Wolves player ratings v Man City: Three 8/10s but one 5/10 in last-gasp defeat

Wolves, propelled by an early opener from Jorgen Strand Larsen, looked set to claim their second point of the new Premier League season but City, as they so often do, found a way through a Josko Gvardiol long-ranger and a last-gasp header from Stones.

Strand Larsen’s goal, just eight minutes in, roared Molineux into life and gave Wolves confidence they could compete. It worked a treat for Gary O’Neil’s adjusted game plan as Wolves, set up with a back five, could sit deep to form a low block for much of the encounter

The goal itself was superb, too, as Strand Larsen converted into the bottom left corner from an inch-perfect low Nelson Semedo cross, rounding off a ruthlessly clinical counter-attack from Gary O’Neil’s men. Semedo then had a glorious chance of his own about 10 minutes later and had he scored, the match could’ve turned out very differently.

What Wolves’ opener did mean was City became riled up very quickly and they made it their mission to net an equaliser as soon as possible. Chances were actually rather infrequent as Wolves did well for the most part to clear away the danger, but a goal felt to be on the way with the vast majority of action inside the hosts’ defensive third.

The visitors’ eventually found their breakthrough in the 33rd minute as Gvardiol curled into the top right corner from 25 yards. Wolves stood still inside the area and nobody rushed out to Gvardiol, affording the defender time and space to pick his spot. Jose Sa got a touch but it wasn’t enough as the ball nestled into the stanchion for 1-1.

City, lifted by their goal and Wolves’ dwindling energy, pushed on to try and source a lead of their own. Savinho forced Sa into a terrific diving stop just before the break before Ruben Dias had a similar attempt saved by the Wolves ‘keeper after the interval.

Wolves looked in need of fresh legs and O’Neil responded, bringing on several reinforcements. It worked for a long while as the hosts gained a second wind and City’s chances dried up for a long stretch.

The tension really ramped up into stoppage time, however, as Jack Grealish saw a deflected effort saved and there were several pinball moments inside the box. There was then the latest of drama as Wolves conceded a corner despite what appeared to be a clear foul down the other end. That moment proved decisive as Stones’ winning goal came from the resultant set piece, taken by Phil Foden.

There was a glimmer of hope for Wolves as referee Chris Kavanagh was advised to take a look at a possible offside interference of play from Bernardo, who barged into Sa. Kavanagh took a look at several replays on the VAR pitchside monitor but decided to stick with his original decision.

Molineux was a pit of frustration in the aftermath, but the home fans stuck around to cheer the players for their efforts. It’s so close yet so far for Wolves, yet again, as O’Neil’s side remain at the foot of the standings. Here’s how BirminghamWorld reporter Charlie Haffenden rated the players.

Wolves ratings vs Man City

Jose Sa - 8

Made four terrific diving saves to deny Bernardo, Savinho, Dias and Grealish. Looked confident to make claims when necessary. Couldn’t do much else for Gvardiol’s goal as he got a fingertip on it. Barged into for Stones’ winner, too.

Nelson Semedo - 8

Looked the most threatening attacking player despite being named as a wing-back. Assisted Strand Larsen’s early tap-in with an outstanding low delivery to the far post. Unfortunate not to score a goal of his own when he dribbled excellently into the channel but was denied by Ederson at close range. Kept Doku at bay in the first half and then Savinho in the second.

Craig Dawson - 7

Did well to man-mark Haaland, something that’s far easier said than done. Had a few shaky moments when passing out from the back, though, giving away possession cheaply. Beaten in the air for Stones’ header.

Santiago Bueno - 7.5

Played a key role in Strand Larsen’s goal as he took his time to pick out the right pass to Semedo down the right flank. Contributed plenty of clearances as City peppered the box with crosses.

Toti Gomes - 6.5

Made one heroic clearance away from the goalmouth after a drilled Doku cross and wasn’t fazed in the air. Booked for a tactical foul on Savinho after giving the ball away cheaply on the edge of the box, however, and that moment was nearly costly.

Rayan Ait-Nouri - 6

Defended fairly well with several well-timed tackles but really struggled in possession. The Algerian looked devoid of confidence when trying to control the ball and rarely picked out the right pass.

Andre - 6.5 (off at HT)

Worked hard to interrupt City’s flow as the deepest-lying of the midfield three. Replaced at the break for an unknown reason.

Mario Lemina - 6.5

Often dropped deep to help out with clearances and interceptions. Gave away several sloppy fouls and got into a few mix-ups with his midfield counterparts, however.

Joao Gomes - 7.5 (off 90’)

Battled so hard out throughout, throwing himself into every possible challenge without any fear. Made the occasional foul as a result but he will have been instructed to break up City’s momentum.

Matheus Cunha - 7.5 (off 67’)

Dribbled forward whenever possible and picked out the stellar through ball for Semedo’s big chance. Also went close with a pop shot from range in the second period.

Jorgen Strand Larsen - 8 (off 79’)

Bagged the opening goal, his third in the Premier League, with a composed finish. Perhaps should’ve done better to defend Gvardiol’s equaliser as he didn’t pressure the defender despite standing nearby, but otherwise played a crucial role with his defensive duties. He had nothing left when he came off.

Tommy Doyle - 6.5 (on at HT)

Introduced at the break, perhaps to give Wolves more of an out ball. Continued Andre’s fine defensive work but didn’t make much of an impact in possession.

Carlos Forbs - 6.5 (on 67’)

Nearly made an instant impact as he broke free down the left but his shot-turned-cross was scuffed. Helped Wolves break up City’s momentum with the odd dribble forward.