Stan Cullis

Wolves 2-1 Aston Villa – Player Ratings

by with No Comment NewsPlayer Ratings

Wolves bounced back from their disappointing collapse against Leeds United with a sweet victory in the West Midlands derby against Aston Villa. A first half goal from Jonny Castro Otto combined with an Ashley Young own goal was enough to give Wolves all three points, but it was a nervy end to the game with Ollie Watkins pulling one back for Villa from the penalty spot five minutes from time. The score line certainly does not do Wolves’ performance justice and in truth, Bruno Lage’s men should have been out of site before the Villa goal. Ollie Watkins did have two golden chances earlier in the second half for Villa, but Jose Sa was equal to it. Wolves are firmly in the European hunt with just seven games to go, but they will need results elsewhere to go in their favour if they are to make it.

 

Jose Sa

Yet another superb display from Sa who played a huge role in Wolves’ victory in the second half. He made two excellent saves from Watkins and Cash to preserve the lead and can take little blame for what was a very dubious penalty. 8/10

 

Willy Boly

Recovered from a poor display against Leeds to show glimpses of the Willy Boly of old. For the most part he was calm and assured both with and without the ball. He did let Watkins in behind early in the second half but the England international placed his shot the wrong side of the post. 8/10

 

Conor Coady

An excellent display from Wolves’ captain who relishes these games and atmospheres. Coady was solid defensively and played a huge role in the final ten minutes as Wolves came under pressure with Villa searching for an equaliser. 8/10

 

Max Kilman

Restored to the side after being dropped for the defeat against Leeds. Kilman was impressive defensively and linked well with Moutinho and Dendoncker in possession too. Much more like it from Kilman following a difficult few games prior to the international break. 8/10

 

Jonny Otto

Two goals in two games for Jonny who has been a revelation since returning to the side in February. Playing on the right-hand side Jonny poses a far greater attacking threat than when on the left, combined with his usual assured defending, Jonny is proving just how much Wolves have missed him this season. 9/10

 

Joao Moutinho

Much was made about the absence of Ruben Neves prior to the game but Joao Moutinho certainly stepped up to the plate and delivered a masterclass in midfield play. His range of passing was excellent and almost everything Wolves did going forward came through him. Surely, he has one more year in him… 9/10

Leander Dendoncker

Dendoncker came into the side for the injured Neves and produced arguably his best performance of the season. Dendoncker was influential at both ends of the pitch and could have found himself on the scoresheet, but he sliced a good chance wide just before half time. 8/10

 

Marcal

Like Dendoncker, Marcal saved one of his best performances of the season for the derby at Molineux. He was relatively solid with few mistakes and produced an excellent cross for the second goal as Ashley Young could only divert into his own net. 8/10

 

Daniel Podence

Another good performance from Podence who was involved in almost every attacking move. He played a crucial role in the opening goal and got into several good positions, but the final ball and finish was often missing. 7/10

 

Fabio Silva

A rare start for Fabio Silva and the young forward certainly took his chance! Silva’s link up play was superb and played a huge role in Wolves’ victory. He will perhaps be disappointed with his chance just eight minutes into the game to put Wolves two goals to the good, but Silva can take great confidence from this display, continue this level of performance, and that goal will soon come. 8/10

 

Francisco Trincao

A deserved start after his impressive substitute appearance against Leeds and Trincao did not let Bruno Lage down. His final ball was at times frustrating, but his skill and trickery means Trincao took up some good positions and contributed to a huge result. 7/10

 

Subs:

Hwang Hee-Chan

A good cameo from Hwang who will be disappointed to see his effort mid-way through the second half go just wide of the post having done brilliantly to create the opportunity. His energy and intelligence in the press were important in the closing stages as Wolves held on to their lead. 7/10

 

Pedro Neto

An energetic cameo from Neto who was a useful outlet in the closing stages, getting Wolves up the pitch to relieve pressure on the back line. 6/10

 

Chiquinho

Came on for the final few minutes as Wolves held on for victory. N/A

 

Ciaran Barker is part of the Talking Wolves editorial team – you can follow him on Twitter here.

emirates

Arsenal 2-1 Wolves – Player Ratings

by with No Comment NewsPlayer Ratings

Wolves fell to a gut-wrenching late defeat at the Emirates Stadium on Thursday evening after a 95th minute Jose Sa own goal gave Arsenal their second victory of Bruno Lage’s men in just three weeks. Wolves started extremely well and took the lead through Hwang Hee Chan after just twelve minutes. However, Wolves failed to sustain their good start and were under pressure for most of the game. Despite all the possession, Arsenal created little in the way of clear-cut chances but drew level through Pepe with eight minutes to go. Just as the game looked to be closing out with an impressive draw for Wolves, Lacazette got the better of Romain Saiss, whose deflected effort was guided in by the outstretched arm of Sa. It was the worst possible way to lose a football match, but Wolves only have themselves to blame.

 

Jose Sa

An unusually nervy display from the Wolves shot stopper who did not look comfortable throughout the game. He came for a cross more than once but failed to claim and gave the ball away far too easily with his long distribution. He did pull off several good saves to make amends and could do little more with Lacazette’s late deflected strike. 6/10

 

Max Kilman

A solid defensive performance from Max Kilman who even had the acclaim of the Wolves fans in the second half. He, like many others, struggled to deal with the Arsenal press meaning Wolves lost possession in dangerous areas. 7/10

 

Conor Coady

Like Kilman, Coady was relatively solid throughout, but struggled to get a foothold in the game to keep possession. His surging run forwards in the second half was desperately unlucky to be pulled back for a ‘foul’ on Ben White. 6/10

 

Romain Saiss

Saiss struggled to deal with the pace of the Arsenal back line at times but often recovered with a last-ditch tackle in the area. He will be disappointed with his part in both goals as Lacazette got the better of him in the area. 5/10

 

Nelson Semedo

Dealt with almost everything that came his way defensively without having any real impact on the game with the ball. He was withdrawn on the hour mark with a hamstring injury. 6/10

 

Joao Moutinho

A poor performance from Moutinho who struggled with the pace and intensity of the game in the middle of the park. Wolves could not keep the ball in any area of the pitch but were also far too easy to get through in midfield. A game that perhaps highlights the lack of recruitment in midfield in recent transfer windows. 5/10

Ruben Neves

Failed to live up to the heights of recent performances, but this was no different to many others on the pitch. Neves tried to get on the ball and make things happen, but it simply would not stick for Wolves. He certainly tried to win the ball back wherever possible, but the Arsenal midfield were often too strong. 6/10

 

Rayan Ait-Nouri

One of Wolves’ better players on the pitch despite a few defensive mishaps. Looked to get on the ball wherever possible and wanted to get forward during the second half. His dangerous run in the final five minutes teed up Pedro Neto was a huge chance to win the game. 7/10

 

Daniel Podence

Wasn’t for the want of trying but Podence struggled to have any real impact on the game, not helped by the inability of his teammates to keep the ball around him. 6/10

 

Raul Jimenez

There was certainly some warranted criticism for Jimenez after another sub-standard performance. He has failed to kick on from his goal against Tottenham and this was a big contributing factor to Wolves’ poor performance. 5/10

 

Hwang Hee Chan

Easily Wolves’ best player on the pitch whose endeavour to press Arsenal high up the pitch and win the ball back in dangerous areas led to almost every chance Wolves created. He got his deserved early goal and could easily have had a second early in the second half. 8/10

 

Subs:

Jonny Castro Otto

A very welcome sight to see Jonny back on the pitch after his injury nightmare in the past two years. He played at right back replacing the injured Nelson Semedo and was solid for his half an hour cameo. More importantly he looked sharp and match fit, a huge boost for Wolves in the final third of the season. 7/10

 

Pedro Neto

Desperately unlucky not to put Wolves back in front with just minutes remaining in an effort that should have resulted in a corner. He was lively and, like Jonny, will be a massive boost for Wolves in the closing stages of the season. 7/10

 

Leander Dendoncker

Played the final moments of the game as Wolves tried and failed to hold on to their point. N/A

 

Ciaran Barker is part of the Talking Wolves editorial team – you can follow him on Twitter here.

1280px-Brentford_Community_Stadium_2020

Brentford 1-2 Wolves – Player Ratings

by with No Comment NewsPlayer Ratings

Wolves continued their good form with a 2-1 victory over Brentford in Wanderers first visit to the Brentford Community Stadium. It was a bizarre first half which saw 19 minutes of added time following a nasty clash of heads between two Brentford defenders before an ‘unofficial drone’ stopped play again. The second half however was all about the action on the pitch. A superb finish from Joao Moutinho put Wolves ahead before Ivan Toney converted a free kick to level the scores. The goal was the direct result of a foul by Toti Gomes who was initially sent off, but the decision was overturned by VAR. Wolves won it with twelve minutes to go with Ruben Neves’ 20-yard strike. Traore had the ball in the net in stoppage time in what was possibly his final game in a Wolves shirt, but Var ruled that he was just offside. Wolves now have a two week break before their next encounter, an FA Cup tie at home to Norwich.

 

Jose Sa

Sa had little to deal with in terms of shots on goal but commanded his area very well against a physical Brentford side. Wolves’ relative ease at defending throw ins and corners will partly be down to his organisation and dominance. 8/10

 

Max Kilman

Another good defensive performance from Kilman who has established himself as Wolves’ most consistent performer. He dealt with everything that was thrown at him and looked comfortable on the ball despite an intense Brentford press. 8/10

 

Conor Coady

Defended well and, like Kilman, managed to keep the ball well despite a high press. Coady will also have played a crucial role in ensuring the players did not lose concentration during long stoppages in the first half. 8/10

 

Toti Gomes

Kept his place after an impressive debut and certainly did not let the team down here. He defended well and did not look out of place at any moment. He will be relieved to see his red card overturned as it looks increasingly likely he will stay at Molineux for the rest of the season. 8/10

 

Nelson Semedo

An excellent performance from Semedo who continues his impressive upturn in form. He was arguably Wolves’ most influential player going forwards, using width to great effect and looking to link with the midfield where possible. It was his combination with Moutinho that led to the first goal and his good work down the right which created the second. 9/10

 

Leander Dendoncker

Kept his place in the starting XI despite the return of Ruben Neves as Bruno Lage opted for a three-man midfield to match their opponents. Dendoncker was incredibly effective defensively, easing the pressure on the back three acting as a last man in a low block midfield. He was also good in the air as Wolves dealt with Brentford’s set pieces with relative ease. 8/10

 

Joao Moutinho

A performance the oozed class as Moutinho continues to shine this season. His goal was one of real quality, finishing with the outside of his foot giving the keeper no chance. 9/10

Ruben Neves

Returned to the team following a COVID-19 related absence last week. He did not waste any time bedding back in and produced a masterclass in midfield play alongside Moutinho which ultimately provided the platform for Wolves to win the game. 9/10

 

Rayan Ait-Nouri

A quieter afternoon for Ait-Nouri with most Wolves’ play coming down the right-hand side. He dealt with everything that came his way and looks increasingly assured defensively. It is certainly not a foregone conclusion that Jonny will return to the team when fit given the form of Ait-Nouri. 7/10

 

Fabio Silva

Handed a rare Premier League start with Raul Jimenez missing out as a precaution. He was lively up front but had little impact on the game with the ball. 7/10

 

Daniel Podence

Like Silva, Podence was quiet and had little impact on the game with most of Wolves’ play coming from the midfield and Nelson Semedo. He did however work extremely hard to ensure Brentford could not play out from the back too easy. 7/10

 

Subs:

Adama Traore

There is a good chance that Adama Traore may have played his last game in a Wolves shirt, and it is certainly fitting that it was win if that is to be the case. He will no doubt be gutted that his goal with just minutes remaining was just offside, but Traore has been an excellent servant over 3 and a half years and will no doubt be missed. 8/10

 

Francisco Trincao

Played the final moments, providing fresh legs up front as Wolves looked to see out the win. N/A

 

Ciaran Barker is part of the Talking Wolves editorial team – you can follow him on Twitter here.

Steve Bull Stand

Wolves 3-1 Southampton – Player Ratings

by with No Comment Player Ratings

Wolves continued their good form with a 3-1 victory over Southampton at Molineux on Saturday. Wolves took the lead mid-way through the first half with a calmly dispatched Raul Jimenez penalty after a rare VAR intervention in Wolves’ favour. Jose Sa pulled off several good saves to maintain Wolves’ lead before Conor Coady netted in front of the Southbank to make it two. A stunning free kick from James Ward-Prowse gave the Saints hope with ten minutes to go, but substitute Adama Traore slotted home the third in stoppage time to round off the victory. Bruno Lage’s men remain eighth and are firmly in the hunt for a European place ahead of next week’s trip to Brentford

 

Jose Sa

Played a huge part in Wolves’ victory with two excellent saves before half time to maintain Wolves’ lead. He was calm and assured throughout and is finally getting the recognition he deserves in the media. 9/10

 

Max Kilman

Yet another superb defensive display from Wolves’ latest hero. Kilman did everything that was required of him with ease and looked assured on the ball. He was desperately unlucky to see his looping header hit the post, but with performances like this, those ‘Kilman for England’ chants will only get louder. 9/10

 

Conor Coady

Another good display from the Wolves captain who had a memorable moment with his goal in front of the Southbank in the second half. He doesn’t score many, but his goal is just reward for his fine form this season. 9/10

 

Toti Gomes

A surprise inclusion having been recalled from Grasshoppers at the start of January, but Gomes repaid the faith of Bruno Lage who admitted he did not know anything about the Portuguese defender at the beginning of the month. Defensively, he was brilliant, and despite giving the ball away in possession, Gomes had as good a debut as he could have hoped for. 8/10

 

Nelson Semedo

A quiet afternoon for the Wolves right wing back who was solid and linked play well. He didn’t have the attacking influence we have seen in recent weeks but another good performance none the less. 7/10

 

Leander Dendoncker

Kept his place in the starting XI as Ruben Neves missed out with COVID-19. The Belgian midfielder put in a good performance, breaking up play and proving an effective aerial presence. He did however, slow the pace of play down particularly in the first half. 7/10

 

Joao Moutinho

Continued his good form with another performance full of class and quality which we have come to expect. Moutinho orchestrated the midfield with ease despite the loss of Neves alongside him. 8/10

 

Rayan Ait-Nouri

Ait-Nouri produced another excellent display, and like many others is arguably in the best form of his Wolves career. He won the ball back on several occasions and linked play well going forwards.  8/10

 

Francisco Trincao

Trincao was largely anonymous for most of his time on the pitch. He had little influence on the front three and despite some nice touches, is not staking a claim for a starting place with the imminent return of Pedro Neto.  6/10

 

Raul Jimenez

A much-improved performance from Jimenez following a recent dip in form. Jimenez linked play well and lead the press from the front. He dispatched his penalty well in the usual style to set Wolves on their way. 8/10

 

Daniel Podence

A quieter performance from Podence following his two goals against Sheffield United last week. He looked good on the ball and looked to bring Jimenez and Trincao into play when possible. 7/10

 

Subs:

Adama Traore

A very good cameo from the bench from Traore as speculation continues over his future. Traore missed a glaring chance with just minutes to go but finally got this first Premier League goal of the season, slotting home with his weaker foot in stoppage time. 8/10

 

Fabio Silva

Yet another impressive cameo from Fabio Silva who was very effective at getting Wolves higher up the pitch in the closing stages. He produced an excellent piece of skill to create a chance for himself which was well saved. 8/10

 

Luke Cundle

Came on for the final minute of the game for his Premier League debut. N/A

 

Ciaran Barker is part of the Talking Wolves editorial team – you can follow him on Twitter here.

 

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Wolves 3-0 Sheffield United – Player Ratings

by with No Comment NewsPlayer Ratings

Wolves progressed into the fourth round of the FA Cup with ease following a 3-0 demolition of Championship side Sheffield United at Molineux. Bruno Lage fielded a strong side following Monday’s victory at Old Trafford, and his Wolves team have been rewarded with another home time, this time against a struggling Norwich side in round four. Following a nervy start to the game, Daniel Podence set Wolves on their way giving thanks to good work from Fabio Silva. A superb second goal finished by Nelson Semedo made the game comfortable before Podence rounded the scoring off with his second of the day.

 

John Ruddy

Wolves’ back up goalkeeper proved his worth with several good saves to ensure the game remained comfortable. His save from Billy Sharp’s close-range effort shortly after the second goal ensured Wolves could relax for the closing stages of the game. 8/10

 

Max Kilman

Yet another faultless display from Kilman whose consistency is quite something. He did all that was required of him defensively and looked to get involved in attacks where possible. That England call up can’t be far away. 8/10

 

Conor Coady

Coady, like Kilman, produced a faultless display at the heart of the defence. His ball distribution was excellent and played a big part in the build up to the Wolves goals. Following a shaky start, Coady may well be having the best season of his career. 8/10

 

Marcal

Played the first half on the left side of the back three but was withdrawn at half time as a precaution. Marcal gave the ball away in a dangerous area on more than one occasion but recovered well to ensure the clean sheet remained intact.  7/10

 

Nelson Semedo

Another excellent display from Nelson Semedo who has really started to prove his worth this season. His link up play down the right flank was superb and he was faultless defensively. His determination to get on the end of Ait-Nouri’s cross for the second gaol summed up his performance. 9/10

 

Leander Dendoncker

Played alongside Neves in the midfield in the first half, often breaking play up and allowing Neves the space to be creative on the ball. He then moved to the right-hand side of the back three for the second 45 minutes and looked assured, proving an effective aerial presence when defending. 7/10

 

Ruben Neves

Another superb display from Neves in the Wolves midfield who may just be in the form of his Wolves career now. His passing range was a joy to behold, and the Sheffield United midfield did not know what to do with him. 8/10

 

Rayan Ait-Nouri

Back following injury and back to the promising form his showed at the start of the season. Ait-Nouri was determined and direct, looking to take players on and get to the by-line. His cross to Semedo for the second goal was weighted perfectly. He has certainly staked a claim for a start against Southampton on Saturday. 8/10

 

Adama Traore

A surprise inclusion following mounting speculation of a move away from Molineux this month. Traore was not afraid to get on the ball but was largely ineffective with it. He seemed reluctant to take players on out wide, often coming infield to more crowded areas. He certainly gave the United defenders something to think about, but it just didn’t quite come off for him. 7/10

 

Fabio Silva

An excellent performance from Fabio Silva who felt the appreciation of the Molineux crowd for the first time when he was substituted in the second half. His link up play with Podence was extremely pleasing and ultimately created the first goal. With Raul not in the best form, Silva may soon be knocking on the door for a Premier League start. 8/10

 

Daniel Podence

Without doubt the best player on the pitch. Podence’s movement on and off the ball was mesmerising, leaving the Sheffield United defence dumbstruck. He will be delighted to get on the scoresheet again, having been prolific in the League cup earlier in the season too. 9/10

 

Subs:

Joao Moutinho

Played the second half and produced the calm and assured midfield display we have come to expect. It certainly wasn’t the most difficult 45 minutes of football he will have played, and he is likely to regain his place in the starting XI for the game against Southampton. 7/10

 

Raul Jimenez

Linked play well with the midfield and wing backs but couldn’t fashion a clear-cut chance to get on the scoresheet. He will be keen to rediscover his form following the impressive display from Silva. 7/10

 

Francisco Trincao

An impressive cameo from Trincao who went on several dazzling runs through the midfield and defence. As has often been the case this season, Trincao’s end product was lacking, often holding on to the ball too long or opting to shoot when the pass is the better option. 7/10

 

Bruno Jordao

Will be delighted to get back into first team action following two serious injuries. Bruno Lage is thought to be impressed with Jordao and this is unlikely to be the last time we see him this season. N/A

 

Luke Cundle

Similar to Jordao, Bruno Lage is thought to be a big fan of academy graduate Luke Cundle, who has been on the bench numerous times this season. He came on for the final five minutes in the front three and looked calm and confident on the ball. N/A

 

Ciaran Barker is part of the Talking Wolves editorial team – you can follow him on Twitter here.

Wolves stadium

Wolves 0-0 Burnley – Player Ratings

by with No Comment NewsPlayer Ratings

Wolves were held to their second successive 0-0 draw in the Premier League after it finished goalless against Burnley at Molineux on Wednesday night. It certainly was not one for the purists and Wolves failed to live up to the heights of their previous home game against West Ham. Despite this, Wolves had the opportunities to win the game, Adama Traore going closest with his effort crashing off the underside of the crossbar.

 

Jose Sa

A comfortable night for the Wolves goalkeeper with just the one major save to make from Dwight McNeil in the second half. His handling and command of the area was superb and gives the defence a huge confidence boost against sides like Burnley who have a dangerous physical presence in the box. 7/10

 

Max Kilman

Yet another excellent defensive display from Kilman who has hardly put a foot wrong all season. Kilman was excellent on the ball too, looking to bring the ball higher up the pitch allowing the midfield and wing backs to push on. Unfortunately  those around him were on a different wavelength at times. 8/10

 

Conor Coady

A faultless defensive display from Coady who organised and leaded the team as we have come to expect. He was unable to start any meaningful attacks from the back due to Burnley’s high press, so was restricted to sideways balls to his fellow defenders or wing backs in deeper positions. 7/10

 

Romain Saiss

Saiss, like the rest of the defence, had a comfortable evening with the visitors offering little threat going forwards. He too tried to play Ait-Nouri down the left flank as often as possible, but Wolves just couldn’t increase the tempo enough to put real pressure on Burnley. 7/10

 

Nelson Semedo

Possibly the pick of the players on the pitch in terms of his effort and endeavour in an attacking sense, but also his hard work tracking back and nullifying any threat Burnley had out wide. Semedo looked to link with Traore and Jimenez but nothing came to fruition. 7/10

 

Joao Moutinho

An increased responsibility on his shoulders with Neves missing out through suspension and Moutinho didn’t really have any impact on the game. He was calm and assured on the ball but never looked to find the pass to break the lines of defence. He was also too easy to get past from a defensive point of view in the midfield. 6/10

 

Leander Dendoncker

Replaced the suspended Neves and didn’t take his opportunity to stake a claim for a place in the starting XI. Dendoncker often slowed play down and had little impact in an offensive sense. Wolves missed Neves, there is no doubt about that. 5/10

 

Rayan Ait-Nouri

Overall, Ait-Nouri put in another good performance as he continues to develop. He was relatively sound defensively and comfortable on the ball. He saw a lot of the ball in the final third but often checked back, slowing the attack down. On the rare occasions he got to the by-line his cross was poor and Wolves could not create a meaningful chance from them. 6/10

 

Adama Traore

Just where to start with Adama Traore. On the one hand, if Traore wasn’t on the pitch Wolves would not have created a single chance all evening. On the other hand, Traore wasted numerous good positions including a break mid-way through the second half where he had acres of space and instead produced an awful, floated cross towards Jimenez which was easily intercepted. His effort that hit the crossbar was unlucky, but Jimenez was in a far better position to his left. It was yet another frustrating night for the Spanish winger. 6/10

 

Raul Jimenez

A quiet evening from Jimenez whose frustration was evident. There were signs of his partnership with Traore developing again, but Traore could not produce the final ball for him. He was often forced wide or deep to get the ball which left Wolves short of numbers in the box. 6/10

 

Hwang Hee-Chan

A typical Hwang performance, full of energy and enthusiasm showing just why he is adored by the Molineux crowd. He had a few half chances and looked to link with Traore and Jimenez where possible, but it was an off night in general for the front three. 6/10

 

Subs:

Francisco Trincao

Replaced Hwang for the final ten minutes and was unable to impact the game. He had one dazzling run through the midfield, but nothing came of the attack. It will be interesting to see whether he is restored to the starting XI for the visit of Liverpool on Saturday. 6/10

 

Ciaran Barker is part of the Talking Wolves editorial team – you can follow him on Twitter here.

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Norwich 0-0 wolves – Player Ratings

by with No Comment Player Ratings

Wolves held Norwich to a goalless draw at Carrow road on Saturday and were perhaps fortunate to leave with a point. After a promising first thirty minutes Wolves failed to create any meaningful chances and had goalkeeper Jose Sa to thanks for the clean sheet which ultimately earned the point. Despite the disappointing performance Wolves remain sixth and will look to continue their good form against Burnley at Molineux on Wednesday.

 

Jose Sa

It was yet another faultless display from the new Wolves number one who produced several good saves to earn Wolves a point. His save from Max Aarons late in the first half was particularly important, while his command of area and distribution was once again impressive. 8/10

 

Max Kilman

Wolves’ play of the season so far did not disappoint at Norwich, defending well both aerially and physically. He covered well for Semedo and looked to get on the ball as often as possible. 7/10

 

Conor Coady

An excellent defensive display from the Wolves captain who produced several important blocks and challenges as Norwich looked to find a way through. The lack of movement around him made starting attacks from the back difficult but Coady performed his primary duty to perfection. 8/10

 

Romain Saiss

Saiss, like the rest of the defence, put in an impressive defensive display, dealing with everything that came his way. With the absence of Wily Boly prolonged, Saiss must keep up his good form if Wolves are to pick up results in December. 7/10

 

Nelson Semedo

Semedo failed to live up to the heights of his performance against West Ham but in truths so did everyone who played ahead of him. The right wing back was solid enough defensively but lacked ambition and intensity going forward, opting for the safe pass at every opportunity. 6/10

 

Joao Moutinho

It was a poor performance from Moutinho who failed to have any real impact on the game both defensively and offensively. He struggled to link with the front three and the young Norwich midfield found it far to easy to bypass him. 5/10

 

Ruben Neves

After a promising start to the game, Neves also had little impact on the game after a superb performance against West Ham. He struggled to create and get any meaningful attacks going, with the those ahead of him static and isolated. 6/10

 

Rayan Ait-Nouri

Despite showing vast improvements in recent weeks, Ait-Nouri didn’t have his best display at Carrow Road. He was often caught out of position and lost possession far too easily. He had little effect on the game going forwards, like Semedo, opting for the safe pass too often. 5/10

 

Francisco Trincao

A poor display from Trincao who would only have come into the side at late notice following the news that Daniel Podence had tested positive for COVID-19. Trincao lost possession on far too many occasions and failed to link with his fellow forwards to create meaningful chances. 4/10

 

Raul Jimenez

It wasn’t for the want of trying from Jimenez, but he had an incredibly quiet afternoon, failing to register a shot on target. He was often seen coming deep to get the ball, which is also the fault of those around him, as he tried to get Wolves on the front foot to no avail. 6/10

 

Hwang Hee-Chan

Like Jimenez there was certainly no lack of effort from the latest fans favourite, but Hwang struggled to get into the game and couldn’t link with those around him as Wolves failed to have any real sustained spells of pressure in the game. 5/10

 

Subs:

Adama Traore

Just what is going on with Adama Traore? Came off the bench with half an hour to go and had little to no impact on the game. In his defence he was switched into three different positions during his time on the field. His ineffective cameo will only raise further questions over his future and why Bruno Lage continues to leave him on the bench. 5/10

 

Leander Dendoncker

A much-needed physical presence in the midfield for the closing stages of the game and is likely to start against Burnley on Wednesday evening following Ruben Neves picking up his fifth yellow card of the season. 6/10

 

Ki-Jana Hoever

Played the final minutes of the game allowed Traore to move further forward in case there was a chance for a late counter attack. N/A

Selhurst park

Crystal Palace 2-0 Wolves – Player Ratings

by with No Comment OpinionPlayer Ratings

Wolves’ five-game unbeaten run ended abruptly as they were convincingly beaten by Patrick Viera’s Crystal Palace on Saturday afternoon. It was a lacklustre performance in which Wolves never really got going, failing to live up to the heights of the performance against Everton on Monday night. Goals from Wilfred Zaha and Connor Gallagher sent Wolves home without a point, giving the home side the win that they deserved. Wolves are back at Molineux after the international break against in form West Ham United.

Raul Jimenez Xmas Cards – Available Now

raul card

 

Jose Sa

Made a mess of a deep cross into the box which ultimately led to the opening goal of the game, but Wolves should have defended the second phase of the attack far better. His distribution was not up to the usual standard, but he did make several saves which ultimately saved Wolves the embarrassment of a heavy defeat at Selhurst Park. 6/10

 

Max Kilman

Was solid defensively with much of what was thrown at him and looked to step out of defence and get Wolves further up the pitch as they failed to create. His passing was poor, and he was caught out of position several times. 6/10

 

Conor Coady

A poor display from the Wolves captain who once again showed his inability to defend against big and physical strikers, this time Christian Benteke. He was far too slow in pushing out the box for the opener, capping off an afternoon to forget before he departs for England duty. 4/10

 

Romain Saiss

Saiss like Coady, had a poor afternoon and was also partly at fault for the first Palace goal, playing Zaha onside. He was poor on the ball too, incapable of dealing with the high press that the home side forced on Wolves. 5/10

 

Nelson Semedo

Not Semedo’s finest afternoon in a Wolves shirt as the wing back struggled defensively for much of the game, Max Kilman often covering for him. He did however, look to get Wolves up the pitch, particularly in the first half, but had little support in doing so as Wolves failed to create a clear cut chance. 5/10

 

Joao Moutinho

Struggled to assert any kind of dominance in the midfield and was in truth, non-existent when Palace on the ball. For his many strengths, Moutinho is far too easy to get past in midfield and this is an issue Wolves must address. He did however go closest to getting a goal with his free kick being tipped round the post by Guaita. 5/10

 

Ruben Neves

Failed to build on his man of the match display against Everton last week with a poor showing in the defeat at Selhurst Park. He was poor on the ball with far too many passes going astray, while he failed to stop many Palace attacks as they drifted through the middle of the park with ease. 5/10

 

Rayan Ait-Nouri

Like Semedo on the opposite flank, Ait-Nouri tried to make things happen but had little support around him, forcing him to go backwards far too often. Wolves’ attacking chemistry just wasn’t quite there and that will be the biggest disappointment for Bruno Lage. 6/10

 

Francisco Trincao

A poor display from Trincao having put in arguably his best performance in gold and black on Monday night. Almost every pass went astray in the final third with the Portuguese winger failing to create a single chance. 4/10

 

Raul Jimenez

Jimenez cut a lonely and frustrated figure for much of the match, failing to link with Hwang and Trincao, and going a full game without mustering a shot for the first time in a Wolves shirt. 5/10

 

Hwang Hee-Chan

Failed to live up to the heights of his impressive start to his Wolves career, on a different wavelength to those around him. A day to forget for those in the front three for Wolves. 5/10

 

Subs:

Adama Traore

Replaced Nelson Semedo with 20 minutes to go and injected some much-needed energy going forwards. He was far more direct than any other player on the day but couldn’t create anything meaningful from the more restrictive wing back position. 6/10

 

Daniel Podence

Came into the front three and failed to improve the movement and creativity that had been lacking all game. Will certainly be in with a chance of starting against West Ham after his impressive start to the season. 5/10

 

Fabio Silva

Played the final few minutes without having any time to make a real impact on the game. N/A

 

Ciaran Barker is part of the Talking Wolves editorial team – you can follow him on Twitter here.

elland road

Leeds United 1-1 Wolves – Player Ratings

by with No Comment NewsPlayer Ratings

Wolves continued their impressive unbeaten run with a 1-1 draw against a struggling Leeds United side at Elland Road. Wolves left frustrated having conceded a 93rd minute penalty, just three minutes before full time. However, a poor second half display where Wolve struggled to assert any control and gain any momentum means Leeds’ equaliser was more than deserved. Bruno Lage’s men, therefore, missed out on the chance to move into the top four but are sat comfortably in mid table ahead of returning to Molineux against Everton on Monday.

 

Jose Sa

Yet another superb display from the new Wolves shot stopper who has settled into life in the Premier League with ease. Sa made some good saves in the second half to keep the home side at bay, including an excellent stop from a Gelhardt effort just ten minutes from time. His distribution was once again impressive as he looked to get Wolves up the pitch in the second half to combat the sustained Leeds pressure. 8/10

 

Max Kilman

Kilman put in another assured display away from home and is quickly becoming Wolves’ most consistent and reliable defender. He dealt with almost everything that came his way, particularly in the second half as Leeds asserted their dominance. 7/10

 

Conor Coady

Coady has quickly put his early season slump behind him and is now getting back to his best. He was assured defensively, and he tried to involve the wing backs with his distribution whenever possible. He was comfortable on the ball too, impressive considering the high and intense press that Bielsa’s Leeds side are known for. 7/10

 

Romain Saiss

Did relatively well for most of the game but will be disappointed with his involvement in the penalty that ultimately gave Leeds the equaliser. While he was by no means the only player at fault here, he must improve when players are running at him, especially in the penalty area. 6/10

 

Nelson Semedo

Like Saiss, Semedo played well until his challenge on Gelhadt gave Rodrigo the chance from the spot. He was excellent down the right-hand side in the first half and played a crucial part in Wolves’ goal, crossing for Jimenez whose deflected shot fell to the feet of Hwang. Semedo had little choice but to do something with Gelhardt running through on goal, but the defending was clumsy to say the least. 6/10

 

Joao Moutinho

Did the basics well as we have now come to expect but didn’t have any meaningful impact on the game. Was beaten far too easily in the midfield, a recurring problem. 6/10

 

Leander Dendoncker

A surprise inclusion with the omission of Ruben Neves, and like Moutinho had no real impact on the game in what was a weak Wolves midfield. He misplaced too many of his passes and didn’t break up the swarm of Leeds attacks in the second half. 5/10

 

Rayan Ait-Nouri

A refreshing performance at left wing-back from Ait-Nouri who many fans had called for in recent weeks. He looked to get forward with the ball and linked well with the front line. He was solid defensively and withdrawn late for Ki-Jana Hoever. 7/10

 

Adama Traore

Cut a frustrated figure at times with Leeds clearly working on marking him out of the game. Wolves didn’t have the ball for sustained periods which meant Traore didn’t have many opportunities to run into space on either flank. He linked well with Jimenez when he did have the ball. 6/10

 

Raul Jimenez

A strong performance from Wolves’ number nine despite not getting on the scoresheet. He played a pivotal role in instigating the press from the front which during long spells of Leeds possession, helped prevent the number of clear-cut chances the home side had. 7/10

 

Hwang Hee-Chan

Hwang, like Jimenez, contributed an awful lot defensively with his non-stop running and energy. He also gave Wolves the lead poking home from eight yards after a fortunate deflection in his path. 7/10

 

Subs:

Daniel Podence

Came on with 15 minutes to go and brough some much needed energy and fresh legs. His dazzling runs produced two chances for Wolves late on, one of which he will no doubt feel he should have done better with. 6/10

 

Ki-Jana Hoever

Came on at right wing-back for the final ten minutes and looked comfortable, dealing with anything that came his way. 6/10

 

Ruben Neves

Played the final few minutes but should have done better in the build-up to the Leeds penalty, failing to put pressure on Gelhardt before he got into the penalty area. He was passed far too easily as were Moutinho and Dendoncker throughout the game, which must be addressed in the January window. N/A

 

Ciaran Barker is part of the Talking Wolves editorial team – you can follow him on Twitter here.

villa park

Aston Villa 2-3 Wolves – Player Ratings

by with No Comment Player Ratings

Wolves made it nine points out of nine after a stunning and unexpected comeback at Villa Park on Saturday. After a poor first half where neither side really had the upper hand, Villa took control and found themselves 2 goals ahead thanks to Danny Ings and John McGinn. Wolves had produced next to no goal threat in the second half but gave themselves a chance following an excellent move finished off by Romain Saiss. A cleared corner then led to a goalmouth scramble which saw the ball deflect off Captain Conor Coady and into the net after Max Kilman had hit the crossbar. And Wolves produced then produced the most unlikely of wins after a deflected Ruben Neves strike found the bottom corner to send players, fans, and staff crazy. There were great scenes at the final whistle in what feels like a big moment in Wolves’ season ahead of a trip to Leeds next week.

Jose Sa

Produced an excellent save to deny Danny Ings in the chance of the first half but otherwise had little to do. Sa had no chance with either Villa goal. His distribution was good and his celebrations for both the second and third goals means that September’s player of the month is slowly becoming a cult hero. 7/10

Max Kilman

Once again produced a solid defensive display on the right-hand side of defence. Despite the return of Willy Boly from injury, Kilman has done nothing to suggest he should be replaced in the starting Xi having been one of Wolves’ most consistent players so far this season. 7/10

Conor Coady

What a moment for the Wolves captain! Just his fourth Wolves goal and in truth he didn’t know an awful lot about it. That didn’t stop the sheer emotion of the moment spilling over. The joy and passion on Coady’s face at the end was infectious after coming under pressure due to his poor early season form. 7/10

Romain Saiss

Struggled at times to deal with the Villa front line and was far too easily outdone by McGinn for the opening goal of the game. He did however contribute to the Wolves comeback, getting the goal that started the final ten minutes of madness. He was an effective aerial presence in the box at set pieces causing problems as Villa became nervy late on. 6/10

Nelson Semedo

Did relatively well in the first half getting Wolves up the pitch in rare moments of possession. He did seem to struggle more in the second half defensively and failed to link play with Hwang and Traore to produce any meaningful attacks down the right flank. 6/10

Joao Moutinho

Moutinho produced his usual calm and measured display on the ball without having any great impact on the game. He does seem to become less effective in a three-man midfield with Leander Dendoncker and Ruben Neves seeing more of the ball in what was a crowded central area. 6/10

Leander Dendoncker

Introduced into the XI to match up the three-man Villa midfield and did his job effectively. He broke up play on several occasions and looked to give Ruben Neves the chance to play forward whenever possible. 6/10

Ruben Neves

After being relatively quiet for most of the game Ruben Neves came alive in the final ten minutes to spearhead the Wolves comeback. His pass to Daniel Podence for the first goal was sublime and perfectly timed. Neves increased the intensity of the entire team in search of the equaliser and winner and will of course claim the winning goal despite the initial effort being tame. 8/10

Fernando Marcal

Yet another below-par performance from Marcal leaving many supporters wondering just what Rayan Ait-Nouri must do to earn a chance in the side. Marcal struggled defensively at times in the second half and contributed very little going forward, often slowing down the pace of any attack Wolves had. 5/10

Adama Traore

Played more centrally in the absence of Raul Jimenez and produced the best Wolves chance of the first half beating several Villa defenders but his shot was straight at Emi Martinez. After being marked out of the game for most of the second half Traore produced another moment of magic as a bursting run through the midfield won Wolves the free kick which ultimately won the game. 7/10

Hwang Hee-Chan

After the heights of his brace against Newcastle summer signing Hwang Hee-Chan was less than impressive at Villa Park. He failed to link attacks with Traore which will of course improve over time. He also gave the ball away for the second Villa goal despite being under very little pressure as the ball came towards him. 5/10

Subs:

Daniel Podence

Podence came off the bench and alongside Neves really did change the game for Wolves. His energy certainly rubbed off on the rest of the team and Villa really struggled to deal with his pace and technicality. He also produced the assist for the first Wolves goal squaring Neves’ excellent pass for Saiss to tap home.8/10

Fabio Silva

Came on alongside Podence and added energy to the Wolves front line without having any real impact on the ball. Although his playing time is limited Silva will have to do more when he is given an opportunity if he is to stake a claim for a place in the starting XI. 6/10

Raul Jimenez

Much to the surprise of everyone watching on Jimenez was not introduced until the final few minutes of the game. Lage said that he was left out of the side having played three games in a week for Mexico, only returning to Compton after traveling back from South America on Friday morning. You would expect to see Jimenez back in the side for the trip to Elland Road on Saturday. N/A

 

Ciaran Barker is part of the Talking Wolves editorial team – you can follow him on Twitter here.