Premier League wins are a rarity for Wolves these days but the Old Gold delivered a masterclass at Craven Cottage on Saturday afternoon.
Wolves clinched a 4-1 victory over Fulham and climbed out of the relegation zone after Crystal Palace drew at Aston Villa.
It was an outcome that few could have predicted before kick-off, especially after Wolves were without Santiago Bueno, Craig Dawson and Pablo Sarabia for the match.
But when Gary O’Neil has Matheus Cunha on the pitch, anything is possible. The Brazilian superstar turned in another special performance after scoring a brace and assisting once.
Cunha’s first goal was shades of Dennis Bergkamp, as one Wolves fan pointed out, while his second was a beautifully curled strike into the top right corner.
The 25-year-old stole the show as O’Neil labelled Cunha’s display as ‘incredible’ but he wasn’t the only one who produced heroics on the pitch.
Joao Gomes was unplayable in the win over Fulham
Joao Gomes joined his Brazilian counterpart in dominating the pitch at Craven Cottage.
The 23-year-old started alongside Andre as Mario Lemina was forced to play centre-back but he proved why clubs across Europe are admiring Gomes.
A shield in front of the defence, a driving force in possession and a difference maker in the final third, the midfielder’s performance was as complete as any you’ll see this season.
Gomes putting his side ahead with a fine finish was just the icing on the cake, as his performance warranted ‘incredible’ praise from O’Neil, per Wolves’ official website.
Gomes stats vs Fulham
- 77 touches
- 1 goal
- 1 assist
- 47/50 accurate passes (94%)
- 1 key pass
- 2 shots on target
- 3 successful dribbles
- 10/16 ground duels won
- 5 tackles
The above statistics highlight how crucial he was in the thrashing of Fulham, not only for his goal involvement but the work off the ball that’s become synonymous with the Brazilian.
- READ MORE: Matheus Cunha has become the second player in Wolves’ history to achieve spectacular feat
Mario Lemina also deserves his flowers
Lemina, who was named Wolves captain at the start of the season, lead by example on the pitch.
Normally an all-action central midfielder, the Gabon international was tasked with playing centre-back, and he did it superbly.
O’Neil’s switch to a back three would have worried supporters ahead of the game but Lemina quelled any pessimism by turning in an outstanding performance.
Playing alongside Toti Gomes, the 31-year-old produced the world-class long-range pass for Cunha’s first goal and was a monster in defence.
Lemina made six clearances, four tackles, won each of his four ground duels and recorded 84% of his passes accurately – a simply stunning display from captain fantastic.