Boro fell a goal behind when Hull’s Allahyar Sayyadmanesh headed The Tigers ahead from a corner five minutes before half-time.
The hosts reacted well, though, scoring three times in a six-minute spell after goals from Hayden Hackney, Cameron Archer and Chuba Akpom.
Here’s how each Boro player fared at the Riverside:
1. Zack Steffen - 7
Made a sharp save to deny Regan Slater in the first half. Assisted Boro’s second goal with a ball upfield for Archer. 7 Photo: Mark Thompson
2. Tommy Smith - 5
Tucked in at right-back when Boro didn’t have the ball. Made a few interceptions but also conceded space when Hull attacked down that flank. Was subbed at half-time with an injury. 5 Photo: Lewis Storey
3. Darragh Lenihan - 6
Left space in behind him a few times but also stayed tight to Hull forward Adama Traore to keep the opposition player on the fringes. 6 Photo: Getty Images
4. Paddy McNair - 5
Allowed Hull players to run past him on a couple of occasions in the first half when the visitors looked bright. Was substituted in the second half. 5 Photo: Getty Images