Wolves fell to late heartbreak against Arsenal, as it looked so close to a snatch-and-grab point in the capital.
The Old Gold frustrated Arsenal throughout most of the match, and the Gunners could not find a way through for 70 minutes.
A fluke own goal from Sam Johnstone after a Bukayo Saka corner would finally break the deadlock, but the Wanderers still looked to grab something from the game.
Rob Edwards’ side would find that equaliser in added time, as Tolu Arokodare headed past David Raya.
But then the Premier League leaders found more luck when Yerson Mosquera headed in yet another goal for Wolves.
And while the defeat will be hard to take, there is one player who has proven he is ready to start games for the Old Gold.
- READ MORE: Wolves player ratings vs Arsenal, Ladislav Krejci puts in a rare 4/10, and plenty 7/10s despite loss
Despite defeat, there was plenty of positives to take away from that Wolves performance.
Mateus Mane has to start for Wolves going forward after Arsenal cameo
Wolves fans have been calling for Mateus Mane to become a regular first-team player for most of the season, and the youngster has certainly rewarded those who did.
While he only came on in the 86th minute, his quality was clear to see. Mane brought energy, and he provided a freshness to Wolves’ attack that has been much needed.
Then in the 91st minute, he would combine with Tolu Arokodare. The academy prospect put in an excellent cross for the Nigerian to head past David Raya.
And it was this decisiveness and this level of service that the Old Gold’s forwards have been lacking.
If there was ever a sign that he was ready for the Premier League, it was providing a crucial moment for his side against the league leaders.
He has to start against Brentford now.
Little amount of minutes for Mateus Mane, but a big impact. Should he be one of the first names in the starting XI against Brentford now?
If you are good enough, you are old enough.
Tolu Arokodare has to be Wolves’ striker next week as well
While Mane’s cross was pinpoint, the finish was also just as good.
Tolu Arokodare must join Mateus Mane in next week’s starting XI. The Nigerian did not get many chances, but he managed to score the one he did get.
Jorgen Strand Larsen has been struggling up top and has been subject to criticism from Wolves fans. Owen Hargreaves believes that is stemming from his failed Newcastle transfer in the summer.
However, with Tolu confirmed to be staying throughout December instead of going to AFCON, Edwards has to build on his confidence.
Scoring a goal against Arsenal, despite the loss, will provide Arokodare with a needed boost heading into the next matches.
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