Wolves concluded the year on a high, securing an outstanding Premier League triumph over a lackluster Everton side. Additionally, the team paid tribute to Mario Lemina following the unfortunate passing of the midfielder’s father on Friday.
Under the management of Gary O’Neil, the hosts have left an impact, currently occupying the 11th position and trailing a European place by just three points since he assumed control in the summer.
Wolves took the initiative early in the game and rightfully secured the lead in the 25th minute. Captain Max Kilman bundled in from close range after Jordan Pickford initially made a sharp save from Jarrad Branthwaite’s misplaced clearance.
This proved to be the sole on-target effort in the first half, and in celebration, the team held up Lemina’s shirt.
“He is a big part of everything we do,” said O’Neil. “There’s no way we would be anywhere near 28 points without him.
“I know we’re enjoying this moment and it’s hard when you mention him because I know he’s suffering, but hopefully he gets a small lift.
“I spoke to him and he understands he has as long as he needs to get back to the moment and he has our full support.”
Kilman said: “That game was for [Mario Lemina]. He has been brilliant and it’s really tough what he’s going through. He deserved it.”
On the 53rd minute, the home team extended their lead as Hwang Hee-chan set up an uncomplicated finish for Matheus Cunha at the far post. Cunha then assumed the role of provider, delivering a low cross that Craig Dawson poked home.
Despite their efforts, Everton, facing a challenging period, couldn’t force goalkeeper Jose Sa into making a save. With three consecutive defeats, they find themselves just one point above the relegation zone.
O’Neil adds bite to Wolves
Wolves underwent a summer of cost-cutting measures resulting in the departure of key players such as captain Ruben Neves, Raul Jimenez, Matheus Nunez, and Nathan Collins. With such significant changes, expectations for a challenging season were not unwarranted.
However, under the guidance of former Bournemouth boss O’Neil, the team has excelled, achieving three consecutive Premier League victories—a feat not accomplished since January 2022.
O’Neil said: “An incredible week really. Nine points in six days with players missing – an incredible effort from everyone. The work that goes in behind the scenes has helped the team.
“It was probably my favourite performance of the season. The togetherness is huge.”
Wolves dominated much of the contest against Everton and continue to establish Molineux as a formidable stronghold. Their unbeaten streak at home now spans eight matches, with goals scored in their last 17 encounters there.
An early warning sign for Everton’s defenders came with Cunha’s shot from outside the box, narrowly missing the target. Defender Kilman then propelled his team into the lead just before the break.
During the game, Lemina’s name echoed through the chants, and in the fifth minute, applause in memory of his father set a poignant tone. The celebrations following the opening goal were heartfelt, with Kilman leading the tribute by raising Lemina’s number five shirt.
Wolves dominated Everton in the second half, with goals from Cunha and Dawson. The outcome could have been more lopsided for a despondent Sean Dyche and his team.
In the second half, in-form Hwang hit the post and forced a remarkable save from Pickford. Joao Gomes’ drive went straight at the England number one, and both Hwang and Pedro Neto had goals disallowed for offside.
Wolves now turn their attention to the FA Cup third-round clash against Brentford on Friday (19:15 GMT) before resuming Premier League action on Monday, 22 January, with an away fixture against Brighton (19:45).
Miserable loss for teetering Everton
Despite Everton’s initial resilience, their 10-point deduction became a significant concern after a promising streak of four consecutive wins turned into back-to-back defeats, leaving them precariously positioned just above the relegation zone.
Their performance in the Midlands fell well below their usual standard, offering goalkeeper Sa a relatively easy game, as they failed to register a shot on target.
Adding to their woes, injury troubles are escalating, with key players Abdoulaye Doucoure and Idrissa Gueye already sidelined. Midfielder Amadou Onana battled through most of the game while nursing an injury, and defender Branthwaite also appeared to be dealing with physical issues.
Manager Dyche’s decision to start Michael Keane and deploy three center-halves proved counterproductive, as Everton found themselves outmatched and outplayed in crucial areas.
Captain Seamus Coleman made a second-half appearance, marking his club record-equalling 354th Premier League outing. However, this milestone provides little solace to supporters as Everton concludes a tumultuous year with a disheartening defeat.
Dyche said: “We have just come off the back of a run of [lots of] games with injuries. We’ve come a long way since the second game of the season but we lacked that bit of fizz and energy to take the game on.
“We fell short with the physicality of the game. They played really well and exposed moments when we looked jaded.”
Everton will journey to Crystal Palace for the FA Cup third round on Thursday, January 4th (20:00 GMT) and then resume Premier League action on Sunday, January 14th (14:00), as they host Aston Villa.