Hull City secure Premier League return with late McBurnie goal

Hull City secured promotion to the Premier League with a 1-0 victory over Middlesbrough at the KCOM Stadium. Oli McBurnie scored the decisive goal in stoppage time, ending the Tigers' six-year absence from English football's top tier. The match remained goalless until the 90th minute, when McBurnie converted a rebound after Middlesbrough goalkeeper Solly March had saved a James Tavernier cross. The late strike ensured Hull City finished the Championship season in second place, one point ahead of third-placed Middlesbrough. Hull City manager Liam Rosenior reflected on the dramatic finish, stating the team's resilience throughout the campaign was key to securing automatic promotion. The victory capped a season of consistency, with the Tigers losing only five league games all season. Middlesbrough, who had already secured a playoff spot, finished the match with a strong late push but failed to find an equalizer. The defeat leaves them three points behind Hull City, missing out on direct promotion by a narrow margin. The result means Hull City will return to the Premier League next season, replacing Leicester City, who were relegated after a single season back in the top flight. Middlesbrough now face a playoff semi-final against either Coventry City or Sunderland. Fans inside the KCOM Stadium erupted in celebration following McBurnie's stoppage-time winner, marking the end of a tense season. Social media erupted with reactions as Hull City supporters celebrated their team's return to the elite division. For Middlesbrough, the loss ends their hopes of automatic promotion, though they retain an opportunity to reach the Premier League via the playoffs. The match also marked the final Championship game for Hull City captain Lewie Coyle, who will leave the club after the season. Hull City's promotion comes after years of rebuilding under Rosenior, who has overseen a steady rise from League One to the Premier League in just four seasons.