I think that’s what you call a game of two halves.
After 45 minutes of football that was positively Jekyll, Wolves’ oft-seen Mr Hyde emerged for a second period that was not for the faint-hearted.
Everton, fresh off the heels of a ghoulish first half performance, pressed higher and harder and will probably head back to Merseyside feeling hard done by.
But, in pleasing contrast to events at Elland Road, we were able to hold on for a win that permits us to re-acquaint ourselves with the number seven after a miserable season spent apart.
Perhaps it’s fitting that that should happen on the day when Nuno was ousted at Spurs.
Fosun’s decision to part with our former manager was a divisive one, with many (this writer included) feeling it was a knee-jerk reaction to a season of unprecedented challenges.
And yet, with each passing game it’s looking an increasingly shrewd decision.
It will take time and money for Bruno to fashion Wolves into the team that he truly wants them to be, but he is getting more than just a tune out of his current crop of players.
The first half performance was a welcome reminder of the talent we already possess, with the visitors simply unable to cope with the pace and positivity of our football.
Max Kilman will deservedly draw plaudits for his goal but in truth, all of the defence have massively improved under the tuition of the new coaching setup, while Neves looks totally rejuvenated now he’s been given license to roam.
Up top, Hwang was excellent once again and I thought, missed sitter aside, this was Trincao’s best performance in old gold. Though neither outshone Raul, who was simply unplayable at times. Those early season fears about his condition have certainly been allayed.
While it was frustrating to see us lose control of the game in the second half, you have to credit the player’s game management. In an ideal world, there’d be no need for time-wasting or feigning injury but, whether we like it or not, it’s a dark art that is part and parcel of the modern game and we’ll be better off being reluctant practitioners rather than noble objectors.
It’s impossible to predict how far Wolves can go this season but, with 16 points taken from a possible 21 since the opening three defeats, it feels like the good times aren’t about to let up anytime soon.
Excellent write-up Ben, thanks very much for it.
You mention getting a tune out of the players and it struck me that there are similarities between football teams and bands. There’s a big difference between bands that can consistently put on a good performance – like say the top half of the prem – and bands that can consistently put on great performances without relying on their members all being in a good place withno problems, in good health and on form and playing in a good venue for an enthusiastic audience. It’s relatively easy to become a good band, great bands are rare and take time to gel in the right way. I’m happy that we have a good team who are unstoppable on their day and look forward to Bruno making us into a great team – if he is given the time and resources.
No matter who is playing who, both teams inevitably get chances during a game.
We had a gazillion during our first three games, and could take none of them.
We have since, in some “fans” eyes, played badly, but somehow along the way, amassed 16 points from a possible 21.
Funny ol’ game, innit?
Last night, if it hadn’t been for at least two wonder saves from Pickford, the scoreline would have been a realistic reflection of our first half dominance, and the game totally out of Everton’s reach.
We held it together, just, and deservedly got the three points, and in the process helped Everton’s fan’s desire to show the little, fat Spanish waiter the beckoning open door towards his upcoming unemployment.
Excellent result, two superbly taken goals, and an all round great team performance.
Shit eating grin now permanent.
P.s.
Anyone heard from Paulad67 recently???
I think a word of appreciation of Bruno`s impact is appropriate, in that he is proving himself to very adaptive, and not one dimensional.
His early emphasis on attacking attractive football proved unproductive in terms of results, not helped by the lack of support forthcoming from Mr. Shi in the transfer window. So, understanding the need for points on the board, he revamped our style and proceeded to tighten our defense, being prepared to grind out results. Not attractive and contrary to his expressed basic coaching beliefs, but very necessary– and very successful.
Now we are seeing a more balanced approach. Our defense, clearly very well coached and much improved from last season, remains solid, but now there is evidence of more attacking intent, and free flowing football. The changed role of Reuben Nevez, for example, is evident and very much welcomed. Our first half performance last night was a joy to watch
Many of us doubted the wisdom of Bruno`s appointment, not least me, but I have to say that it could well be that he will enable us to make big steps forward, which would not have been possible under Nuno. Hopefully Mr. Shi will give him necessary support in the upcoming transfer window, so that progress can be accelerated.
With you 100% on Bruno Mike.
Love Nuno as we all do the reputation he brought with him as having no plan B is proving sadly accurate. In contrast Bruno’s pragmatic approach after 3 pointless matches to become a more solid unit has probably exceeded all our expectations. Throw in key injuries and the transfer window shambles and it can’t be overstated how good a job he has done so far,
So please back him on the January window Jeff.
Yes, a solid defensive foundation is the key for collecting points, and I’m sure the attacking play only will improve now with Jimenez back at his best. If we can keep up the steam until january, I’d really fancy our chances to qualify for play in Europe next season – especially if the january transfer window becomes a success. Renato Sanches, one or two defenders, and a striker ;=). But it won’t be easy with Newcastle around ready to splash out cash. Luckily the position on the table doesn’t make them the most attractive side to join.
Good summary Ben.. Most definitely a game of 2 halves, sublime 1st half, nail biting 2nd.
Will always doth my cap to what Nuno did for my team, but maybe you’re right, Bruno is a positive choice. If the board back him with the type of players he needs to play the Bruno way, who knows where it will go.
2 big games coming up, but this morning just basking in the warm glow you get when me babbies win.
What anoutstanding first half could have been 3 or 4 nil up with a bit of luck the second half was once again squeaky but time but we held on for a deserved win. I thought
trincao had his best game but Jesus he has to score 5 yards out and puts it
Foot wide of the post has he been getting tips of Traore.
Absolutely delighted with the performance last night – everybody played well. Bruno is moulding a very effective unit against all the odds.
Yes. it was a game of two halves. but Benitez wasn’t going to let Everton roll over and die and with a bit of luck and no Pickford it would have been over by half time. And to those who correctly say we only played for 60 minutes I would say that’s 15 minutes more than almost every game in the last 2 seasons.
I thought Sa (again). Kilman, Ait-Nouri and Hwang were outstanding and Neves is near to being consistently back at his best.
But surely last night belongs to the incredible talent and man that is Raul Jiminez who for me confirmed that his rehabilitation is complete; without a doubt he is now up there with our all time greats.
Finally – good luck to Nuno wherever you go next. Tottenham didn’t deserve you.
Footnote to Jeff Shi.
We could be back on the verge of something very special again. For god’s sake don’t go and cock it up again. We have some notable absentees on the sidelines but there will be other injuries. Go out in January and make 3 quality signings to beef up our limited (in numbers) squad. In short give Bruno what he wants not what you and Mendez might want him to have,
Couldn’t resist a little dig at the end eh pj , even after a brilliant unbeaten run .
Some good points though so fair play
Utw
You may take it as a dig, I take it as a sensible observation. Maybe it’s you who can’t resist a dig at me.
Well, when you leave yourself wide open, eh, Paul??!!
Same applies to you Clive. It isn’t all be sweetness and roses. It doesn’t need to be personal and you talk enough crap for all of us anyway so pot., kettle, black.
If you don’t want alternative opinions to your own then those who beg to differ might as well stop contributing to YOUR site.
Ooooooh
Meow, meow
Somebody got out of bed the wrong side, didn’t they??!!
No Clive. I just don’t see why objective comments need to be personalised. I try to treat bloggers with respect regardless of their views unless retaliating to personal insults.
Let’s all keep it civilised shall we.
End of, it’s degenerating to playground level.
I have it on good authority that Jeff Shi doesn’t read this blog but he’s sent a message to all disgruntled bloggers to continue screaming into the abyss. ?
After that first half the 15 minute wait to start again was agonising.
Then it all went a bit the wrong way after i was expecting a wolf devouring a bag of toffees it almost ended up us being wrapped up in a bag of toffees.
Yes everton were poor first half and we took full advantage as we should and did so 10/10 for that …but.
As they pressed we started to panic and other teams will see that and press from the off .
The passing started to go astray and we really needed that third to settle things down again but it went the other way and the pressure mounted .
Trincoa missing that absolute sitter was a signal for them to throw the hot toffee pan at us which they duly did but fortunately ran out of time despite the astonishing extra five added minutes .
The front line are getting it together and traore needs to get pen to paper or he will be surplus to requirements in the jan window.
So a great first half due a little to a dire everton and a backs to the wall second which has left my fingers hurting this morning.
No one had a bad game but for me neves was magnificent and the front three despite trincoas sloppy miss were also superb oh and the back three were excellent oh and the keeper is a huge upgrade on patricio and fills me with confidence apart from when coady passes it to him ….you get it.
Roll on saturday at the palace then another bloody international break to balls it all up !
Sa is very good but a huge upgrade on Patricio? How come he gets nowhere near the Portugal team? Patricio is a better shot stopper but Sa commands the six yard box better and is superior with his feet and, in these times, probably a better fit with the way Wolves currently play
What’s a rhetorical question?
Was that the best 45 minutes of smooth, fast attacking football that I’ve seen at Molineux since the heady early Nuno days?
THAT is a rhetorical question.
Here’s another.
After going two goals ahead, will I end up with my fingernails bitten down to the wrists as we stop doing what we were brilliant at and engage ‘Panic mode’.
Overall though, it was a pleasure to be at Molineux to witness Wolves – and Ruben Neves in particular – make Everton and their ‘Fat Spanish Waiter’ as the South Bank sang, (I think it was waiter anyway. It certainly began with a ‘W’), look like a Sunday League side for sixty odd minutes.
We looked like a proper team. Everyone knew their job and performed it perfectly.
Special mention for Raul, who was back to his imperious best. Linking play, holding the ball up superbly and taking his goal with an innate skill and calmness that Adama could well note.
Also Max Kilman, who was a rock in our box and a bloody nuisance in theirs. He’s not the most demonstrative of chaps but it was great to see the joy on his face as he knocked in his first goal for Wolves.
And Semedo, once again showed how much he is improving under the tutelage of Bruno and his coaches.
Sa’s obligatory comedy ‘I’ll just show off my clever footwork and end up tripping over the ball’ routine brought the collective heart rates of the crowd up a few notches, as did his also obligatory wonder save.
They say you can begin to judge a team and its manager after ten games.
Another three points on the board and seventh place in the best League in the World.
GUILTY!
Of being rather good.
We were so good in the first half, I will happily forgive all of the sloppiness in the second.
In Raul and Hwang we have two players that operate like elite-level forwards in and out of possession. The way they collect the ball in those pockets of space between the opposition’s midfield and defence and then look to combine with quick interplay and off the ball running is something to behold. It also means when teams sit off and try to defend as Everton did last night, we possess the tools to get through them. It’s a crying shame Hwang’s goal was ruled out because it was the perfect goal to reward their efforts. Without the ball, they were just as good though and forced that mistake from Godfrey to allow Raul to finish like a world-class centre forward.
This was probably one of Raul’s best performances. Just the one goal and he perhaps should have done better with the header he planted against the post, but he gave the Everton defenders a torrid time all evening with his intelligence, skill and physicality. The number of times he just held the ball and effortlessly spun away from two or three players was incredible.
A word too for Trincao who blotted an otherwise impressive performance by dragging that shot wide in the second half that would have sealed the deal. I understand why he frustrates but I like the way he moves with the ball and the positions he takes up that create angles for smart passes. He always does two or three bits in the game that mark him out as an exceptional talent, but as with Traore, we need that end product. There’s no doubt though that when he’s in the team Wolves look a more cohesive side.
Neves and Moutinho were both outstanding and got through some serious work, dictating the game in the first 45 and then grafting to keep us ahead in the second. Neves in particular always seemed to be there with a block or interception when we needed it.
The wingbacks were good too and as one of Nelson’s critics, I applaud him for his efforts in both directions last night.
Another I’ve never been as convinced about is Kilman but he’s really winning me over now. Of course I can see what he gives us in possession and the understated way he goes about his business. My criticism has always been about his lack of aggression and that ability to dominate in both boxes. Well, he shut my mouth on that point and has cemented his place in the side.
In a minor criticism of Bruno, I’m not sure what the logic was in sending on Podence on when we’re defending in our own half. To me he’s a player that does all his best work when the team are up the pitch (as we were chasing the game at Villa) and not on the counter. If you’re just going to defend and launch balls over the top for someone to chase, it’s surely logical to turn to the fastest player in world football? Yeah, Adama isn’t an enthusiastic runner out of possession, but the coach has to get in his ear and extract that effort from him.
Up to 7th and watching that performance last night, Palace will know they’re in for a game Saturday.
I too was baffled with respect to the non-appearance of Adama Thomas. In the second half we were just hanging on grimly throughout and it was no surprise when Everton eventually pulled one back. I was glad to see Podence come on but couldn’t understand at all why Traore wasn’t brought on as well. He represents the best out ball in the game. If he’d been brought on we could have relieved the continual pressure on us just by playing the ball up to and letting him run like he loves too. It would also have checked Everton’s relentless pressure because they would have to have been wary of his availability.
I’m a big fan of Bruno and the change in our style but I have to say that I thought he mismanaged the second half significantly by not bringing Traore on. Maybe there was something I didn’t know. Maybe he’d picked up a knock in training or was feeling under the weather?
Anybody know if there might be any truth in that?
Ah, yes! At long last we have returned to LIQUID football! What a joy to see the wonderful play in the first half. The Wolves players are very effective with the high press, and certainly hunted in packs.
The only concern is that it is difficult to maintain a high press for 90 minutes, and last night some players finished on an empty tank!
I must confess my bum cheeks were squeezing in for a lot of the second half, but in the end we got a very deserved win!
It has been quite a while that Wolves fans are feeling this confident but bring on the next game, there is no fear!
A nervy end, but that doesn’t take away from the big moment – i was so happy for Max getting that goal. You could see the absolute happiness and deserved pride on his face. He is a gem of a find and I hope that cements his place. For me, he was the outstanding player of the match.
As others have said though, Raul is back on top form. When i saw him one on one with Pickford, i just knew he wasn’t going to miss. What a delightful finish – i could watch that goal over and over again. Great job team – onwards and upwards.
On a side note – i was sad for Nuno yesterday. Really, Tottenham’s point situation isn’t that bad. The sacking does look down to the supporters dislike for the team’s style of play. Yes Nuno’s defensive minded, but i wonder how large a part the team dynamics play in their current lackluster performance – a star player who doesnt want to be there? Would have been nice to have a Nuno rematch – and win 🙂
Wolves are bad for your heart, 2 up , spent 2half hiding behind my sofa, if fosun back bruno we could be back in europa leauge, respect to nuno dead man walking at spurs, won without headless chicken adama, love u bloggers, wolves aie we.
Back to those weird first three games in the first half. Fluid movement and crisp passing had Everton chasing shadows. The two well taken goals could easily have been four or five but for some good goalkeeping and poxy VAR.
The half time break would not have been a pretty sight in the Everton dressing room, but they came out chasing and harrying much further up the pitch and the Iwobi strike was on the cards well before it arrived. I was never too concerned that we would throw our lead away though. Their finishing was generally awful and Sa always seems to have a world class save ready to save the day.
Raul Jiminez was a joy. A stunning performance. The kind of performance that has you rubbing your eyes in disbelief that he still wears the Old Gold. Not only still here, he seems to love it here. His rapport with the fans is fantastic and is a two way thing. We know how good he is and he knows we know and loves us for it. Long may he grace the Molineux turf.
It was nice to see a more positive performance, reminiscent of those first few games of the season, pressing high and enjoying far more of the ball. We were superb in that first half, and finally we were rewarded in the scoreline.
Ait-Nouri was superb all night, a constant outlet on the left flank. I thought he was one of our standout players toward the end of last season, and hopefully he gets a run in the side now. One of my biggest concerns in the last month or so had been the lack of attacking from our wing-backs – we were very much a back 5 than a 3, but that seems to have been remedied. RAN is definitely an upgrade on Marcal and, whilst you feel Semedo will always have that naivety in his game defensively, he’s starting to offer a far lot more going forward.
I’m so pleased for Raul. He is bang on it now, showing that first touch and link-up play that made him one of the best forwards in the league pre-injury. He is so good at dropping deep and finding those pockets of spaces infront of the defence. You can see the confidence has returned to his game, evident in that cool finish. It reminded me of that goal against West Ham in 2018/19 when he was similarly in a rich vein.
Trincao did well. He has that bit of flair which he’s shown in fits and bobs, and can’t underestimate the role he played in our second goal by pressing Godfrey so high up. Suspect he’ll continue to drift in and out of games, but I like what I’ve seen from him so far. Neves was sublime. Pulled the strings, quality on the ball, and his work rate is just absolutely phenomenal – he and Joao ran the show. Kilman was solid again (what a find he has been), definitely our most consistent player so far.
It got a bit desperate and edgy second half, but similar to the Newcastle game, I don’t think we were overly troubled at 2-1, that late header aside. Everton were abject (Doucoure’s injury has weakened their midfield, which was powder puff in his absence) and we’ll seldom play more obliging opponents, but it was heartwarming to see us continue to play on the front foot, even after the two goals. It’s plain to see the football Bruno wants us to play.
We are a pleasure to watch when we take the game to the opposition, and long may it continue.
My thoughts are as follows……
We showed real, real class yesterday. I am so thankful we did exactly what I thought we wouldn’t do and that is turn over a arrogant but poor Everton side, with a bunch of no bodies that there mystic manager cannot save.
I have been know to be a worrier when watching my team, Wolves. I am always the opposite of optimistic, that performance changed everything as I can now see the potential. Not the result, that was a bonus, but we have an actual group of players that can play and I can only see Bruno strengthening on that. A couple of solid signings in January, That will want to come due to table position – the likes of Sanchez etc. Will just add to this magical moment.
Maybe, its just high end emotion – I haven’t heard a single murmur from any of the Everton fans I work with, including my brother. It’s a good day to be a wolves fan.
All the football groups I am in that I play with are very very silent today. Glorious.
Thank you to the boys in Black and Gold!
WFIL – great to see your view has changed so much since your comments after the Villa win.
Wolves, the West Midlands biggest roller coaster !
UTW
So 10 games gone and always a good time for a little look at the table and assess the season so far .
All the early season “weem gunna be in a relegation dogfight” merchants are quiet and all the normal, measured rationale peeps are quite happy.(me included)
The next 4 games are interesting but I believe we can pick up at least 6 points from them and then give our tough December a real go.
Had a great day today starting with a 4 am start watching us stuff the blue side of Liverpool, breakfast at a beachside cafe and then backing the winner of the Melbourne cup at the races , does it get any better?
No Everton fans on the blog this year though!
Come on you wolves
Very elegant stuff, Marney.
Well done to Bruno and the team. Excellent performances from pretty much everyone and Semedo, who I have criticised in the past, had probably his best game for us. Still much to improve on as we all know but the current 7th place exceeds my pre season expectation of a mid table finish and we should use this encouraging start as a foundation to build on in the January window.
How good it is to see Raul back to his imperious form again. A truly world class striker. He scores: he creates; he works his socks off for the team.
But better yet, has to be the fact that for the first time since the departure of Jota, Raul has a strike partner of real quality along side him. No longer is he expected to shoulder the goal scoring burden alone. Hwang is not only a potent striker in his own right, ever dangerous in the box, but strong and very skillful his movement creates so many openings for others.
Already the developing relationship between the two, is very apparent, there being substantial evidence of how well they gel together, and in the coming weeks this can only get better. In my opinion this combination will be pivotal to the development of our team. The future looks very bright.
In spite of the second half performance Trincou could have settled the game for Wolves had he taken that glorious school boy chance.
We’re still a team of two halves. Difference is we’re playing the second half first if you get my drift.
That second (first) half was sublime. Our midfield we’re pulling Everton apart ably supported by our forwards and defenders.
There were so many outstanding performances it’s hard to single individuals out for praise but the core of Sa, Raul, Neves Moutinho Coady, Kilman and Semedo were outstanding. It feels churlish not to mention the others so good was that half.
Then after the break a poor opposition upped their game – Let’s face it they couldn’t have played much worse! From then on we were under it and were very nearly the authors of our own downfall.
As much as I applaud the team and Bruno for the manner in which we are trying to play, if we continue with the naive errors that are all too common, December will be a long hard month.
But for now I’m basking in a glorious win.
Greetings Super Wolves,
That first half, that Raul Jiminez, what a performance and joy to celebrate. Getting all Kool & the Gang here.
Really that battle scar extending 6 inch down his head (puts Harry Potter’s little scratch to shame) is the mark of a gladiator, and a symbol for a resurgent team. Lets face it we spent most of last season praying for his recovery, his family and that he could at least lead a normal life. Would he ever play football again? Well he’s bang at it with spades. Jah be praised, & Wolves welfare and medical deserve credit for managing his return to top flight action.
Sure the Fat Rat had to bin his obliging 1st half strategy which demonstrated that even 20 toffees weren’tgoing to stop our front line, and turned what looked like a rout into a squeaky 2nd 45. Nevermind. We didn’t ‘do a Villa’ and chuck it away. Thanks Jose Sa and Coady for keeping that intact 2nd half.
Starboy didn’t get on, even when it looked a tailor made fit for a defensive / counter attacking 2nd half. Just sign the soddin contract and get a piece of the action. Having been on the Traore side I’m beggining to wonder if some of the detractors and Sellims don’t have a point. Doesn’t he want to play for Us? or just holding on for better terms. Any light on this welcome.
Looking forward to the Palace.
1lv & COYW.
Surely time for us to sell him and move on. His only real talent is his ability to run faster than anyone else !! Let some other poor sod have the dubious honor — and outright frustration — of trying to coach him how to make a half decent pass. For us to consider making him our highest paid player is just plain ludicrous.
We can surely use the cash from the sale to buy a much needed quality addition in one of several other positions which require strengthening.
The other issue is that Traore`s value must be falling fast, give his continuing poor performances, so if we don`t cash in during January, we`re likely to get a lot less come the summer. Selling him ASAP is a no brainer
Let’s face the obvious, folks who are in the sell Traore brigade. Who is actually going to buy him for the sort of money we’d expect? No one, I’d say. Given that situation and the likelihood that Neto is seemingly a long way from returning I’d certainly hang on because we are only able injury from being very light up front. Remember last season. And , Mike he has a lot more to offer than his speed. Surely you can see that he is extremely skillful. His one big failure is lack of a quality end product but many others fall into that category.
Much of what you say I agree with Sea Pigeon. But unfortunately, the reality is that he is seriously flawed, and no amount of coaching is likely to change this at this stage of his career.
Yes its true that the amount we may get from a sale will be less than we might have obtained earlier, but his value is going down not up. The nearer we get to the end of his contract the worse becomes our position. Hence I believe the best option is to try to sell now and get what we can
Saying his only skill is to run faster than everybody is total nonsense. He’s the best dribbler in the league for one, bore out by his stats. The Traore problem is a coaching one, his ability is not in question. The question is how does Bruno utilise his skills to the best advantage of the team and their style of play. Nuno got the best out of Traore cos he’s a brilliant man to man coach, he succeeded where several high profile coaches failed. Bruno will need to do the same.
Sorry Balsall Heathen but I just don`t see it. I agree he can dribble very well but what`s the point if at then end of each run he can`t deliver a half decent pass to a colleague? For any coach he must be the most aggravating footballer on the planet. Loads of latent talent and potential, but which is hardly ever realized
I used to think just like you, and believe that one day it would all come good. But I`ve given up on that. I honestly think that a move would best for both Traore and for our club
Totally agree he’s frustrating BUT he’s the highest rated player in the squad, that’s a statistical mathematical fact. His pass accuracy is 76% which is higher than than Raul’s. (Surprisingly Trincao’s is 88%! anybody clock that?)
With all due respect Mike, the Premier League operates under a microscope of forensic experts watching every single move of every single player and they come up with straight up numbers to measure these things. This is why he wants more money, when we bought him he was a Championship player so he’s probably on a bit of shit deal compared to other players in the team. That might explain why he wants improved terms.
Thanks for the reasonings. While its not a cock up of Harry Kane proportions, Mr T not signing on is a thorn in the side. Also invites speculation from other clubs on his future and puts a cloud over training / matchday selection.
Perhaps he misses Nuno’s style, but he has teamates & captain he knows well by now. I don’t have any issues with his talent & hope it was a niggle that kept him benched, but the longer this ‘no contract’ malarky goes on, the less likely he is to play, and the better we play without him the less likely he is to start, and the less he’ll be worth and the less we’ll be bothered. Keeping him cold for the odd 10 mins or incase of injuries is ok for now, a bit of a luxury but a cool option if we do hit Europe again. Bruno may have a rotation going on. See how it works out. He may start next game and have a blinder.
Respects & COYW.
Neves was majestic, back to his sparkling best, Raul magnificent, RAN unplayable. A brilliant first half performance. They were never going to be as bad again in the second half, they had to go for it.
We had a slight wobble but it’s almost impossible to control a game at this level for 90 minutes, without the opposition having a spell of pressure. That header goes in from Everton and it’s a different story of course, we’ve thrown away a two goal lead. Perhaps it was a bit closer in the end than it should have been but it was great to see us play so well for the majority of the game.
Another big win and an impressive response to an underwhelming display at Leeds. It was said these games were important to get points on the board before a tricky run-up to Christmas and we’ve done just that.
Southgate in the stands
Who’s this kilman guy?
Why haven’t I been told about kilman ?
He can play for England?
Why the fook are we still messing around with mings ?
Utw
Great result.. Sa a brilliant save at the end…now a league position to be proud of ..we have CP nxt West Ham and then Norwich
– We could take all of them..
Neves the best subject Currently which means to me that we have a manager who can identify problems create confidence and train to do better..
Traore to start finishing ?
We have a real turnaround and now momentum into the nxt matches..
Just fantastic..COYW
It was a joy to watch us put a poor team to the sword and pretty much put the game to bed in the first half. We weren’t a team of two halves but Everton were, they changed shape and adopted a higher press in the second half and made a fist of it cos they have a manager who knows his stuff. We coped adequately with that and still created enough chances to put the game out of reach. The most encouraging thing about this is we are improving game on game and with a new manager and a new style this is very positive. The real test starts now with games against the top four coming up, at worst we will be sitting mid table at the end of that run so no panic needed. I think Hwang and Raul are becoming a formidable partnership and will be a potent force. Recruitment naysayers where are the plaudits when warranted. Trincao starting to shine too. RAN gives us so much more going forward.
Quote from the Guardian live stream ‘Wolves have become quite the entertainers’.
Raul’s first home goal of the season.
Kilman’s first Wolves goal. Onwards and upwards.
UTW
Back to winning ways for Wolves, and also for me with BetVictor. Whilst I am happy to take money off the bookies, I don’t even mind losing money as long as Wolves win. I didn’t back a straight win this time as the odds were miserable so I went for a win with BTTS at 17/4 and 19/5.
What a night What is also gratifying is that the Bruno sceptics among fans are now beginning to see the light. Nothing wrong in being outraged with the ousting of the much-loved Nuno and the recruitment of the untried Bruno. It shook us all up. But it’s looking like a masterstroke by Jeff now. We are now playing as well as we ever did under Nuno and with renewed self-belief. Regarding recruitment, Bruno has hardly even started yet…I can’t wait.
I struggle to add anything new to the many comments above. One thing that really resonated with me though is that bullet header against the post by Raul in the second half. That told me that he has fully recovered, mentally, as well as physically! In fact he even seems to have improved with the long layoff. Looking at Man U’s two veteran world class strikers, Raul has many years advantage over them. I’m also a big fan of Traore and I recognise that he can be a match winner even without an assist or a goal, by engaging with multiple opposition defenders and creating space for us. Last night Bruno may have given Traore a message by not playing him, such as, nobody is bigger than the team. I’ve long been a fan of Kilman. We paid peanuts for him, and he’s looking a much bigger bargain than Doc. He’s been a goal threat before and hit the jackpot in front of Gareth Southgate last night. The thought of Kilman and Coady at the heart of the England defence is not fanciful. Once upon a time England had the likes of Wolves heroes , Flowers, Wright and Slater together in midfield.
So what was my bollocks of ‘sense of dread’ all about? And a 1-2 prediction??
Can only say that I expected the Everton of the second half to show up for 90 minutes ,,instead it was liking playing a pub team…including the lovely back pass to Raul.
Ok so I eat humble pie (and happily may I say )…..but … other that Norwich who else is going to roll over for us like that? It sure won’t be Palace or West Ham
Hope the Bruno effect continues to build the confidence levels and the passing patterns continue to flourish…but still ways to go fellow bloggers
Geordies and Spurs will be driving prices up in January so we will need to be slick if we want to get a key signing or two then…and some of our better men will be on their radar….just saying
OODCL
Sorry to see sad end for Nuno….so OODCL for him too
Yes, it was sad to see the demise of Nuno at Spuds – but:-
He was NEVER going to be a fit for them.
Plus, I heard today that his payoff from Levy is rumoured to be around £14million.
Not bad for a couple of months work.
That, together with what Jeff must have given him, will help soften the blow.
– So where does he goes next? Everton? Arsenal?
I forgot Newcastle. They are probably the team that needs him most. Then he would try to buy Coady and Traore AGAIN in january. Newcastle will probably sign him on a seasonal contract in order to get them out of relegation and offer him the possibility to extend his stay if he does very well.
Eddie Howe is going to Newcastle? Sounds ok, some money and he is a good manager. Bet he’s loving the thought of that after the dissappointment at Bounemouth. I’m pleased for him.
Nuno take a holiday on the pay off from Spuds, forget about Traore and Coady, come Jan there’ll be jobs out there. 1 lv
Not sure if you’ve been doing a ‘blind Pugh’ M but of course he was never a fit for Tottenham
His sideways play, non tutoring training and confused tactics and substitution’s were only going to fox levy for a few matches ..unless the players responded on their own ..They didn’t…that includes Harry Cane who’s value has now dropped £50M
..don’t forget his master agent in the background who initiated the deal ..guess who….
he could sell sand to the Arabs
Planting Nuno at Spurs must of been one of his greatest achievements ..
I know off subject shall we sell adama
Read above Binda!
Yes. Unless we divide not to.
*Decide
The 10 game marker is reached and an impressive 16 points achieved. Well happy with that. Replicate that over the remaining 28 games and we are looking at 60/61 points which will almost certainly mean another acquaintance with a few European cities next season. Very impressed with Trincao last night. His best game for us to date. Was also impressed with RAN who looks useful going forward. And here we are in 7th place after a mighty fine run of 5 wins and a draw out of the last 7. I do find VAR puzzling at times. Last night no hesitation in stepping in to rule out a Hwang goal and change a penalty to a free kick. So where was it for the Deli Ali ‘penalty’, the Pogba red card offence, the clear penalty on Trincao ? I also recall how there was no hesitation in giving Brentford a penalty for a Marcal infringement yet on Sunday afternoon a Villa defender nearly pulls the shirt off a Wham attacker but nothing given. All I ask is consistency. I am still waiting for it to be applied. But another 3 points in the bag. 7 more wins and wim safe !!
Kenny Hibbett is now working on it at the refs monitoring station, having been let back in on surrendering his ak47 following a 7 game ‘holiday’. 1 lv
I know it changes nothing but with a bit more luck in those first 3 games we’d be sitting even more prettier…
Still as you say mate …. a decent hail from the first ten games… very pleased with that…
I do believe right now that we’re and established PL side.
Lots of positives and spot on comments from the bloggers and I loved the first half performance just like the rest of the world must have. However, Everton fans have a Toffees TV webcast which made interesting viewing last night. They slaughtered their team, the manager, the director of football and the owners and then claimed they wished they had a proper captain like Coady and a team which worked so hard as a unit ( That’s us!), they wondered why our recruitment was so good getting Neves for £15m and why on earth was Traore not in the team etc etc.
Everton were poor but seriously understrength so
it was also pointed out that Mina, Doucoure and Calvert-Lewin were missing and so how would we cope without Coady, Neves and Jimenez at the same time? Now that’s a very good question…… isn’t it Jeff?
Just like the last round toffeee in the bottom of the Quality Street tin thats bound to take out a loose filling, or in the case of Leon Osman at half time, get stuck in his throat and half choke him to death before Chris Sutton upended him and gave him a good hard slap, Toffee TV should be avioded. Must be bleak on the blue side of scouse, and the site of Penguin Benitez with egg on his face won’t inspire confidence.
Mind that 4-0 to Burnley still sends shivers down my spine. A long time ago now and where the F*** is Burnley anyway?
I looked around the stadium last night and realised the reason, at least in part. for our regression during 19/20 & 20/21. WE had been absent for months on end and we’re back, hopefully for good. Molineux in full voice is a very special place – a fact which is acknowledged by many of our players and some of the wiser pundits knocking about.
It’s something which understandably largely disappeared during the desert years of the 80’s, 90’s and early 21st century.
And it really took Nuno’s revolution to revive our famous home to the decibel levels and passion of better days and for that Nuno Espirito Santo we should thank you. It’s probably the best of the many good things you did for WWFC.
One man’s game management (in the second half) in another’s failure to make the attacking pass and ending up losing possession. We see it so often, like at Leeds. It’s not rocket science. Isn’t attack the best form of defence ?
Yes, something Mick McCarthy NEVER learnt.
Good summary Ben
Played very well first half, slick passing between the lines to create chances and continued to press for 45 minutes or maybe until we were two up ??
Like everyone else I dont know why we didn’t win comfortably. Second half we sat back and became nervous and Everton nearly salvaged something. Did we let them take the initiative second half or could we not stop them.
I think that to get consistently better we need to learn how to play when we are ahead – maybe that’s why we were so poor last week and second half last night. Really top teams do not sit back when they are ahead but play even harder to get more goals – let’s hope we can learn.
But let’s not turn up our noses at those lovely three points and seventh place !!
Well done lads
Good talking points Gerry. Very happy with the win against an Everton side who were above us in the league prior to the game, have a good squad of talented players and a very experienced manager. It was maybe too much to expect a comfortable second half, we played Everton at a low point in their form and they will be top half of the table at season’s end. Liverpool conceded a 2 nil score line at the weekend and other than the newly promoted teams, the league is full of technical and talented players at established clubs all with the same motivation. We doing pretty well atm, Palace and Zaha will present another fascinating challenge this weekend, I am starting to approach games now with more optimism, the defence is settled and forward line blossoming. So lucky to be involved in the most competitive and compelling league and sport in the world.
Well said Woodend wolf.
It proves we need to be psychologically aware as well as everything else !!
Still in a mellow frame of mind after Monday’s cracker of a match, the last half hour apart. Life is good.
Looking forward to getting back to Molineux next week, for this https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/dougie-singh. Many thanks to the kind bloggers who have already given.
Speaking of friends, it was great to catch up with a few – you know who you are -pre and post match.
If anyone would like to see what Max Kilman’s goal looked like from my vantage point in the Steve Bull….
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yQ4wkNP2s7I
As you will see, I quite enjoyed it.
Good channel Doog. ‘Obnoxious drunk at Glasto’ was a personal highlight. Looked familiar! I managed a bit of tubing a few years back.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c_vmU4UQ_4s
1 lv.
Cheers Rasta!
Yes, the ‘Obnoxious drunk at Glasto’ vid is one of my favourites, if only because it wasn’t me that time!
I’m interested to know about Channel Nun. Looks and sounds cool!
Big, big thanks to Ian of The Newark Wing.
You know what for.
Much love from Texas
Not yet read the above after returning from Wolvy so forgive me if what I say seems repetitive.
It was a wonderful performance first half and the guys did well to hang on late in the second half.
I love Moutinho but feel his legs went early in the second half, leaving the rejuvenated Neves to do two men’s jobs. I could not understand why Dendonker was not coming on and, despite Bruno’s explanation, still don’t. Also we, I felt strongly, needed Traore on to keep the Everton defence from venturing forward. He will always distract two or three defenders even when apparently not at his best in my view; maybe not deserving of a start currently but what a terrifying prospect to bring on.
I hate carping when we are getting such good results but we had the means to make this a much clearer and comfortable win; my heart and nails could do with less stress…
Great game though!!
Sorry for Nuno as that Spurs team requires a good clear out and some players who should do better are a disgrace. His last season with us was poor but without him, I felt, we would have done far worse with all the key injuries and lack of back up. Having said that, I feel it was time for both parties to move on and, hopefully, freshen up and progress.
Some more difficult games coming up and the need to replace tired and off colour team members at more relevant periods may prove more necessary in my view… COYW!!!
Ha ha, you managed to repeat what all the fans, bar Clive obvs, said above. The Traore Fraore, poor Nuno, great save, Jimi, Jimi, the team, Coady etc.
And brilliant 1st half! You can’t repeat that enough, Think I’ll just put that on repeat for the rest of the season. 1 lv.