After last week's unexpected point at Tottenham, the Tigers came crashing down to earth with a pretty hefty bump at Old Trafford on Saturday. The first four-timer of Wayne Rooney's career leaves Hull anchored in the relegation zone, having played more matches than all their rivals. Wins are vital. And as Hull's next three games - against Wolves, Chelsea and Manchester City - are all at home, Brown is looking for a decent return. "I am still very optimistic," he said. "Manchester United away is not a game that will define our season. "But after the Wolves game we have Chelsea and Manchester City. That is three games at the KC Stadium. "Our fans are proving to be a 12th man at this moment in time. "The KC Stadium was not a fortress last season but we have to make sure it becomes one in the next week and we get something from every game." On the latter two occasions at least, it will not be easy. Wolves are a different proposition, directly above Hull in the table, near enough to be overhauled if three points can be achieved next weekend. "The sixteen games to go are a massive challenge and we are going to be judged on these next three," said Brown. It must be a worry for Brown that he detected a lack of belief among his troops yesterday, particularly as United started to get edgy as the second period wore on and the gap remained only one. Yet the Hull coach, who denied the legal battle that has erupted over former chairman and chief executive Paul Duffen had any effect on his players, is still backing his squad. "I don't think there was enough belief that we could come here and get something but I do see enough to feel we can fight our way out," said Brown. "We have a full week's preparation in front of us to play a side we are capable of beating. "But we need to be at our best, with and without the ball, against Wolves next week."
