Wolverhampton Wanderers fans have been praising goalkeeper Rui Patricio for his contributions in yesterday’s 2-1 win over Southampton.
The veteran stopper was on hand to make some key saves for the visitors after conceding to Danny Ings in the first-half.
Patricio made a fine double-save in the second-half from Saints captain James Ward-Prowse and then Che Adams in an act that helped assure the much-needed victory.
There have been some question marks in recent weeks about Patricio’s form.
The 90-cap Portugal star, who turns 33 today, has arguably not been at his usual top level and some were evening calling for John Ruddy to come into the side a few weeks ago.
As a former goalkeeper himself, Nuno Espirito Santo knows the challenges someone in the position can face, and ultimately backed Patricio to rediscover his mojo.
And it seems he’s been able to do that.
Against Southampton, he achieved a score of 7.90 on BBC Sport which was the second-highest behind match-winner Pedro Neto.
The Athletic’s Tim Spiers branded him ‘flawless’, and it seems many fans shared that point of view on social media:
#wwfc | Rui 🧤🧤 🛑
A special mention for Rui Patricio who played a big part in #wwfc securing the three points against Southampton today.
Some top stops, brave and solid handling.
Well played @rpatricio1_.
— Ryan Leister (@MrRyanLeister) February 14, 2021
MOTM, outstanding 👌🏻
— Craig Gracey (@Gracey1970) February 14, 2021
He has looked distinctly dodgy lately but very good today
— EzzaWolf (@ezzalodge) February 14, 2021
MOTM for me
— ShifnalWolf (@famous_wolves) February 14, 2021
Ward-Prowse and Adams denied by Rui Patricio. Sensational bravery by the goalkeeper to keep the score 2-1. Adams was offside anyway but Patricio didn’t know. #wwfc
— Josh Holland🐺 (@JoshHolland_) February 14, 2021
At least Rui Patricio looks sharp #wwfc
— Ken maher (@1madchef) February 14, 2021
Patricio is so important for us. 2 great saves already #wwfc #wolves #SOUWOL
— Benjamin M L Smith (@BenjaminTeach97) February 14, 2021
In the Wolves Twitter parlance of our times, put some respect on his name.
No chance with Ings goal but some BIG saves from Rui Patricio today helped secure three points. 🙌
🧡🐺#SOUWOL #EPL #WWFC #Wolvesaywe pic.twitter.com/dvXaqRXvPi
— LVWLVS (@lvwlvs) February 14, 2021
Don’t forget Rui Patricio today
Thought he was sneaky excellent #wwfc
— Nathan Judah (@NathanJudah) February 14, 2021
MOTM in my opinion.
— Paul Upton (@uppywolf) February 14, 2021