Wolves opened their FA Cup campaign on Friday night with a 1-1 draw with Brentford, in the game there was one player who really caught the eye.
”As Wolves headed to Brentford for the second time in two weeks, confidence was high. Gary O’Neil had the intention of continuing his sides three game-win streak.’As Wolves headed to Brentford for the second time in two weeks, confidence was high. Gary O’Neil had the intention of continuing his sides three game win streak.”As Wolves headed to Brentford for the second time in two weeks, confidence was high. Gary O’Neil had the intention of continuing his sides three game-win streak.’As Wolves headed to Brentford for the second time in two weeks, confidence was high. Gary O’Neil had the intention of continuing his sides three game win streak.
However, ultimately in the end Wolves faced a vastly improved Brentford side and were lucky to hold on for a 1-1 draw with 10 men.
Joao Gomes saw red in the ninth minute which left Wolves with a tricky task. The red was seen by many to be a harsh call, however it was hardly a howler.
The real howler came as Brentford avoided a red later in the game on two occasions. But refereeing decisions aside the game saw Tommy Doyle grab Wolves’ goal thanks to yet another Pedro Neto assist.
But it’s a different player who has impressed us…
Matt Doherty impresses vs Brentford
With Rayan Ait-Nouri off to AFCON, the left-back position is severely weakened. Or at least that is what many thought prior to this game but after Matt Doherty‘s latest display, concerns are gone.
Doherty was in immense form for Wolves here, scoring a 7.4 SofaScore rating his stats showcase why.
The 31-year-old made two key passes in the game with his 45 touches despite not boasting a great completion percentage.
His main strength was seen defensively though as he won 14 duels out of 19 attempted which is an impressive return. He also made five clearances and three tackles as he helped Wolves to earn a replay against Brentford.
Doherty can force O’Neil into a huge decision
While Ait-Nouri is away, Doherty has the chance to give Gary O’Neil a real decision to make. The two full-backs couldn’t be more different stylistically and obviously Ait-Nouri offers more on the ball.
Doherty offers more off the ball in return which could be what O’Neil is looking for and so with a few more top displays he could be in too good form to drop.
A great start from Doherty, hopefully, he can continue next time out in a similar manner.