2-0 was the final scoreline of Wolves’ afternoon fixture against the Cherries. Despite a fast start, a disallowed early goal, numerous chances throughout, and a defensive performance that (mostly) doesn’t reflect the end result, Rob Edwards and his men found themselves in a familiar position after the final whistle: they lost. Finding moral victories as this nightmare of a season winds down may be difficult for some, but it’s all you really can do to keep yourself sane.
Good: Some promise on the wing
Jackson Tchatchoua’s recent performances have left a lot to be desired, so I was happy to see Edwards give Rodrigo Gomes the starting nod. The promising Portuguese caused problems on the right early on for Bournemouth. I’d like to see him in the starting XI more often. On the opposite side, Hugo Bueno continued to be a bright spot for Wolves. His cross in the 65th minute should have been an assist, but Tolu’s strike was one of many failed Wolves attempts inside the box.
Bad: Lack of bite in the final third
You can’t get shut out when you have 17 shots, four big chances, and 1.44 xG. That’s simply inexcusable. Petrovic made a few decent saves, most notably the aforementioned one in the 65th minute, but the quality of shots were collectively poor. Tolu has to be better if this really was Strand Larsen’s last appearance for the club.
Good: Going for it in the second half
It didn’t work out, but I applaud Edwards’ aggressive formation change with about 20 minutes left in the match. Playing for a draw does nothing for Wolves at this point, so you may as well throw everyone up front. It would be nice not to have to play from behind and need those types of changes, though.
Bad: Andre’s error
Wolves had all the momentum in their favour when an errant pass from Andre gave Bournemouth the opening goal. It was the crowning jewel of the Brazilian’s disappointing day that included another yellow card, his eighth of the season. There are plenty of players who are having down seasons, but the drop-off in the midfield (Joao Gomes wasn’t much better today, and he also got a yellow) might be the most surprising.
