Belloumi earns Hull draw with Everton after thrilling four-goal second half

Hull City salvaged a 2-2 draw at Everton’s MKM Stadium after a dramatic second half that produced four goals. Joe Gelhardt gave the visitors the lead in the 49th minute, exploiting a mistake by Everton right‑back Ainsley Maitland‑Niles to chip past goalkeeper Jordan Pickford. Hull’s response came quickly as Maitland‑Niles crossed with pinpoint accuracy for Kiernan Dewsbury‑Hall, whose header restored parity and marked the first goal Hull had conceded at the venue this season, following a VAR‑overturned opener from Brennan Johnson for off‑side in the first half. Everton regained the advantage in the 68th minute when Thierno Barry finally capitalised on a loose pass from Sorba Thomas, finishing past Konstantinos Tzolakis after a sequence involving Dewsbury‑Hall. The home side’s comeback was completed six minutes later when substitute Mohamed Belloumi, introduced after the international break, slotted a low shot past Pickford to level the score.

The match highlighted Everton’s continued unbeaten run in the Premier League, now six games, while exposing defensive frailties that allowed Hull to claw back twice. Hull’s early dominance was punctuated by a VAR decision that nullified Johnson’s goal, underscoring the fine margins that shaped the contest. Everton created eight clear‑cut chances, yet five fell to Barry, whose missed tap‑in in the 60th minute illustrated the visitors’ inability to convert opportunities. Hull’s resilience, particularly after conceding, was evident in their quick equaliser and the decisive impact of Belloumi, who had been sidelined for fatigue before being thrust on as a “dangerous” sub.

Post‑match reactions reflected mixed emotions. Everton manager expressed frustration, lamenting the lack of performances that met his expectations and criticizing defensive lapses that permitted Hull’s comeback. Hull head coach Sergej Jakirovic praised his side’s mentality and the ability to secure a point despite two costly errors, while acknowledging Everton’s tactical discipline and strength in central defence. The draw leaves Everton unbeaten but vulnerable, and Hull gains a valuable away point, keeping their own season aspirations alive as both clubs look ahead to their next fixtures.

⚡ Effects Interpreter