last night; the trio may have to wait for a return.
