FOR THIS WEEKS BBC SPORT COLUMN WE TAKE A LOOK AT MARIO LEMINA'S ROLE IN THE WIN AGAINST FULHAM
When I heard on Saturday morning that Santi Bueno and Craig Dawson were unavailable, I braced myself for the worst. But what unfolded at Craven Cottage turned out to be a surprisingly enjoyable afternoon.
Whilst the spotlight was on Matheus Cunha, Mario Lemina also deserves plaudits for his remarkable performance. Typically known for his role at the heart of midfield—breaking up play, making powerful tackles, and threading creative passes—Lemina found himself stepping in at centre-back. And he excelled in the role.
Lemina led by example, defending tirelessly to shield José Sá’s goal while driving the team forward with composure. His leadership and adaptability were on full display as he seamlessly transitioned into the makeshift defensive role, looking like a natural in the position.
In his post-match interview, Cunha cheekily suggested Lemina should play centre-back more often, and it’s hard to disagree. The performance was reminiscent of Nuno’s decision to transform Conor Coady from a midfielder into a ball-playing centre-back—a shift that became pivotal for Wolves. Similarly, Lemina showcased his ability to distribute the ball creatively from deep, including a sumptuous assist for Cunha’s first goal.
Special mentions must also go to André and João Gomes, who both put in tireless shifts. Their energy contributed to the defensive improvement and also added flair to some slick attacking play, offering a much-needed boost after recent struggles.
What stood out most at Craven Cottage, however, was the team’s collective spirit. For Wolves fans, there’s nothing more important than seeing a team fighting for the badge. When players show commitment and passion, they earn something priceless from the fans—love and loyalty. Raul Jiménez received a heartfelt reception over the weekend, a reminder of what that bond means. If the current squad continues to perform with this kind of grit, a few more heroes will surely emerge.
Thanks to this unity and determination, Wolves now find themselves outside the relegation zone and Gary O’Neil might just be orchestrating an incredible escape.
