It has taken a while for Wolves to get off the mark in the Premier League but the Old Gold’s performance against Tottenham provided some hope for the campaign.
Wolves deserved three points, but in football, you do not always get what you deserve, and Tottenham’s late equaliser to make it 1-1 certainly reduced the positivity. However, there were still plenty of positives to take from the game.
Jhon Arias was exceptional vs Spurs, and the Colombian was handed the man of the match for his efforts.
Additionally, Jackson Tchatchoua was praised for his cameo off the bench. The Cameroonian added much-needed pace out wide.
However, there should also be more praise for Vitor Pereira, who made a bold decision that paid off in the end despite a disappointing finish.
Vitor Pereira needs to keep playing the same Wolves players now
After the game, journalist Liam Keen said via the Express and Star that Vitor Pereira’s team selection was both ‘brave and unexpected’ and in many ways it was.
While we saw Pereira use a back four against Everton earlier in the week, it was certainly a surprise when the Old Gold arrived in London looking to do the same.
Tottenham Hotspur are a team filled with attacking talent, and nobody would have been bemused at the Portuguese opting to go with his usual three centre-backs and wingbacks to try and nullify the threat.
But the tactical shift worked once again. Throughout the opening half, Spurs only had one real moment that caused any danger.
Kudus’ point-blank header was expertly pushed away by Sam Johnstone, and that was all they had really done prior to Palhinha’s late equaliser.
Wolves had looked assured defensively, and the performance levels of the players on the pitch were the highest they have been this season
Pereira has continuously opted to chop and change this season, but now is the time to remain with his ‘brave’ selection against Spurs.
It worked wonders.
Vitor Pereira can switch between the two systems during a match
In the second half, the back three returned and Wolves began looking like the more dominant side going forward.
While the spoils were ultimately shared, the Old Gold deserved so much more, and that is to Pereira’s credit.
Not only was his team selection brave, but the decision to revert back to the three defenders was also bold.
The in-game switch between the two systems can be something that can catch opposition managers out, and it could be a real asset moving forward.
If teams do not know which Wolves are going to turn up, they won’t be able to properly prepare.