Sebastian Larsson struck a superb 30-yard free-kick to ensure Nigel Adkins started his reign as Hull manager with a 3-2 victory over Brentford at the KCOM Stadium.
After the visitors went ahead though David Meyler's own goal in the 47th minute, Hull responded through Kamil Grosicki, Larsson and Jackson Irvine.
John Egan set up a nervy finish with three minutes remaining but Hull held on to bolster their survival hopes following the departure of Leonid Slutsky.
Derby moved up to fourth with a 3-0 victory at struggling Barnsley.