Hull were always in control against Ipswich as they cruised to a 2-0 victory.
Hull were always in control against Ipswich as they cruised to a 2-0 victory at The KC Stadium.
Peter Taylor's improving outfit defied baltic conditions to play the more concise football in a performance that saw Nick Barmby steal the plaudits with a classy display.
Neither side had sufficient quality in the final third to find a first half opener but in the second period, ten minutes after the break, Barmby did just that with a cool finish.
A neat move arrived at the feet of the former England international and, with considerable poise, he ensured there was precious little festive cheer for Town chief Joe Royle.
Ipswich were never really at the races, and it could be a long season ahead if Royle fails to rejuvenate flagging spirits nor plays the transfer market shrewdly in January.
Royle's woes were compounded in the 70th minute as the pacey forays of Craig Fagan forged a chance and the former Colchester hit-man made no mistake as he slotted home with a side-foot finish.
Hull now leapfrog above Ipswich in the Championship table.
Click below for an individual match summary:
Hull City 2-0 Ipswich Town
