Boro's big failings are to the fore for boss Hellberg

MIDDLESBROUGH'S cushion on second place was reduced as they lost to Hull City to end 2025, while Ipswich Town secured victory at Coventry City.

- By CRAIG JOHNS

Darko Gyabi slides in the only goal of the game at the Riverside

(HARRIET MASSEY)

Though Boro suffered a defensive injury crisis for the game, it was, once again, their problems at breaking defences down at the other end of the pitch that was once again their undoing, as Darko Gyabi's 12-minute goal sealed a 1-0 win for Hull at the Riverside.

Kim Hellberg made three changes from Boxing Day, two of which were enforced as Boro's injury problems continued.

Alan Browne came in for Micah Hamilton in the unenforced change after Hamilton's struggles against Blackburn, with Hayden Hackney playing in a more advanced role.

But, concerningly, on the injury front, neither Alfie Jones nor George Edmundson made the game, while Dael Fry and David Strelec were also added to the injury list. It meant Boro had four fullbacks in defence, with Matt Targett fit to move to the middle, while Alex Bangura came in at left-back.

Kaly Sene joined Tommy Conway in attack.

Boro's injury problems showed with virtually Hull's first attack of the game.

After a bright enough Boro start, they were behind after 12 minutes.