The last-placed Premier League team, Wolves, surprised third-placed Aston Villa with a 2-0 victory at Molineux, featuring goals from Joao Gomes and Rodrigo Gomes.
In a wet West Midlands derby, Wolves displayed greater determination, while Villa struggled to find their rhythm. Joao Gomes opened the scoring with a fantastic finish, and Rodrigo Gomes confirmed the win with a late counter-attack deep into stoppage time.
This victory for Rob Edwards’ team allows them to surpass Derby’s all-time low points total in the Premier League, alleviating fears of repeating that disgrace and bringing much-needed joy to the home fans at the expense of their rivals.
Match Overview
Wolves had been on the defensive for much of the first half, repelling Villa’s attempts, including a shot from Ollie Watkins and a missed header from Pau Torres. Wolves’ best chance came from Toti Gomes, whose shot went awry. Unai Emery looked to shift momentum with some substitutions, but it was Wolves who scored first through a smooth attack culminating in a goal from Joao Gomes.
Player Performances
Wolves Player Ratings: Sa (6), Tchatchoua (7), Mosquera (7), S Bueno (7), Toti (7), H Bueno (7), Andre (8), J Gomes (9), Bellegarde (7), Mane (7), Armstrong (8). Subs: Arokodare (6), A Gomes (n/a), R Gomes (n/a).
Aston Villa Ratings: Martinez (5), Cash (5), Konsa (6), Torres (6), Digne (5), Onana (6), Luiz (6), Sancho (6), Buendia (5), Rogers (6), Watkins (5). Subs: Bailey (5), Barkley (6), Maatsen (6), Abraham (6), Alysson (n/a).
Player of the Match: Joao Gomes.
Late Drama
Chants of ‘1-0 to the Championship’ echoed around Molineux. Despite Villa’s attempts to rally, including bringing on Tammy Abraham, Wolves defended robustly and added a second goal at the last minute as substitute Rodrigo Gomes broke away to score.
Edwards and Emery on the Game
Wolves manager Rob Edwards expressed that this moment would remain with him forever amid a trying season, while Villa coach Unai Emery acknowledged his team’s recent struggles and the shift in expectations from challenging for the title to managing their position in the top five.
Analysis of Future Prospects
Sky Sports analysts highlighted Villa’s waning form, questioning their fortitude as they approach pivotal matches in the Europa League. The players appeared disconnected, lacking the urgency needed to mount a comeback, raising concerns about Villa’s ability to regain momentum.
