DAZZLING DAVE WRITES FOR BBCSPORT & ASKS IF A DRAW AT BRIGHTON WAS A TURNING POINT FOR WOLVES
Matheus Cunha’s late goal at Amex Stadium was not just about levelling the score. It was a sudden shot of adrenaline that lifted spirits both on and off the pitch.
Fans erupted with joy as the team showed resilience and determination to fight back and draw with Brighton. Could this be the turning point they have been waiting for or did it just paper over the cracks?
A draw might not seem like a monumental achievement, yet its psychological impact cannot be underestimated. With renewed self-assurance and belief this draw could represent more than just a point on the table – it might be the shift in momentum we desperately need.
Gary O’Neil’s tactical choices, particularly his formation decisions, have garnered scrutiny. Some Wolves fans have expressed concerned about his post-match comments: “I’m a little bit disappointed with myself, really, that I started with a [back] five.”
Gary is of course correct that the way we played in a five stifled any attacking threat we had, but it was doomed from the start with three defensive midfielders ahead, leaving everyone stuck behind the ball.
The switch to a back four paid off but we must not forget that this was brave. Our defensive frailties in a back four have been exploited week in, week out. Even amid celebration, the draw highlighted stark weaknesses. Defensive lapses remain a troubling Achilles heel for the team. But credit where credit is due, Gary got his substitutions spot on this week.
The path ahead is not easy, but it does present opportunities. With a more favourable run of fixtures, pressure mounts on O’Neil. His future hinges on steering Wolves out of their current predicament, and the games against Crystal Palace and Southampton might just be the stage for his redemption or downfall.
