In a match of contrasting Hull City performances in either half, Tigers' manager Mike Phelan admitted that a draw was the fairest outcome for both teams.

"We set up to try and contain West Brom"

Phelan claimed that his side did not employ a tactic of attacking Tony Pulis' side and that was the reasoning behind their lack of creatvitiy in the first half. He suggested "we set up to try and contain West Brom at times", although the home faithful were disappointed that Hull did not have one shot in the opening 45 minutes, jeering the home side off the pitch at half-time.

However, the Hull manager was disappointed at the manner of which his team conceded the opening goal. He suggested "we went in 1-0 down from a set-piece, which if we do our jobs properly shouldn't happen". Despite a disappointing first half, Phelan expressed his opinion that the "belief was there for the players".

Phelan cut a frustrated figure at times (photo: Getty Images)
Phelan cut a frustrated figure at times (photo: Getty Images)

"I made a change and it seemed to do the trick"

Hull produced a much better second half display and Phelan believed he was due some credit after replacing Ryan Mason with Adama Diomande at the break. He claimed "in the second half we upped our tempo."  Phelan added, "I made a change and it seemed to do the trick". However, he admitted that the final result was a fair reflection of the game. Phelan stated "overall our just rewards was the draw".

The Tigers' manager defended his decision not to go attacking throughout the game, despite the need for points and holding home advantage. Phelan commented "it is easy to say let's go gung-ho and throw loads of forwards on the pitch, but I think they were value for money first half and we were value for money second half".

Hull remain in the relegation zone but are now level on points with the two teams above them. They will be relishing the opportunity of turning their attentions to the EFL Cup on Tuesday evening.

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