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May 5, 2013

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Hull back in top division

HULL City returned to the Premier League yesterday by clinching a runner-up finish in England's second tier ahead of Watford on a dramatic final day of missed penalties, late goals and high tension.

After missing and then conceding a converted penalty in injury time to draw 2-2 with already-promoted Cardiff City, Hull would have been denied the other automatic promotion place in the League Championship if Watford had beaten Leeds United.

However, Watford conceded a late goal because of an error by its substitute goalkeeper to lose 1-2 and finish two points behind Hull. Watford's match ended late because of a lengthy first-half injury delay, with Hull forced to wait to learn its fate.

"I have been around the block but I don't think I have ever witnessed anything like that," said Hull manager Steve Bruce, a Manchester United player. "It's put us through the ringer."

Watford, which is managed by former Italy and Chelsea forward Gianfranco Zola, still has a chance to go up via the playoffs that will also feature Brighton, Crystal Palace and Leicester.

Hull was relegated from the Premier League in 2010 after a two-year stay. The club is owned by Egyptian-born businessman Assem Allan, following his takeover in December 2010.

Cardiff had already secured promotion to the Premier League as champions.




 

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