Crystal Palace v Hull City: New strike duo could be the right combination for Tigers

The Tigers sit second behind leaders Cardiff City in the Championship after a five-goal romp against Birmingham City on Saturday.

Two goals apiece from debut-maker George Boyd and Egyptian Gedo did the bulk of the damage.

Both players were drafted into the Hull team as injuries hit regular strikers Sone Aluko and Matty Fryatt.

But they formed an instant partnership on Saturday – it was the first home match in five years in which Hull had scored five time – and Bruce hopes they can deliver further goals to clinch automatic promotion.

“I thought the front two put on a wonder show,” said Bruce, who takes his side to promotion rivals Crystal Palace tonight. “Especially George Boyd. His work-rate, his effort, his intelligence, the whole thing – he looked the real deal and it was a great start for him.

“I’ve always been a big admirer of him, but I didn’t realise he was that good. He was certainly worth the money people have paid to come and watch.”

It was the perfect response after a shock 4-1 defeat at Bolton as Hull made it four wins from five.

Bruce said: “The one thing we wanted as a team after the previous game was a response and what you need after a disappointment is to dust yourselves down, roll your sleeves up and be determined.

“We played with an intensity which was too much for Birmingham at times. When you play with intensity and desire, stacked with a bit of ability, then you’ve got a chance.”

Many Tigers fans feel Robert Koren is most effective playing deep, and Bruce’s tactical switch to accommodate Boyd and Gedo certainly worked.

“When you make a change tactically, you hope it works,” added Bruce.

“I moved David Meyler into the defensive midfield role to compete with (Nikola) Zigic and he gives us that physical presence in there. We needed more of a goal threat at home as well, so Koren dropped a bit deeper and that worked for him.

“It’s his favourite position, but he deserves a big pat on the back because recently he’s ploughed alone up top.”

Bruce reported no new injuries to his starting XI, but Tom Cairney – a substitute on Saturday – picked up an injury yesterday morning in training and is set to miss out tonight.

The Tigers’ home game against Bristol City has been switched to Friday, April 19 (7.45), to be televised live on Sky Sports.

Last six games: Crystal Palace WDWWLW, Hull City LWWWLW.

Last time: Crystal Palace 0 Hull City 0; March 17, 2012; Championship.

Referee: M Haywood (W Yorkshire).