Tranmere had their problems in this crucial clash, losing two goalkeepers to injury during the match and having to play Theodore Whitmore in goal in the second half.

But the way Hull stormed to victory in the end, with Stuart Elliott scoring a hat-trick, made the match a thriller all the way.

Even manager Peter Taylor admits his side had plenty of luck on the day – but with City going for their second promotion in a row it has already been an exciting year for Hull fans.

No wonder star man Elliott, who has already scored 20 goals this season, is keen to stay despite interest from Premiership clubs.

"I cannot stress how much I enjoy playing at Hull," he said. "The chairman and manager have done a fantastic job here. We’re all determined to try to bring Hull promotion."

In the Premiership, Tottenham certainly deserve a mention for their demolition of Southampton, while both Chelsea and Manchester United were hot on the goal trail and Birmingham looked back to their best after beating West Brom 4-0.

In the Championship, Stan Ternent celebrated his first match in charge of Gillingham with a 3-1 victory over relegation rivals Rotherham. And in League 2, Swansea deserve a mention for their 4-0 win over Notts County, with Lee Trundle scoring a hat-trick.

In non-league football, FA Cup heroes Yeading strengthened their lead at the top of the Ryman Premier with a 3-0 home win over Cheshunt.