Wolves 2-0 Southampton: O'Neil's First Win of the Season
Wolves finally secured their first Premier League win of the season, defeating Southampton 2-0 at Molineux on Saturday. The victory, which came courtesy of goals from Matheus Cunha and Pablo Sarabia, brought much-needed relief to manager Gary O'Neil and the Wolves faithful.
A Dominant Display
Wolves dominated the match from the outset, showcasing a level of intensity and organization that had been absent in their opening two defeats. Their high press forced Southampton into numerous errors, and they controlled possession with confidence.
The breakthrough came in the 18th minute when Cunha expertly finished a well-worked team move. Wolves continued to create chances throughout the first half, with Hwang Hee-chan and Sasa Kalajdzic both coming close to extending the lead.
Sealing the Win
Southampton struggled to mount any meaningful attacks in the first half. Wolves continued their dominance in the second half, and Sarabia's 74th-minute goal effectively sealed the victory. The Spaniard, who joined Wolves on loan from PSG during the summer, displayed his quality with a precise finish from inside the box.
O'Neil's Relief
The win was a welcome boost for O'Neil, who was under increasing pressure following a disappointing start to the season. "It was a great performance," he said after the match. "We were very dominant, and I'm delighted for the players and the fans."
Key Takeaways
- Wolves' attacking prowess: Cunha's goal and the team's overall attacking play showed a marked improvement from previous weeks.
- O'Neil's tactics: The manager's tactical changes, including a more attacking approach, paid off.
- Southampton's struggles: The Saints continue to struggle, having lost their first three Premier League matches.
Looking Ahead
The win will give Wolves a much-needed confidence boost ahead of their upcoming fixture against Manchester United. Southampton, meanwhile, will need to find a way to improve quickly if they are to avoid a relegation battle this season.