5 things we learned in Wolves win vs Watford

Wolverhampton Wanderers have finally recorded a Premier League victory after they defeated Watford away 2-0 yesterday.

Here is a look at five things we learned from the game…

Hwang Hee-chan gives Wolves more goal threat

What a debut for the South Korea international. After coming onto the pitch for Francisco Trincao, it took Hwang Hee-chan just 20 minutes to get off the mark for Wolves.

The moment came from a goalmouth scramble after good work from Daniel Podence and Marcal. The ex-RB Leipzig player showed his ability to be in the right place at the right time.

It is a quality Wolves have sorely missed in recent weeks, with their goal-drought ended after failing to score in their opening three league games.

Raul Jimenez showed signs of sharpness

He may not have got on the score sheet but there were some really encouraging signs for striker Raul Jimenez. Understandably, he has not looked as threatening as he did prior to his serious head injury.

However, after a frustrating first half Jimenez grew into the game. A beautiful flick-on set up a golden opportunity for Nelson Semedo.

He also won the corner for the team’s opening goal. It feels only a matter of time before he gets on the scoresheet again.

Marcal establishing himself as first choice

It may have surprised Wolves fans to see Marcal excelling this season. Last season, the Brazilian wing-back continually struggled with injuries and form.

This time around he seems like a new signing. Prior to the Watford game he was second the only Liverpool’s Trent Alexander-Arnold for crosses in the league this season.

He continued his top start by featuring in both of Wolves’ goals yesterday. His cross forced the Watford own goal. Afterwards, his shot was saved leading to Hwang’s opening goal.

Podence has earned more minutes

Daniel Podence was instrumental in Wolves’ win. His clever movement in the box created the space for the old gold and black to score their second goal.

After impressing in the EFL cup third round win over Nottingham Forest, Podence has been on the pitch for five of Wolves’ six goals in all competitions this season.

Bruno Lage should consider starting him for the next game against Brentford. The only issue Podence has is that both Trincao and Adama Traore seem to have won Lage’s trust so far.

Could we see all three start?

Expect Wolves to continue with three at the back

One of the big tactical questions ahead of the game was whether Wolves would play with three or four at the back against Watford.

Lage opted to continue with three centre backs, and it worked – his team got the win and the clean sheet.

It is a system that Wolves are familiar with after largely playing it under former boss Nuno Espirito Santo for four seasons. Also, the failure to sign a centre-back on transfer deadline day might have influenced the decision.

Brentford visit Molineux next Saturday so it will be interesting to see how they fare against a more physical threat in Ivan Toney.

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