Two Wolves players disappointed as the Old Gold suffered defeat to Newcastle United at Molineux.
It was another dreary afternoon at Molineux in the Premier League for Wolves, who saw their lead slip away against Newcastle.
Gary O’Neil went from feeling ecstatic to a familiar feeling of deflation as the Magpies crept back into the game thanks to two sensational strikes.
Captain Mario Lemina gave Wolves the lead in the first half in stylish fashion although, his contribution was not enough to hand the hosts the win.
A super strike from Fabian Schar was copied by Harvey Barnes to give Newcastle the lead late on, leaving O’Neil waiting for his first three points in the 2024/25 Premier League season.
There were some top performers on the day and some who didn’t take their chance to shine, here’s our playing ratings.
Wolves player ratings v Newcastle United
Sam Johnstone – 5.5
It’s clear that Johnstone is a safe pair of hands however, the Englishman was taking far too long on the ball from dead-ball situations which fuelled unnecessary anxiety inside Molineux.
Rayan Ait-Nouri – 6
Ait-Nouri looked a lot better defensively and as ever, was so confident going forward. The Algerian adds a spark like no other to Wolves’ best XI.
Craig Dawson – 6.5
Dawson is O’Neil’s Mr Reliable in this Wolves squad, as seen through his impact early into the season.
The Englishman was like a wall in the Old Gold’s back line and was unfortunate to have got a slight touch on Newcastle’s equaliser.
Yerson Mosquera – 6
Playing next to Dawson will be of great use to Mosquera, whose confidence is growing week by week in a Wolves shirt. Aside from being strong defensively, the Colombian showed little fear in possession.
Nelson Semedo – 6
Struggled to contain Gordon in the first half but soon grew into the game when his attacking strengths were able to be showcased. Semedo certainly had a game of two halves when it came to defensive and offensive work.
Mario Lemina – 8
The goalscorer and so positive going forward, Lemina got himself into dangerous positions and could have had more than one in the game. A tireless energy and such an imposing leader in the squad.
Andre – 7
It was a really strong debut for Andre considering how little time he’s had to adapt to his new club. The Brazilian showed his defensive and attacking strengths in the middle of the park and dictated play exceptionally well.
Joao Gomes – 7
Unbelievable work from Gomes in Lemina’s goal, the midfielder won possession back then played a deceiving dummy to allow his captain to score. Will enjoy working alongside Andre this season in the engine room.
Jean-Ricner Bellegarde – 6.5
After a lacklustre first season, Bellegarde is finally starting to shine as he continued his impressive start to the campaign against Newcastle. The Frenchman showed a tireless approach to the game.
Matheus Cunha – 7
A constant livewire for Wolves whether it be in the final third or in the midfield, Cunha was everywhere for O’Neil’s side.
Jorgen Strand Larsen – 7.5
Superb hold up play and pass to set up Lemina, really finding his feet in the Premier League. Strand Larsen’s movement was sensational throughout.
Substitutes
Matt Doherty – 4
After Semedo was withdrawn, the batton was passed to Doherty, who failed at his job to protect Wolves’ lead. The Irishman showed little interest in closing down Harvey Barnes in the build up to the Newcastle star’s winner.
Hwang Hee-chan – 4
Hwang has an exemplary record against Newcastle however, that was not on show today as the Korean’s introduction to the game only took away the structure that Wolves had become accustomed to.
Carlos Forbs – 6
As far as debut cameo’s go, Forbs was incredibly bright, showing the energy he can offer on the flank. The winger got into several good positions and displayed his electrifying pace.