RAMIREZ STRIKE SEES OFF LACKLUSTRE HULL

Gaston Ramirez’s header was enough for Middlesbrough to see off a lacklustre Hull side 1-0 in the Premier League on Monday Night Football.

The hosts dominated for much of the 90 minutes and could have scored more, but a header from the former Tigers man on the hour mark sealed a much-needed three points for Aitor Karanka’s men.

Boro had a first-half goal from Viktor Fischer disallowed for offside, while Hull only pushed for an equaliser in the final 10 minutes but were unable to find the breakthrough.

Middlesbrough’s second home win of the season sees them up to 13th - four points clear of the relegation zone - while Hull stay second from bottom. Middlesbrough’s second home win of the season sees them up to 13th - four points clear of the relegation zone - while Hull stay second from bottom

The hosts had their first effort of the opening period in the eighth minute as Ramirez surged down the right flank, finding Marten de Roon at the top of the box. He took one touch to put the ball into the path of Alvaro Negredo - but the striker could only fire over the crossbar from six yards out.

Ramirez was again involved three minutes later as he fired a storming effort towards goal after a delightful back heel from Adam Forshaw, but Hull stopper David Marshall made a great leaping save to deny him before Sam Clucas shot over the crossbar at the other end in one of only a handful of firsthalf chances for the visitors.