On Sunday afternoon, there was not the usual glut of games. Instead, all attention was on St James Park, as Newcastle hosted Wolves in the only top-flight game of the day. In the end, it turned out to be an entertaining affair, as Wolves recorded a late 2-1 win over the Magpies.
Last gasp victory for the visitors
The visitors took the lead after just 17 minutes. Portuguese winger Helder Costa picked out compatriot Diogo Jota, who produced good control with his chest before volleying past Martin Dubravka from a few yards out.
It took just six minutes for the home side to level the scores though. Salomon Rondon hit a superb free-kick that cannoned off the bar. However, the ball eventually arrived back with the Venezuelan whose centre found Ayoze Perez and the Spaniard flicked a header past Rui Patricio.
The home side made a crucial change in personnel at half-time, as Javier Manquillo replaced Federico Fernandez. The move meant that USA full-back DeAndre Yedlin shifted into the centre of defence.
Yedlin’s afternoon was cut short though, as on 57 minutes he was shown a red card. The American slipped and allowed Jota to seize possession of the ball. As the attacker went through on goal Yedlin pulled him back and the referee had little choice but to dismiss him.
The visitors came close to taking the lead on 74 minutes, as substitute Raul Jimenez hit the crossbar from around 20 yards out. Dubravka also kept out a Matt Doherty effort, but the Irish international did get on the scoresheet in deep into stoppage-time, just it looked like the home side heading for a point.
Dubravka could only parry a Jota effort and Doherty was on hand to head home from close range to give his side all three points.
Matt Doherty a major attacking threat
Wolves’ match-winner, Republic of Ireland international Matt Doherty has emerged as a major attacking threat from his wing-back role this season. The 26-year-old has now scored three goals and produced three assists in the Premier League.
Doherty’s attacking threat has been evident all season, but he has produced tangible returns in recent weeks, scoring twice and producing one assist in his last three league outings.
The wing-back is also emerging as a great Fantasy Football option. He may well appear in our ones to watch articles in the near future after making previous appearances in the past.
What it means for both teams
The game was Newcastle third consecutive Premier League game with a victory. The poor run of form means that the Magpies are 15th place in the table, just three points above the relegation zone.
Wolves have now recorded two straight league wins following up their midweek win over Chelsea with this potentially vital win. The victory was also the Midlander’s first away from home in the top-flight since October.
Nuno Santo Espirito’s side are now 10th place in the table and just four points off fourth place. Wolves look good value for a top ten finish this season now they are accustomed to the top-flight.
Do Wolves have the quality to finish in the Premier League top ten?
