Villa earned another useful away point but, as at York on Saturday, they again had to soak up considerable pressure before John Robson equalised after Ken Wagstaff had given Hull the lead.

In the first 30 minutes, Villa conceded eight corners as Hull attacked relentlessly but were rescued on three occasions by goalkeeper Jim Cumbes, who made superb saves from John Hawley.

Hawley plagued Villa with a series of runs and some sharp shooting, and it was just as well that Cumbes was at his best.

Villa made only one note-worthy attack in the first half. Frank Carrodus, their recent £90.000 transfer from Manchester City, who had taken a couple of knocks early on, drew the generally compact Hull defence out of position before crossing to Ray Graydon, who shot over from six yards. They were well held in midfield and Chris Nicholl and his co-defenders were put under considerable pressure.

Ron Saunders’ half-time pep talk rejuvenated Villa, who, within a minute of the resumption, almost snatched the lead.

A smart attack, instigated by John Gidman, who was booked in the 43rd minute for a tackle on Greenwood, enabled Brian Little to severely test Hull goalkeeper Geoff Wealands. who could only push out his fierce shot.

The ball flew Into the path of Chico Hamilton, whose first time shot hit the bar.

With Villa showing much more authority in midfield, their attacks increased.

Sammy Morgan made his presence felt with a splendid shot, which brought an equally fine save from Wealands.

Cumbes, after a spell of inactivity, made a fine save to keep out a hard drive from Greenwood but Hull, having regained their confidence, took the lead in the 73rd minute when Wagstaff shot well wide of Cumbes’s right hand.

Villa, undaunted by this reverse, gained a smart equaliser five minutes later, Robson shooting into the net from close range.