Wolves opened up a 9 point gap over Cardiff City after a dramatic 0-1 win at the Cardiff City Stadium to effectively seal the top spot and an automatic promotion to the Premier League after Ruben Neves’s gorgeous freekick proved to be the difference as Cardiff missed 2 penalties in stoppage time.
Both teams had opportunities in the first half but Etheridge and Ruddy kept the scoreline goalless with a string of fine stops, Etheridge in particular with a great stop to deny Neves and Ruddy had to be alert to palm away a goal-bound freekick. Wolves looked happy with the 0-0 but Neves stepped up to curl a beauty in the 67th minute. Costa missed a great chance to seal the game but couldn’t finish five minutes from time before Cardiff incredibly, got 2 spot kicks in the final 5 minutes. However, both were missed by Gunnarson and Hoilett as Wolves somehow managed to go home with the win.
John Ruddy- 8/10
Kept busy in goal and did very well on long balls and crosses. His best save was a superb diving one off a Wildschut freekick.
Ryan Bennett- 7.5/10
An extremely busy day at the office as Cardiff piled a huge amount of pressure but just about managed to deal with it with well-timed tackles and interceptions. However, was caught napping as Joe Bennett slipped in on goal.
Conor Coady- 6/10
The worst of the 3 centre backs, Coady was guilty of giving away a penalty in stoppage time but was bailed out by the opposition’s miss.
Willy Boly- 8/10
Stand out member of that defence, marshalled the backline very well and held his position with great aplomb.
Matt Doherty- 6.5/10
Not the best games for the Irish wingback as he couldn’t contribute much offensively and was caught out of position multiple times, particularly in the 35th minute but Joe Bennett missed when through.
Barry Douglas- 7/10
Did a better job than Doherty and was more assured on his flank.
Roman Saiss- 7/10
Hardworking display as he was constantly asked questions by a rampant Cardiff side but coped well.
Ruben Neves- 8.5/10
Star of the show yet again as he capped off another strong midfield performance with a sensational free-kick to score his 5th from outside the box this season. His powerful displays won’t go unnoticed by the Premier League clubs especially as Wolves look sure to get promoted.
Diogo Jota- 5.5/10
Poor day for the young Portuguese as he struggled to influence the game in the final third.
Benik Afobe- 7/10
Was starved in the way of chances but tried his hardest up top, often isolated. Showed his strength to hold the ball up multiple times and slipped in Bonatini who hit the post.
Leo Bonatini- 6.5/10
Tried combining with Afobe and nearly scored but hit the outside of the post.
SUBSTITUTES
Helder Costa (Bonatini 58’) – 6/10
Missed a great chance on 85 minutes to seal the game.
Ivan Cavaleiro(Jota 67’)- 5/10
Conceded a penalty in stoppage time.
Alfred N’Diaye (Afobe 78’) – 6/10
Brought on to shore things up in midfield and did just that.
