However, a seemingly obvious switch of position unlocked the key to getting end product from the talented, if raw, youngster who promised so much in pre-season.
Nearing half-time the right-footed Hammill moved from left to right. Left-footed Surman went from right to left. Whether it was manager or player that initiated the switch, it was the stuff of manager's dreams.
Almost immediately a perfect cross sailed over from Hammill for Bradley-Wright Phillips to head home for the opener. Hammill wasn't done yet and managed to provide two more assists as he finally added end product to the twinkling feet.
A right footer on the right and a left footer on the left, gave Saints more width and ammunition for the strikers. It prevented the wingers constantly cutting in field restricting the space in midfield and bending crosses into the keeper's arms.
Football in the Championship really doesn't need to be that complicated, but Burley has made it seem so with some puzzling positional switches over the season. Midfielders as full backs, central midfield players out on the flanks and even in central defence.
Saints have the players to play with two wingers and the strikers to finish off the chances, they simply need to be allowed to do so.
Whether the Hull game was a one-off or a watershed moment, time will tell, but hopefully Burley will persevere with the switch and keep Surman or Skacel on the left, Hammill or Dyer on the right and reap the benefits.
4-0 was a good place to start.