Four things we learned after Wolves fell to a 2-0 defeat to damage their hopes of European football.
Despite a good start at Villa Park, Gary O’Neil’s side were unable to take advantage. The visitors had a golden opportunity to take the lead when the ball found Rayan Ait-Nouri but failed to find the net from close range.
Villa then piled on the pressure and eventually went in front before half-time through Moussa Diaby. Erzi Konsa then doubled the hosts lead on the hour mark to make it a miserable night for Wolves.
Now, in the aftermath of the result we reflect on four things we learned from the defeat.
Wolves need a defender in the summer
Another game without a clean sheet now for Wolves with this issue looking far from being rectified. Despite a good start which Wolves should have took advantage of, Villa managed to squeeze in front just before half-time.
It was a suckerpunch for the side but it was of their own doing. The backline went to sleep from a set piece which eventually saw the ball deflect to Moussa Diaby who hammered it into the net.
Wolves’ defence just looks more shaky as weeks go on, especially without Craig Dawson. Villa could have gone ahead multiple times beforehand but the visitors failed to tighten up.
If O’Neil wants this team to return to the top-half regularly, a new defender to re-secure their backline is a must.
Star men a miss for Wolves
While it may be obvious, Wolves’ star players were once again a big miss. Wolves were well on top in the opening exchanges but couldn’t take advantage.
Rayan Ait-Nouri’s chance early on was perfect to give the visitors the lead. Yet, despite his recent run of goals, he was unable to hit the back of the net.
If that would have been Hwang Hee-Chan, Matheus Cunha or Pedro Neto, you’d bet your house Wolves would have gone in front.
While Leon Chiwome is still young, he sadly had little impact in the first half and Mario Lemina was unable to be as affective on the wing.
The return of these star men couldn’t come quickly enough. Luckily, Cunha should be back sooner rather than later.
Joao Gomes continues to shine
While many of Wolves’ players went missing in the derby, when player who didn’t deserve to be on the losing side was Joao Gomes.
The Brazilian was brilliant in the middle, constantly breaking down Villa’s attacks and dominating the centre at times.
Joao Gomes made seven tackles in the match and was equally impressive in attack. His run early in the second half earned Wolves a great free-kick which was wasted.
After his debut for his country last week, he has now followed it up with another great performance.
Europe now out of reach for Wolves?
With the injuries now stacking up for Wolves Europe may now be out of reach for O’Neil’s side.
The result against Coventry was a real suckerpunch for the side and after Wolves went behind, they seemed to loss all confidence.
Even when the visitors had a bright spell at the start of the second half, O’Neil had no options on the bench to bring on and continue their momentum.
With other teams such as Newcastle now hitting form, Europe may be a step too far for the club this season.