Wolves earned a hard-fought win at Portman Road over Ipswich Town to stretch their lead at the top to 12 points and snap a 2 game winless run in the league. Matt Doherty’s header in the 15th minute from very close range from a Barry Douglas cross proved to be the decisive moment in the game, although Nuno’s men had a few other gilt-edged opportunities to increase their margin of victory.
Diogo Jota, in particular, was guilty of profligacy in front of goal, spurning some great chances, particularly in the 30th minute when his shot from inside the box was saved by Bialkowski. The Ipswich keeper made a great save to deny Barry Douglas, diving well to his right to keep the goalbound shot out. Ruddy had just one save to make, and did well to tip McGoldrick’s effort over the bar. Bialkowski made further saves in the second half to keep out Bonatini and Enobakhare to keep Ipswich in the game but Wolves managed to take another crucial 3 points towards promotion.
This is how the Wolves players have been rated for their winning display.
John Ruddy- 6.5
Had to be alert on 2 occasions, and did well both times to deny McGoldrick and Celina.
Willy Boly- 8/10
Wolves’ best defender, dealt with everything with great confidence, especially on set pieces and showed excellent composure on the ball.
Conor Coady- 7/10
Playing as the sweeper in the back 3, mopped up any loose balls and made some vital clearances. No nonsense display.
Ryan Bennett- 6/10
Looked uncomfortable, especially vs Celina as he was constantly stretched.
Matt Doherty- 7.5/10
Scored the all-important goal but had a tough night as Celina proved to be a tricky customer but did very well against him.
Alfred N’Diaye- 8.5/10
Man of the match display. In Romain Saiss’ absence, really stepped up. Dynamic display as he shielded the defence with vigour and a menace going forward. Helped set up the goal with a delightful flick.
Ruben Neves- 7/10
Excellent in possession, as he kept the ball moving from the centre of the pitch. Wayward shots take his grade down, however.
Barry Douglas- 7/10
Assisted the goal with a great cross and nearly got on the scoresheet himself but was denied by Bialkowski. Always a threat going forward.
Helder Costa- 5.5/10
The game passed him by as he struggled to get involved in anything bar a few moves.
Diogo Jota- 7.5/10
Another thorn in Ipswich’s side, stretched the Tractor Boys’ defence whenever he could. Wasteful in front of goal, however, as he was denied by Bialkowski and messed up a glorious opening as he looked to set up Costa when he should’ve gone for goal himself.
Ivan Cavaleiro- 6/10
Another player who struggled to get into the game, but unlike Costa, he got to see a bit more of the ball and did well whenever he did get it.
SUBSTITUTES
Leo Bonatini (Cavaleiro 71’) – 6/10
Had a shot from a tight angle well saved by Bialkowski.
Bright Enobakhare (Costa 78’) – 6/10
Didn’t get too involved but tested the Ipswich goal with a thumping effort.
