Arsenal had too much at The Emirates winning 2-1 despite a late Wolves revival, here are five things we learned.
Bukayo Saka opened the scoring in the sixth minute before the lead was doubled seven minutes later in the 13th minute.
Matheus Cunha got one back for Wolves late in the second half but ultimately it wasn’t enough to deny Arsenal the three points.
That’s how it remained, as Wolves managed to keep the scoreline respectable while dealing with the absence of multiple key players.
There were multiple talking points from this game, here are five things we learned as Gary O’Neil‘s side lost a second in a row.
Mario Lemina is Wolves’ key man and was sorely missed
If there is one man whose importance to Wolves was demonstrated against Arsenal it was Mario Lemina. One of the best players in the team, he’s shown himself to be invaluable and irreplaceable in the centre of the midfield for Gary O’Neil.
Without Lemina Wolves just weren’t able to get a foothold in the game as they did against the likes of Liverpool, Manchester United, Spurs and Manchester City.
Before the duo in midfield could even begin to try and grab ahold of the game, Arsenal were already 2-0 up.
Jose Sa injured
In the first half, Jose Sa was withdrawn as he looked in a great deal of pain which of course will be a concern.
It looked like a back injury as he held it while walking off to be replaced.
It will be hugely concerning for O’Neil however fingers will be crossed that it isn’t serious and he won’t miss much time.
Hugo Bueno does well for Wolves
It’s difficult to come into the team lacking match sharpness and having to face the league leaders. For that Hugo Bueno deserves some praise as he did well facing Bukayo Saka.
Bueno won a lot of duels and in the absence of a key player like Rayan Ait-Nouri, did himself justice and he can be happy with his display – despite Wolves being completely outplayed.
Matheus Cunha on the scoresheet again for Wolves
Cunha scored for his second consecutive game in the 86th minute and while it wasn’t enough to secure a win, he will be delighted to be among the goals.
The Brazilian spent all season in the shadow of Hwang Hee-Chan and Pedro Neto but has become Wolves’ key attacking force lately.
O’Neil can be pleased with the response from Wolves
While a defeat is never wanted, Wolves at one point in the first half looked set for a thumping. This however didn’t happen as they defended excellently to keep the scoreline down.
This great defensive work gave them a chance toward the end of the game after Cunha’s goal.
Positives to take for O’Neil, especially considering all the absences he had for this one.