Hull City's Play-off Hopes Dented as Birmingham Snatch Late Draw

A spectacular late equalizer from Tomoki Iwata thwarted Hull City's bid for a crucial Championship win, as Birmingham City battled back to secure a 1-1 draw at the MKM Stadium. The hosts had taken the lead through Joe Gelhardt's 14th goal of the season, but Iwata's stunning 25-yard strike 13 minutes from time denied them a vital three points. The result extends Hull's winless run to four league games, their worst sequence of the season, and leaves them just two points ahead of seventh-placed Wrexham with three matches remaining. Gelhardt had given Hull hope of a league double over Birmingham with his 24th-minute goal, but the visitors' perseverance ultimately paid off. Birmingham boss Chris Davies felt his side deserved a point, praising their commitment and resilience, while Hull manager Sergej Jakirovic acknowledged the need for his team to be brave in their pursuit of a play-off spot.