Herrington cops Premier League lesson as Hull crashes
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Craven Cottage: Lucas Herrington has learnt the harsh realities of the Premier League after he was yellow carded and substituted at half-time in Hull’s 1-0 loss to Fulham.
Herrington managed to stop numerous Fulham attacks during the first half at Craven Cottage with Hull only having 21 per cent of possession.
Lucas Herrington at Craven Cottage. Getty Images
However, when a change in tactics beckoned with Hull going from five at the back to four, he was always set to be substituted due to his card.
Herrington confirmed to nine.com.au and Stan Sport post-match that it was a tactical decision, with the centre back having no injury issues.
“The coaching staff thought it’s what was best for the team ... no complaints, whatever is best for the team is the best decision,” he said.
His manager Sergej Jakirović also said it was due to the yellow card while maintaining his praise for the defender.
Fulham came into the match desperate to lift themselves off the bottom of the ladder having not won a match all season.
Despite creating numerous chances, the Cottagers couldn’t break the low block of Hull which also brought about Herrington’s yellow card in the 22nd minute for a desperate challenge.
The frustration ended up turning into euphoria in the 33rd minute when Alex Iwobi hit a long shot that found the back of the net.
Fulham manager Alvaro Arbeloa cut a stone-faced look after the goal was scored having watched his team squander leads on three occasions this season.
At half-time, the statistics read in Fulham’s favour with the home side having 79 per cent possession, hitting 10 shots with three on target and taking seven corners.
Hull only had two shots, none on target and one corner.
The change in tactic from Hull opened up the match considerably with both sides creating chances.
Fulham had the more clear-cut opportunities but couldn’t find the back of the net with Hull goalkeeper Konstantinos Tzolakis earning his wage.
Ultimately, the biggest drama wouldn’t hit until stoppage time when Fulham’s Ryan Sessegnon was sent off late.
The one-man advantage was only for a minute with Fulham holding on for a much-needed victory.
Iwobi described the feeling to nine.com.au and Stan Sport as “relief” before looking towards his next match against Coventry where he’ll come up against his former manager at Everton, Frank Lampard.
Alex Iwobi after his goal. Getty Images
“We know it’s not going to be easy, another away game against my old manager Frank Lampard as well,” he said.
“I’m excited for that ... I’m always grateful for him, he always tries to deny it, but I say he resurrected my career at Everton.”
Hull’s next match will be against Brentford at home.
