Wolves defender Toti Gomes was one of Vitor Pereira’s best performers during the FA Cup defeat to Bournemouth.
In what was a nightmare outing for the Old Gold at the Vitality, Toti was one of the shining lights.
The game had everything that Wolves didn’t want amid their battles with relegation, as players were injured, suspended and played 120 minutes of football.
Aside from the several lows, there were some positives for Pereira to take into the remaining Premier League action, as two stood out for their performances.
- READ MORE: One winner and three losers after Wolves suffer FA Cup penalty heartbreak against Bournemouth
Toti Gomes reflects on Wolves defeat to Bournemouth
For all of the Wolves squad’s efforts over 120 minutes of action, the talking point of the game was undoubtedly Matheus Cunha’s red card.
The Brazilian was sent off in the final moments of extra-time, seeing him suspended for the next three fixtures in a massive blow for the Old Gold.
Sadly, Cunha’s moment of madness saw some top performances get overlooked to some degree, one of which being Toti’s.
While Toti earned mixed reviews against Bournemouth, the Portugal international did something that will make Wolves fans happier than anything.
“I was giving my life to defend the goal,” Toti revealed to Wolves’ official website.
“We knew they were going to come with everything, and I was giving everything to help the team, clearing from the goal and I scored my penalty, but in the end, I’m sad with the result because we lost, but still proud.”
The centre-back was tested against the Cherries’ tricky forwards but kept his cool, rising as one of the Old Gold’s best on a tough afternoon.
Toti’s admission to giving his life to keep Wolves in the game is exactly what fans want to see from players at this stage of the season, with the hurdles set to keep coming for Pereira’s squad.
Toti was monstrous for Wolves vs Bournemouth
Several players have benefitted from Pereira’s arrival, very few more than Toti, who has been rejuvenated by the new Wolves manager.
Toti came under fierce criticism at the start of the season but has found a way to turn his fortune around, deserving immense credit for his hard work.
| Toti Gomes vs Bournemouth |
| 120 minutes |
| 9 clearances |
| 6 blocks |
| 7 tackles |
| 1 off-line clearance |
| 100% ground duels won |
| 50% aerial duels won |
| 1 penalty shoot out goal |
Against Bournemouth, the defender led by example despite being fatigued after a relentless 120 minutes, contributing to an eye-watering 22 defensive actions.
If there’s one positive to take from the gruelling visit to the Vitality, it’s that Toti performed close to his best once again, transforming his season to be regarded as a firm starter in Pereira’s back three.