McKenna’s charge, Hull’s grit seal play-off drama

Ipswich secured Championship survival and top-flight return with a clinical display under Kieran McKenna, while Hull City fought their way into the play-offs with resilient late-season form. Sam Parkin’s analysis highlights McKenna’s man-management and Hull’s collective resilience as the defining factors in their respective campaigns. Ipswich’s promotion was sealed with a 2-0 victory over already-relegated Huddersfield, capping a campaign built on defensive solidity and incisive counterattacks.

Hull, meanwhile, edged out Coventry on goal difference after a nervy 1-0 win against Middlesbrough, with manager Liam Rosenior’s tactical adjustments proving decisive in the final stretch. McKenna’s Ipswich leaned on a disciplined backline marshalled by Conor Chaplin’s midfield control, while Hull’s late surge relied on the pace of Oli McBurnie and the composure of veteran goalkeeper Matt Turner. Parkin points to Ipswich’s ability to grind out results in tight games and Hull’s knack for rising to the occasion in must-win clashes as the bedrocks of their success.