ALWAYS WOLVES PRODUCER EMMA SHARES HER INSIGHTS FOLLOWING WOLVES DEFEAT TO LIVERPOOL
As the Premier League rolls on, Wolves found themselves grappling with yet another setback in a tense encounter against Liverpool. Despite putting up a spirited fight at Molineux, the Wolves couldn’t break their winless streak, succumbing 2-1 to the visiting Reds. The match was full of twists, seeing Rayan Ait-Nouri initially spark hope with an equaliser, but Mohamed Salah’s decisive penalty dashed hopes and dreams of a comeback.
Here’s a few key things to takeaway from this one
1. It wasn’t as grim as expected
Many expected Wolves to falter spectacularly against Liverpool, a team currently riding high in the Premier League. With key player Yerson Mosquera injured and a virus affecting the squad, a heavy defeat seemed likely. However, Wolves were resilient despite these predictions, they produced a performance that showed grit and determination. They kept the game competitive, even finding the net. This match wasn’t just about surviving but proving they can challenge strong opponents. It highlights what Wolves are capable of, even when the odds are stacked against them.
2. Player Commitment
The players’ dedication was clear from the get-go. Look at Mario Lemina’s emotional response post-match — a testament to how much the result meant to them. His display of passion on the field was mirrored by his teammates, who fought fiercely throughout. Each player showed they were willing to leave everything on the pitch, making the game more than just a statistic. Such commitment drives the team forward, even in tough times. Gary O’Neil does not appear to have lost the dressing room despite a run of poor results and it is evident that players are still working their socks off for him.
3. Support from Fans
If you look at social media you will see plenty of calls for Gary O’Neil to be sacked. However this doesn’t appear to be reflected in the stadium. There were no boos or jeers and plenty of applause at the end of the performance. One might expect disgruntled fans when results don’t go as hoped, but Wolves supporters showed unwavering support during the game at least at this point in time.
4. Defensive Concerns
Wolves fans will all probably tell you we are light on defence and have concerns on the personnel in this area. Sporting Director Matt Hobbs denied this was the case this week and even stated that if another centre back had been brought in this window Bueno would go out on loan. However, Yerson Mosquera is out for the season, Craig Dawson was out with illness. The situation worsened when Santiago Bueno had to leave the pitch due to a glute injury. In response, Gary O’Neil moved captain and midfielder Mario Lemina back to bolster the defence. Despite any statements from Wolves management, it’s clear that there’s a significant issues in the defensive line.
5. Possession Play Issues
Wolves’ possession play needs sharpening. There was a noticeable lack of urgency when trailing, which allowed Liverpool to seize control. The passing, though intended to be strategic, often appeared hesitant. Wolves must adapt, learning to press with confidence and make decisive moves forward. Emphasising a faster, more aggressive style could bring them the results they’re striving for. Even pundit Gary Neville expressed his frustration with Wolves playing around at the back whilst needing to push to get something from the game. The lack of directness is frustrating.
6. One Touch Hwang
Hwang came on as a sub and played 21 minutes, during that time he got one touch of the ball – yes just one! I’ve been critical of Hwang for several weeks about him being invisible and almost feeling like we go down to ten men when he’s on the pitch. But it’s not all down to Hwang, we have to examine the failure of the team to get any service to the forwards. Strand Larsen has also suffered from lack of service and opportunity but he does work hard to hold the ball up and create opportunities. Forwards can appear isolated and this is something that needs to improve.
7. GARY O’NEIL’S ADAPTABILITY
Liverpool didn’t show their best form today, giving Wolves a real chance to snatch a late goal and earn a result.
O’Neil has faced recent criticism for his substitutions, and this match didn’t improve his reputation, as Wolves struggled to alter the game’s flow. There was a lack of urgency to attack Liverpool aggressively by getting Matheus Cunha and Carlos Forbs into threatening positions.
Gary said he would adapt his tactics to whichever team we were facing and I have seen little evidence of this. I feel like his substitutes are all pre-planned rather than reacting to the opposition and the needs of the game. I think Gary has been disappointing on this front so far this season.
