EX-CELT IRVINE WELCOMES NEW BOSS WITH A WINNER

FORMER Celtic midfielder Jackson Irvine hit the winner to give Nigel Adkins victory on his debut as Hull City boss.

The Aussie international struck with 15 minutes to go as the home side completed a 3-2 comeback triumph over Brentford.

Adkins, who agreed an 18-month deal at the Championship side on Thursday, said: “The players were top drawer.

“Obviously, the results haven’t been going as well as we would have liked, but the players have done excellent on this occasion.

“They showed some great character and team spirit which is what you need first and foremost.

“It was a test of character going 1-0 down after the run of results we’ve had.

“The players deserve great credit. It’s a great start.”

The visitors took the lead two minutes after the break when David Myler turned a low cross beyond former Rangers keeper Allan McGregor, but Kamil Grosicki levelled.

Seb Larsson netted with a 25-yard free-kick to put the Tigers ahead in the 70th minute and ex-Ross County ace Irvine slotted in the points-clincher shortly afterwards.

John Egan pulled one back, but Hull, thanks to a wonder save by McGregor from Ollie Watkins in stoppage time, held out for their first win in eight games

Visiting gaffer Dean Smith said: “For 49 minutes, it wasn’t very difficult at all. Until Grosicki scores a wonder goal and it became a game-changer.

“We felt this was an opportunity for us to come and get three points and I felt like it was going to be.

“And then we pressed the self-destruct button.”

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