Connect with us

Latest News

Semi Ajayi shines as Hull City secure dramatic comeback win over Stoke

Published

on

Semi Ajayi shines as Hull City secure dramatic comeback win over Stoke

By Oyediji Oluwaseun Babatunde

Semi Ajayi delivered a standout performance, scoring his first goal of the season and playing a key role in Hull City’s determined 2–1 comeback victory over Stoke City in the EFL Championship on Saturday.

The Nigerian defender proved influential at both ends of the pitch.

After an early setback for Hull, Ajayi sparked the revival with a composed finish, leveling the score and shifting momentum in his team’s favour.

Beyond his goal, he anchored the backline with authority, registering four ball recoveries, one crucial interception, six clearances, and a key tackle to help preserve the lead.

Stoke had taken the lead in the 17th minute through Sorba Thomas, but Hull responded strongly.

Ajayi’s equalizer, set up by Algeria’s Mohamed Belloumi, restored belief before Joe Gelhardt struck a dramatic winner in the 90th minute to complete the turnaround.

Ajayi’s compatriot, Babajide David Akintoka, was listed among the substitutes for Stoke but did not feature.

With the result, Hull City now sit seventh on the Championship table with 28 points from 18 matches.

The Tigers will aim to build on their momentum when they host Middlesbrough on December 5.

author avatar
Oluwaseun Oyediji
Oluwaseun Babatunde Oyediji is a multi-media sports journalist with over 10 years experience in Information Communication Technology (ICT), women's football, and beach soccer reportage.The prolific writer is the Media Assistant to Nigeria Beach Soccer League and Africa Beach Soccer Union as well as contributor on Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL) website.He has covered multiple national and international football tournaments including Championship of African Nations (CHAN 2020), CAF Women's Champions League (2023), and Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON 2023).Since 2021, Oyediji has covered the NWFL Premiership especially the season ending Super Six Playoffs.A member of Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Ogun state chapter is also the image maker of the Remo Sports Development Council under the leadership of Chief Falilat Ogunkoya and David Osuolale.