Gary O’Neil addresses Wolves future after crucial Southampton victory

Wolves secured their first win of the Premier League season as Gary O’Neil’s side emerged 2-0 victors over Southampton.

Wolves manager Gary O’Neil heaped praise on his squad as they seized their first Premier League triumph of the season with a 2-0 win over Southampton at Molineux.

Beginning the game in a confident manner, Wolves saw Matheus Cunha assist Pablo Sarabia, who skillfully avoided Aaron Ramsdale and slotted the ball home, establishing the lead within the initial two minutes.

The visiting side thought they’d equalized through Ryan Manning’s powerful shot into the top corner, but referee Thomas Bramall, following a VAR review, nullified the goal due to Mateus Fernandes’ foul on Nelson Semedo.

Wolves confirmed their significant win when Cunha unleashed a brilliant strike that flew past Ramsdale, lifting the team just above Southampton into the 18th position in the standings.

“The players merit it. They’ve put in a tremendous amount of work,” O’Neil said. “Second half I thought we were outstanding – didn’t feel under any substantial threat once we adapted to the formation and a tense first half as anticipated under the circumstances.”

Amidst speculation over his own tenure, O’Neil sought to divert the focus: “I wanted them (fans) to enjoy it because they’ve waited a considerable time for it. The win was not about me today, a lot was made about me and my future, I’m confident in my position and the outlook my coaching career holds.

“Today was about Wolves, I didn’t want to make it about me either, which is why I was eager to let the players go around the supporters and relish it. I’m delighted for the fans and players, now we need to pull ourselves together and go four games unbeaten.”

Sarabia received a warm reception from the fans when he was substituted in last week’s draw with Crystal Palace, and manager O’Neil’s choice to persist with the Spaniard paid off as he netted his first goal of the season. O’Neil voiced his contentment, saying: “Part of my team selection included individuals who I thought could endure the pressure of what today was going to bring. I knew Pablo would be able to manage that. He’s a self-assured guy. It was a superb goal, he had some big chances in that same situation against Crystal Palace – He executed his goal very well today, pleased with that.”