Aston Villa boss Martin O'Neill spelt out his
delight at securing European football for a second successive
season as Hull were beaten 1-0.
John Carew struck his 14th goal of the campaign 11 minutes
before the interval to lift Villa back into fifth spot in the
Premier League.
But more importantly the three points ensured that Villa will be
competing in the revamped Europa League.
But Hull continue to find themselves deep in relegation trouble
after another setback means they have taken just two points from
the last seven matches.
O'Neill said: "This victory has confirmed European football for
the second year running which is an achievement in itself.
"Some years ago this club used to feast on European seasons but
there has been a bit of a famine recently.
"We can't finish worse than sixth - the same position as last
year - but we can still get fifth spot and that is the aim.
"There is obviously a tinge of disappointment at not keeping the
battle going for fourth place but maybe now we can throw the
shackles off and try and win the last few games."