Luton Town took a crucial step toward Championship survival with a fortuitous 1-0 victory over relegation rivals Hull City, courtesy of an extraordinary own goal.
Just 12 seconds into the second half, Hull captain Lewie Coyle's clearance ricocheted off teammate Alfie Jones' face and into the net, leaving goalkeeper Ivor Pandur helpless.
The bizarre moment proved decisive as Luton held on for all three points.
Despite remaining in 23rd place, the win lifts Matt Bloomfield’s side level on points with Derby County and just one point from safety ahead of Saturday’s fixtures.
The Hatters have now picked up 10 points from their last five matches, building momentum in their battle to avoid back-to-back relegations.
For Hull, the defeat is a major setback. Ruben Selles’ team, struggling with the league’s worst home record, remain just three points above the drop zone.
Luton Seize Their Chance as Hull Falter
Luton, the lowest-scoring team in the Championship, had a golden opportunity to take an early lead but failed to capitalize.
Elijah Adebayo struck the post after a clever turn in the box, while captain Carlton Morris missed the target after breaking the offside trap.
Hull dominated possession but struggled to break down a determined Luton defense, with Mark McGuinness’ superb block denying Kasey Palmer’s goalbound effort.
Then, moments after the second half kicked off, fortune smiled on Luton.
Morris flicked on Thomas Kaminski’s long clearance, Adebayo nudged it into the box, and an unfortunate deflection off Jones sent the ball into Hull’s net.
Despite pressing for an equalizer, Hull failed to create many clear-cut chances.
Their best opportunity came in stoppage time when Charlie Hughes unleashed a powerful 25-yard strike, but Kaminski produced a brilliant save to preserve the win.
Survival Battle Heats Up
Luton now face a pivotal run of fixtures, with a home clash against promotion-chasing Leeds United next Saturday followed by crucial away trips to fellow strugglers Stoke City and Derby County.
Hull, meanwhile, must regroup quickly ahead of their trip to Sheffield Wednesday, knowing that their Championship status remains far from secure with just seven games left to play.