Championship Season 2008-9    preseason     Aug 2008Sept 2008 Oct 2008  Nov 2008 Dec 2008  Jan 2009 Feb 2009 Mar 2009 Apr 2009 May

Next Match - off to St Andrews for the Blues Monday April 6th

Saturday 21st March - Nottingham Forest 0 Wolves 1 (Kights 74)

Nottingham Forest 0  Wolves 1(Kightly 76)
 

Forest played in a typical Billy Davies defensive manner, almost like the away team, which always makes it difficult for the real away team, although the 5000+ Wolves fans made it a better atmosphere than the Moli.  A well worked team goal with front line strikers Sylvan and Sammy setting up Kights to end his drought.   A piece of icing on the cake would have been Andy's 50 yard shot if it had gone in - potential goal of the season and shut up the doubters.  Meanwhile, former youth favourite Sammy Clingan scored from a great free kick to peg back the Blues and Reading trudged through a 0-0 at the Palace in spite of Kitson’s return

Meanwhile the Express & Star reported that we're close to signing Villa's out-of-favour Marlon Harewood.

wow reported

In a game of few chances Michael Kightly struck in front of over 5,000 delirious travelling supporters as Wolves strengthened their grip on top spot in the Championship.  It was Kightly's first goal since November as his defensive colleagues kept another clean sheet - the fourth in five games.  There was just the one change to Mick McCarthy's starting line-up with Karl Henry   returning in place of Dave Edwards who was named as a substitute.  Wolves kicked-off defending the Bridgford End of The City Ground which was packed with gold and black clad spectators.  The visitors started brightly but there was a half chance for Robert Earnshaw who was denied a shooting opportunity by Christophe Berra who shepherded the ball back to Wayne Hennessey. Iain Turner, making his debut for Forest on loan from Everton, plucked the ball off Berra's head following a Kightly corner and then Stephen Ward   fired over from 25-yards. A clever flick by Sylvan Ebanks-Blake released Kightly but a defender ran across to clear as the midfielder ran into the area.  Chris Iwelumo headed clear Chris Cohen's deep free-kick into the Wolves box, and then Kightly and Iwelumo combined to set up a chance for Ebanks-Blake who wasn't far away with a shot with the outside of his left-foot from the 18-yard line.  Chris Gunter went into the book after a blatant body check on Matt Hill but Turner comfortably gathered Kightly's free-kick. He cleared the ball upfield to Paul Anderson who was flagged offside and then yellow carded for booting the ball away after the whistle.  Jody Craddock did well to dispossess Cohen who would otherwise have been through, and then Hennessey threw himself sideways to cut out a driven cross from Anderson.  Craddock headed clear Gary McSheffrey's 45  th   minute corner, Forest's first of the half, and in stoppage time Turner fumbled as he dived to keep out a 30-yard effort from Ebanks-Blake. But the keeper recovered to gather the ball before Kightly could prosper. 
 
   Half-Time: Forest 0 Wolves 0 
 

Within 30 seconds of the resumption Berra fouled Cohen near the right hand corner of the Wolves area. After the Scottish defender had been booked, Lewis McGugan drove the free-kick into the defensive wall and when he picked up the rebound and had a second attempt, his low shot bounced clear off team-mate Earnshaw.  Ebanks-Blake almost wriggled through two challenges on the by-line to the right of Turner's goal. The ball went out for a corner which was taken by Jones and his inswinging kick was punched clear by Turner from virtually under the bar.  A dangerous cross from McGugan went right through Hennessey's six-yard box just in front of McSheffrey who was lurking at the far post. With 54 minutes gone Wolves made a change with Andy_Keogh coming on to replace Ward on the left flank.  McSheffrey shot over from 20-yards before both sides made double switches in a six minute spell. Forest sent on Nathan Tyson and Garath McCleary for McSheffrey and Anderson and for Wolves Edwards and Sam Vokes were sent on for Dave Jones and Iwelumo.  And Vokes played an important role when the breakthrough arrived in the 76th   minute. Ebanks-Blake fed the ball to the Welsh international who held it up for Kightly to run in and drill a low shot into the corner of the net.  After Joel Lynch had been booked for a scything challenge on Kightly, he prevented a second Wolves goal by clearing Ebanks-Blake's shot off the line. The leading scorer looked like adding to his tally when he swooped on the loose ball after a Keogh drive had been blocked but Lynch managed to hack clear.  In the 87th minute Keogh was a whisker away from a second with what would have been a tremendous goal. From just inside the Forest half he spotted Turner off his line and hit a shot that drifted a couple of feet wide of the post. 
 
 Forest: Turner, Wilson, Lynch, Morgan, Perch (capt), McGugan (Garner 78), Earnshaw, Anderson (McCleary 67), Cohen, Gunter, McSheffrey (Tyson 67).  Unused subs: Smith, Chambers.  Bookings: Gunter (29 - foul), Anderson (30 - kicking ball away after whistle had gone), Lynch (82 - foul).
 
 Wolves: Hennessey, Foley, Hill, Jones (Edwards 73), Craddock (capt), Berra, Kightly, Henry, Ebanks-Blake, Iwelumo (Vokes 73), S. Ward (Keogh 54).  Unused subs: Stearman, Higgs.  Bookings: Berra (46 - foul), Kightly (76 - goal celebration).

 Referee: P.T. Crossley.   Attendance: 24,510 (5,325 away supporters)
stats

                        Nottingham Forest  Wolverhampton Wanderers

Goals:                             0                  1

Possession:                 50                 50

Shots On Target:           2                   3

Shots Off Target:          2                   4

Corners:                        3                    2

Fouls:                          10                  14

Most Fouls:   Morgan (3)       Henry (6)

Yellow Cards:              3                    2

Red Cards:                   0                    0

Scorers:                                           Kightly (75)
as it happened

0: Five minutes to kick off and the 5,000-plus Wolves fans are already packed into the end behind the goal and part of the side as well.  In full voice already.

0: Teams walk out. Craddock retains the captaincy despite the return of Henry, who had deputised for the club skipper for much of the season. 
 

0: Off and running.
2: Early half chance for Wolves as Iwelumo causes havoc from a free kick thrown into the area. Almost opens up for Kightly but he is crowded out.
4: Forest respond with Earnshaw looking to get on the end of a flick-on. Berra does well to shepherd the ball back to Hennessey.
8: Mistake by Forest defender Morgan as he tries to control lets in Ebanks-Blake just outside the area. Striker feeds Kightly who tries to go past the full back and wins a corner. Flag kick comes in and is well claimed by Turner.
10: Ward is fed by Jones in midfield and advances before firing over the bar from distance.
13: Coming together off the ball between Kightly and Earnshaw earns the pair a lecture from referee Crossley. All ends with a handshake.
18: Good chance for Wolves thanks to lovely ball from Ebanks-Blake to Kightly. The winger turns outside and then back inside but the defender has time to make the challenge.
22: Cohen sends in a dangerous free kick which Iwelumo heads clear at the far post. 
26: Another bright Wolves move sees Kightly play the ball in, Iwelumo produce a lay-off and Ebanks-Blake fire narrowly over with the outside of his right foot.
29: First booking of the game for Forest's Gunter. The on-loan defender brings down Hill who had latched neatly onto a Jones pass down the inside right channel. Kightly swings in the free kick but again Turner gathers comfortably. 
30: Second booking for Forest as Anderson, having been flagged offside, shows his frustration by kicking the ball towards goal in any case. 
32: Forest sniff a couple of openings but a clearance from Craddock and then a header from Berra repel the danger.
38: Jones and then Henry both lose out in midfield allowing Forest to break.  Anderson goes past Foley and sends in a driven cross which Hennessey does well to gather cleanly.
42: Attendance today is 24510. The Wolves contingent amongst them is 5,325.
45: Two minutes added time to come. McSheffrey sends over a dangerous corner but it's Craddock who heads clear.
45+2: Ebanks-Blake takes aim from distance with a powerful drive and Turner gathers at the second attempt.

HALF TIME: FOREST 0-0 WOLVES

46: Back up and running.
46: Forest on the charge within seconds and Berra brings down Cohen on the edge of the area. Forest fans scream for a red card but Craddock was covering defender.  Just a yellow card for the Scot.
47: McGugan's free kick comes back off the wall and his second attempt seems to bounce back off Earnshaw. Forest immediately win another a corner - they've started the second half brightly.
48: McGugan's first corner headed out by Jones for a second which is claimed by Hennessey.
49: Wolves break and win a corner of their own. Jones' produces a superb inswinger which is parried out by Turner and then cleared.
52: McGugan fires over a superb driven centre which narrowly evades McSheffrey at the far post.
54: First change for Wolves as Keogh comes off the bench for Ward.  Keogh to operate on the left.
60: Game has quietened down somewhat but Forest looking more confident and it's their fans getting going. But that packed away end are quick to respond.
65: Forest launch an attack and the ball drops to McSheffrey just outside the area. The on-loan winger's half volley is over the bar.
66: Double change for the hosts with Tyson and McCleary on for Anderson and McSheffrey.
68: Ebanks-Blake tussles with Wilson inside the penalty area and goes down but no penalty. The pair have a few words after the incident and, as a result, so does referee Crossley.
73: Double change for Wolves to complete their substitutions with Edwards and Vokes on for Jones and Iwelumo.
76: GOAL: KIGHTLY: 0-1 Wolves make the breakthrough. Ebanks-Blake breaks down the right and his low centre finds Vokes. The substitute lays it perfectly into the path of Kightly who takes one touch before firing low into the bottom corner.  First Kightly goal since the win against  Burnley  in November. Celebrates with the Wolves fans who are in raptures and promptly receives a booking.
78: Final change for Forest now with Garner on for McGugan. 
80: Earnshaw is almost away but great challenge from Berra takes him out wide. This could be a nervy last ten minutes.
83: Wolves so close to a second. Keogh's shot is blocked and Ebanks-Blake's is half blocked but is heading towards goal until Lynch's intervention.
85: Wolves win a free kick 25 yards out but Kightly's effort is over.
87: Keogh spots Turner off his line and tries an audacious effort from just inside the Forest half. Turner scampers back and it's not too far wide.
90: Three minutes of injury time to follow.
90+2: Slight concern as Forest block two attempted clearances forcing Hennessey into a difficult clearance from a spinning ball. The Wolves keeper gets enough on it and clears the danger.
 FULL TIME: FOREST 0-1 WOLVES

Saturday 14th March - Bottom club Charlton at home -who’d just drawn at the Madjeski

Wolves 2 (Iwelumo 36, Holland-OG 79) Charlton Athletic 1 (Zhi 51)

A very tense Molineux again, with a touch of class from Chris Iwelumo and his old team mate and captain of China Zheng Zhi.  Chris got his first for months by stretching his leg around the defender to get to Dave Edwards flick from Kights' pass (half an assist?).  Sylvan missed his second pen (awarded after Christophe Berra had been pulled back) but was on the spot to force the ball on to Matt Holland from Chris' flick on of a Kights corner (won by Andy Keogh who looked lively as a sub).   Dave Jones looked back to his growling best, but Kevin went a bit missing for their equaliser to mar an "as usual" impressive match.  Wardy was a bit more constrained.  Kights had a few good runs but was again missing for long periods and like Kyel Reid kept getting drawn into the centre.  The Athletic manager Phil Parkinson had a bit of a spat with Mick, not helped by the Iwelumo goal - he didn't want him to be sold to us.  The 66% possession stat though certainly didn't seem to give us that degree of dominance and it was a real struggle.  Again the service to SEB was a bit limited, but there were some really good crosses and corners for  a change.  Birmingham won in the evening, but the Tractor Boys were at it again and took all three points from the Royals leaving them 10 points behind with two games in hand.  Cardiff's run has also hit some rough water.  Another draw on Sunday has them 14 behind with 3 in hand.  Everyone's saying 84 points will be enough.... hmmm!

WoW reported:

Wolves moved another step closer to promotion but they didn't have it all their own way against bottom of the table Charlton Athletic and they needed a Matt Holland own goal to secure all three points.

After Chris Iwelumo had opened the scoring against his old club, the Londoners hit back with a Zheng Zhi leveller before Sylvan Ebanks-Blake missed from the spot. But Holland's moment of ill fortune meant that Wanderers have opened up a ten point gap between themselves and third placed Reading following the Berkshire team's home defeat against Ipswich.  Michael Kightly started in place of Kyel Reid who took a place on the bench. Otherwise Mick McCarthy's team was unchanged as they kicked-off attacking the South Bank end.  In the third minute Kightly fired in a great cross from the right that Holland just managed to deflect away from Ebanks-Blake and Iwelumo as they charged in.   Charlton threatened when Tom Soare's beat the offside trap on the right wing. He was in oceans of space and after taking the ball to the by-line he hit a low cross that travelled dangerously through the six-yard box. The ball was cleared upfield to Stephen Ward who won the game's first corner which was taken by Kightly and headed clear from the heart of a congested area by a defender.  Christophe Berra was penalised for a challenge on Soares on the edge of the 'D' but Nicky Bailey's free-kick bounced clear off the defensive wall.  On 25 minutes a Bailey shot was deflected to Zhi who rolled the ball into the net but the flag had already been raised for offside.  Matt Hudson headed a Dave Jones corner against his own post but the referee had spotted an infringement, and then Kevin Foley was somewhat harshly pulled up for a tackle on Bailey on the left-hand corner of the home area. Matt Spring's free-kick curled straight into the arms of Wayne Hennessey. Charlton were getting men back behind the ball at every opportunity and chances were at a premium but Wolves made the breakthrough in the 36th minute.  Kightly, who heads the 'assist charts' in the Championship, added to his tally when he chipped the ball into the box. Dave Edward's couldn't reach it but Iwelumo did, firing into the top corner despite keeper Rob Elliot getting a touch. Iwelumo almost had a second just a minute later but Elliot narrowly beat him to Kightly's through pass.  Kightly's challenge on Kelly Youga earned the winger a booking with the referee indicating persistent fouling as the offence.

Half-Time: Wolves 1 Charlton 0

Karl Henry was an interval replacement for Ward.  Zhi stunned Molineux when he fired Charlton level with a shot from 20-yards with 51 minutes gone. He took a pass from Holland and checked inside two defenders before scoring with an effort that appeared to take a deflection.  In Charlton's next attack they were close to taking the lead with Soares heading wide following a cross from Zhi.  Mick McCarthy made a second change when he switched Andy Keogh for Edwards.  A corner from Jones was half cleared to Kightly whose first time volley was taken by Elliot and then, after a shove by Danny Butterfield on Kightly, Iwelumo got a head to Kightly's free-kick but Youga cleared at the expense of a corner. In the 69th minute Wolves were awarded a penalty when Berra fell under a double challenge from Holland and Youga with the referee indicating a shove. After a mass protest from the Charlton players Elliot dived to his left to save Ebanks-Blake's spot-kick. Kightly had a chance when he took a cross from Matt Hill but his shot lacked the power to trouble Elliot. But what turned out to be the winning goal arrived in the 79th minute.  From Jones's corner Iwelumo headed on at the near post and the ball hit Holland and looped off his body and over the line.

Wolves: Hennessey, Foley, M. Hill, Jones, Craddock (capt), Berra, Kightly, Edwards (Keogh 63), Ebanks-Blake (Vokes 87), Iwelumo, S. Ward (Henry 45).  Unused subs: Higgs, Reid. Booking: Kightly (39 - persistent fouling).

Charlton: Elliot, Youga, Bailey, Zhi (Shelvey 88), Hudson (capt), Holland, Spring (Dickson 81), Racon, Butterfield, Kandol, Soares (Ambrose 73).Unused subs: Randolph, Basey.

Referee: G. Laws.  Attendance: 24,319.
                                             WW   Charlton Athletic

Goals:                                   2              1

Possession:                        66             34

Shots On Target:                  4              3

Shots Off Target:                 2              2

Corners:                              9              1

Fouls:                                17           16

Most Fouls:            Kightly (3)     Kandol (6)

Yellow Cards:                  1                 0

Red Cards:                      0                 0

Scorers: Iwelumo (35)
Ebanks-Blake (78)
                                                         Zhi (50)
 

90:00 (+ 3:52) Foul by Jonjo Shelvey(Charlton) on Karl Henry(Wolverhampton). Direct free kick taken left-footed by Matthew Hill(Wolverhampton) from own half, resulting in open play. 90:00 (+ 1:58) Cross by Jonjo Shelvey(Charlton), clearance by Jody Craddock(Wolverhampton). 90:00 (+ 1:24) Inswinging corner from left by-line taken right-footed by Jonjo Shelvey(Charlton) to near post, save (fumbled) by Wayne Hennessey(Wolverhampton). 88:57 Inswinging corner from right by-line taken left-footed by David Jones(Wolverhampton) to far post, clearance by Kelly Youga(Charlton). Inswinging corner from left by-line taken right-footed by Michael Kightly(Wolverhampton) to centre, save (punched) by Robert Elliot(Charlton). Attacking throw-in by Kevin Foley(Wolverhampton). 87:21 Charlton substitution: Zheng Zhi replaced by Jonjo Shelvey (tactical). Attacking throw-in by Jody Craddock(Wolverhampton). 86:23Chris Dickson(Charlton) caught offside. Wolverhampton substitution: Sylvan Ebanks-Blake replaced by Sam Vokes (tactical). Direct free kick taken right-footed by Jody Craddock(Wolverhampton) from own half, resulting in open play. 82:42 Foul by Danny Butterfield(Charlton) on Chris Iwelumo(Wolverhampton). Free kick crossed right-footed by Michael Kightly(Wolverhampton) from left wing, resulting in open play. 80:31 Foul by Chris Iwelumo(Wolverhampton) on Therry Racon(Charlton). Direct free kick taken left-footed by Robert Elliot(Charlton) from own half, resulting in open play. 79:55 Charlton substitution: Matthew Spring replaced by Chris Dickson (tactical). 79:14 Tresor Kandol(Charlton) caught offside. Direct free kick taken right-footed by Wayne Hennessey(Wolverhampton) from own half, resulting in open play. 78:39 Headed goal by Sylvan Ebanks-Blake(Wolverhampton) (bottom-left of goal) from left side of six-yard box (6 yards).Wolverhampton 2-1 Charlton. Assist by Chris Iwelumo(Wolverhampton) from left side of six-yard box. 77:32Attacking throw-in by Matthew Hill(Wolverhampton).Outswinging corner from left by-line taken left-footed by David Jones(Wolverhampton) to centre, resulting in open play. 75:07 Tresor Kandol(Charlton) caught offside. Direct free kick taken right-footed by Wayne Hennessey(Wolverhampton) from own half, resulting in open play. 72:47 Foul by Tresor Kandol(Charlton) on Christophe Berra(Wolverhampton). Direct free kick taken right-footed by Wayne Hennessey(Wolverhampton) from own half, resulting in open play. 72:18 Charlton substitution: Tom Soares replaced by Darren Ambrose (tactical). 70:52 Foul by Danny Butterfield(Charlton) on Michael Kightly(Wolverhampton). Free kick crossed right-footed by Michael Kightly(Wolverhampton) from left wing, clearance by Kelly Youga(Charlton). Inswinging corner from right by-line taken left-footed by David Jones(Wolverhampton) to far post, header by Sylvan Ebanks-Blake(Wolverhampton) from centre of penalty area (6 yards), resulting in open play. Handball by Mark Hudson(Charlton). Placed penalty taken right-footed by Sylvan Ebanks-Blake(Wolverhampton) (bottom-right of goal), save (parried) by Robert Elliot(Charlton).Wolverhampton 1-1 Charlton. Inswinging corner from left by-line taken right-footed by Michael Kightly(Wolverhampton) to centre, resulting in open play. Shot by Karl Henry(Wolverhampton) drilled right-footed from left channel (25 yards), missed right. Foul by Danny Butterfield(Charlton) on Andrew Keogh(Wolverhampton). Direct free kick taken right-footed by Christophe Berra(Wolverhampton) from left channel, passed. 66:31 Foul by Kelly Youga(Charlton) on Michael Kightly(Wolverhampton). Free kick taken left-footed by David Jones(Wolverhampton) from right channel (30 yards), hit wall. Inswinging corner from right by-line taken left-footed by David Jones(Wolverhampton) to near post, clearance by Matthew Spring(Charlton). Shot by Michael Kightly(Wolverhampton) volleyed left-footed from left channel (25 yards), comfortable save (caught) by Robert Elliot(Charlton). 63:44 Foul by Tom Soares(Charlton) on Matthew Hill(Wolverhampton). Free kick crossed right-footed by Michael Kightly(Wolverhampton) from left wing, save (caught) by Robert Elliot(Charlton). 62:18 Tresor Kandol(Charlton) caught offside. Wolverhampton substitution: David Edwards replaced by Andrew Keogh (tactical). Indirect free kick taken right-footed by Wayne Hennessey(Wolverhampton) from own half, resulting in open play. 55:48 Foul by Sylvan Ebanks-Blake(Wolverhampton) on Mark Hudson(Charlton). Direct free kick taken left-footed by Robert Elliot(Charlton) from own half, resulting in open play. 53:52 Cross by Zheng Zhi(Charlton), header by Tresor Kandol(Charlton) from centre of penalty area (20 yards), missed right. 52:49 Foul by Tresor Kandol(Charlton) on Christophe Berra(Wolverhampton). Direct free kick taken right-footed by Jody Craddock(Wolverhampton) from own half, resulting in open play. 52:20 Goal by Zheng Zhi(Charlton) drilled right-footed (top-right of goal) from left channel (30 yards).Wolverhampton 1-1 Charlton. Assist (pass) by Nick Bailey(Charlton) from left wing. 51:57Foul by Tresor Kandol(Charlton) on Jody Craddock(Wolverhampton). Direct free kick taken right-footed by Wayne Hennessey(Wolverhampton) from own half, resulting in open play. 50:50 Goal by Zheng Zhi(Charlton) drilled right-footed (top-right of goal) from left channel (30 yards).Wolverhampton 1-1 Charlton. 48:26 Foul by Chris Iwelumo(Wolverhampton) on Matthew Holland(Charlton). Direct free kick taken left-footed by Robert Elliot(Charlton) from own half, resulting in open play. 47:57 Tom Soares(Charlton) caught offside. Indirect free kick taken right-footed by Wayne Hennessey(Wolverhampton) from own half, resulting in open play. 47:40 Handball by Kevin Foley(Wolverhampton). Direct free kick taken left-footed by Robert Elliot(Charlton) from own half, resulting in open play. 46:27 Zheng Zhi(Charlton) caught offside. Direct free kick taken right-footed by Wayne Hennessey(Wolverhampton) from own half, resulting in open play. 45:51 Foul by Matthew Hill(Wolverhampton) on Danny Butterfield(Charlton). Direct free kick taken right-footed by Danny Butterfield(Charlton) from own half, resulting in open play. 45:01 Wolverhampton substitution: Stephen Ward replaced by Karl Henry (tactical). 45:00 (+ 0:48) Foul by Zheng Zhi(Charlton) on Matthew Hill(Wolverhampton). Direct free kick taken right-footed by Wayne Hennessey(Wolverhampton) from own half, resulting in open play. 44:25 Foul by Tom Soares(Charlton) on Stephen Ward(Wolverhampton). Direct free kick taken right-footed by Wayne Hennessey(Wolverhampton) from own half, resulting in open play. 43:32 Inswinging corner from right by-line taken left-footed by David Jones(Wolverhampton) to centre, save (caught) by Robert Elliot(Charlton). 41:45 Sylvan Ebanks-Blake(Wolverhampton) caught offside. Indirect free kick taken left-footed by Robert Elliot(Charlton) from own half, resulting in open play. 38:44 Foul by Michael Kightly(Wolverhampton) on Kelly Youga(Charlton). Michael Kightly(Wolverhampton) booked for unsporting behaviour. Direct free kick taken right-footed by Matthew Holland(Charlton) from left wing, resulting in open play. 38:01 Cross by Michael Kightly(Wolverhampton), comfortable save (caught) by Robert Elliot(Charlton). 36:10 Goal by Chris Iwelumo(Wolverhampton) volleyed right-footed (top-right of goal) from right side of penalty area (12 yards).Wolverhampton 1-0 Charlton. Assist (pass) by Michael Kightly(Wolverhampton) from right wing. 33:25Foul by Tresor Kandol(Charlton) on Christophe Berra(Wolverhampton). Direct free kick taken right-footed by Wayne Hennessey(Wolverhampton) from own half, resulting in open play. 33:03 Handball by Michael Kightly(Wolverhampton). Direct free kick taken left-footed by Robert Elliot(Charlton) from own half, resulting in open play. 31:03 Foul by David Edwards(Wolverhampton) on Mark Hudson(Charlton). Direct free kick taken left-footed by Robert Elliot(Charlton) from own half, resulting in open play. 30:37 Foul by Kevin Foley(Wolverhampton) on Matthew Spring(Charlton). Free kick taken right-footed by Matthew Spring(Charlton) curled from left channel (25 yards), comfortable save (caught) by Wayne Hennessey(Wolverhampton). 29:26 Foul by Christophe Berra(Wolverhampton) on Tom Soares(Charlton). Free kick crossed right-footed by Matthew Spring(Charlton) from right channel, clearance by Chris Iwelumo(Wolverhampton). 28:07 Inswinging corner from right by-line taken left-footed by David Jones(Wolverhampton) to centre, foul by Sylvan Ebanks-Blake(Wolverhampton) on Matthew Holland(Charlton). Direct free kick taken right-footed by Danny Butterfield(Charlton) from own half, resulting in open play. 27:01 Foul by Tresor Kandol(Charlton) on Matthew Hill(Wolverhampton). Direct free kick taken right-footed by Wayne Hennessey(Wolverhampton) from own half, resulting in open play. 26:45 Foul by Kelly Youga(Charlton) on Chris Iwelumo(Wolverhampton). Free kick crossed left-footed by David Jones(Wolverhampton) from right channel, save (caught) by Robert Elliot(Charlton). 25:47 Foul by Kelly Youga(Charlton) on Chris Iwelumo(Wolverhampton). Free kick crossed left-footed by David Jones(Wolverhampton) from right channel, resulting in open play. 25:05 Zheng Zhi(Charlton) caught offside. Indirect free kick taken right-footed by Wayne Hennessey(Wolverhampton) from own half, resulting in open play. 23:46 Chris Iwelumo(Wolverhampton) caught offside. Indirect free kick taken right-footed by Danny Butterfield(Charlton) from own half, resulting in open play. 21:19 Tresor Kandol(Charlton) caught offside. Indirect free kick taken right-footed by Wayne Hennessey(Wolverhampton) from own half, resulting in open play. 20:08 Mark Hudson(Charlton) caught offside. Indirect free kick taken right-footed by Wayne Hennessey(Wolverhampton) from own half, resulting in open play. 19:32 Foul by Jody Craddock(Wolverhampton) on Zheng Zhi(Charlton). Direct free kick taken right-footed by Danny Butterfield(Charlton) from right channel, resulting in open play. 17:43 Foul by Christophe Berra(Wolverhampton) on Tom Soares(Charlton). Free kick drilled right-footed by Nick Bailey(Charlton) from left wing (30 yards), hit wall. Foul by Tresor Kandol(Charlton) on Christophe Berra(Wolverhampton). Direct free kick taken right-footed by Wayne Hennessey(Wolverhampton) from own half, resulting in open play. 15:51 Foul by Chris Iwelumo(Wolverhampton) on Mark Hudson(Charlton). Direct free kick taken left-footed by Robert Elliot(Charlton) from own half, resulting in open play. 15:13 Foul by Tom Soares(Charlton) on Matthew Hill(Wolverhampton). Direct free kick taken right-footed by Wayne Hennessey(Wolverhampton) from own half, resulting in open play. 13:46 Shot by Zheng Zhi(Charlton) right-footed from right channel (25 yards), over the bar. Goal kick taken long by Wayne Hennessey(Wolverhampton). 13:22 Foul by David Jones(Wolverhampton) on Therry Racon(Charlton). Direct free kick taken right-footed by Therry Racon(Charlton) from left channel, passed. 12:40 Handball by Tresor Kandol(Charlton). Direct free kick taken right-footed by Christophe Berra(Wolverhampton) from own half, passed. 10:20 Foul by Stephen Ward(Wolverhampton) on Tom Soares(Charlton). Direct free kick taken right-footed by Danny Butterfield(Charlton) from own half, resulting in open play. 9:03 Foul by Michael Kightly(Wolverhampton) on Kelly Youga(Charlton). Direct free kick taken right-footed by Matthew Holland(Charlton) from own half, resulting in open play. 8:29 Zheng Zhi(Charlton) caught offside. Direct free kick taken right-footed by Wayne Hennessey(Wolverhampton) from own half, resulting in open play. 6:43 Inswinging corner from left by-line taken right-footed by Michael Kightly(Wolverhampton) to near post, save (punched) by Robert Elliot(Charlton). 3:58 Tresor Kandol(Charlton) caught offside. Indirect free kick taken right-footed by Jody Craddock(Wolverhampton) from own half, resulting in open play. 1:44 Foul by Michael Kightly(Wolverhampton) on Kelly Youga(Charlton). Direct free kick taken right-footed by Matthew Holland(Charlton) from own half, resulting in open play. 0:24 Foul by Jody Craddock(Wolverhampton) on Tresor Kandol(Charlton). Direct free kick taken right-footed by Danny Butterfield(Charlton) from left channel, resulting in open play.
 

Tractor Boys at home Tuesday 10th March Wolves 0 Ipswich 0

A bit of a let off in the end as the Tractor Boys fail to capitalise on an absolutley awful offside "trap" that failed in the 86th as Wayne stood tall giving Jody enough time to get back on the line and clear the ball... and Reading Brum both drew and Cardiff lost. But the stats showed Ipswich had more shots, and Lisbie certainly looked dangerous as the lone striker.   Sylvan's shot which hit the bar was a cracker even if Kights' follow up was poorly directed. Dave Edwards MoM but Berra's looking really strong now  if a bit lacking in pace.  Kyel Reid had a mixed bag - not able to stand up to more thuggish behaviour from Thatcher - but an absolute cracker of a free kick at the end of the 1st half which hit the stanchion.  Ref Salisbury was extremely tolerant of Thatcher's and Campo's fouling but eventually booked them which gave us more action.  Starting Chris Iwelumo and Sylvan again seemed to give us the best chances.  Kights' injury at Hillsborough meant he only played the second half, but he showed much more of what he can do than he has recently, and Ipswich were under the cosh for some long periods,

as Wolves World saw it....
Wolves had to be satisfied with a point from their home clash with an Ipswich Town side that packed men behind the ball but looked dangerous on the break.  But with Reading and Birmingham also both drawing, no ground was lost in the race to the Championship finishing line.  Kyel Reid came in for Michael Kightly who took a place on the bench after he had tweaked his hamstring in the game at Sheffield Wednesday. The other change saw Stephen Ward returning on the left of midfield in place of George Friend.   Town kicked-off attacking the North Bank end and in the opening seconds Kevin Foley had to head clear a right-wing cross from Jon Walters.   Walters then supplied a cross from the left that Matt Hill had to nod behind for a corner that came to nothing.   Free-kicks from Reid and Foley were both too high and drifted harmlessly behind, and then a driven cross from Foley, who had combined with Reid, was cleared for corner which, again, was fruitless.  Ivan Campo booted the ball clear as Sylvan Ebanks-Blake was about to take a shot from the edge of the area and then, with the half approaching its midway point, Richard Wright made a fine save as he tipped over Dave Jones' 25-yard fee-kick after Tommy Miller had handled.  Reid beat Ben Thatcher in a chase to the by-line but the on loan winger overhit his cross and, when play swung towards the Wolves goal seconds later, Foley superbly dispossessed Luciano Civelli who was making inroads towards the home area.  Thatcher blatantly obstructed Reid and, after Walters had limped off to be replaced by Pablo Counago, Reid was inches away with the 30-yard free-kick that hit the support at the back of the goal and bounced into the side netting.   Wolves were piling on the pressure and Pim Balkestein sliced over his own crossbar as he cleared Ward's cross before Alan Quinn tripped Ebanks-Blake to the right of the Town area. Wright easily claimed Reid's free-kick.  Thatcher committed one foul too many on Reid and he was shown the yellow card. Jones curled the free-kick narrowly wide of the far post.  In stoppage time David Norris was shown the yellow card for a foul on Christophe Berra.
Half-Time: Wolves 0 Ipswich 0

Kightly came on at the start of the second-half in place of Reid.  Quinn felled Ebanks-Blake 30-yards from Wright's goal but the keeper safely gathered Jones' free-kick. Then Quinn went into the book for a foul on Dave Edwards.  Jones again took the free-kick and Wright collected Ward's overhead kick but the referee had already blown for a foul.  After Edwards had drilled an angled shot wide, Chris Iwelumo hobbled off to be replaced by Sam Vokes.   The Welsh striker was soon involved and, after dispossessing a defender, he fired in a cross that the visiting defence only cleared with difficulty.  The woodwork denied Ebanks-Blake in the 59 th  minute. He crossed the ball to the far side of the area and Kightly beat Thatcher before hitting a cross that was hooked clear by a defender from virtually on the goal-line.   The loose ball ran to Ebanks-Blake who took aim but was inches too high with his effort that smacked against the crossbar. The ball fell to Kightly who was narrowly wide of the far post with a low drive.  Berra, who had gone forward for a corner, was in position to take a Kightly pass when the ball was only half cleared by the Town defence. The defender raced into the box before hitting a shot that went straight to Wright. Jody Craddock was booked for a late challenge on Civelli and Foley headed an inswinging centre from Norris from just in front of the line.  Kightly's penalty appeal after he had gone down under a challenge from Campo was ignored by the referee and then the winger took three successive corners that yielded nothing.  Andy Keogh came on for Hill for the last ten minutes with Ward dropping back into defence.  The offside trap failed Wolves in the 84th  minute after a free-kick from David Wright. The home defence ran out as the kick was taken and then looked horrified as the linesman failed to raise his flag. Substitute Jon Stead beat Wayne Hennessey but Berra ran back to clear the Ipswich man's half hit shot.  In stoppage time Miller had a chance of winning it when he ran onto Civelli's cross, but he skied the ball over the bar. Inexplicably, the referee awarded a corner.  With time running out Ward's cross beat Wright's leap but there was no-one waiting behind the keeper to apply the finishing touch.

Wolves: Hennessey, Foley, M. Hill (Keogh 89), Jones, Craddock (capt), Berra, Reid (Kightly 45), Edwards, Ebanks-Blake, Iwelumo (Vokes 57), S. Ward.  Unused subs: Stearman, D. Ward. Booking: Craddock (65 - foul).

Ipswich: R. Wright, Campo, Thatcher, Norris, Walters (Counago 38), Lisbie (Stead 72), Miller (capt), Civelli, Quinn, Balkestein, D. Wright.  Unused subs: Garvan, Stead, Bruce.  Bookings: Thatcher (44 - foul), Norris (45 - foul), Quinn (55 - foul).

Referee: G. Salisbury.  Attendance: 22,227.
                   Wolverhampton Wanderers   Ipswich Town

Goals:                            0                                 0

Possession:                  49                               51

Shots On Target:           3                                 6

Shots Off Target:           4                                2

Corners:                        9                               6

Fouls:                          17                             15

Most Fouls:  Craddock (4)                 Thatcher (4)

Yellow Cards:               1                                  4

as it happened

90:00 (+ 2:36) Cross by Sylvan Ebanks-Blake (Wolverhampton), fantastic save (caught) by Richard Wright (Ipswich). 90:00 (+ 1:48) Cross by Stephen Ward (Wolverhampton), resulting in ball out of play. 90:00 (+ 1:00) Shot by Luciano Civelli (Ipswich) drilled left-footed from left channel (20 yards), save (caught) by Wayne Hennessey (Wolverhampton). 90:00 (+ 0:34) Inswinging corner from left by-line taken right-footed by Alan Quinn (Ipswich) to near post, clearance by David Edwards (Wolverhampton). 90:00 (+ 0:29) Cross by Luciano Civelli (Ipswich), shot by Tommy Miller (Ipswich) drilled right-footed from left side of penalty area (12 yards), blocked by David Edwards (Wolverhampton). 88:51 Jonathan Stead (Ipswich) caught offside. Indirect free kick taken right-footed by Wayne Hennessey (Wolverhampton) from own half, resulting in open play. 88:01 Inswinging corner from right by-line taken left-footed by Luciano Civelli (Ipswich) to near post, clearance by Stephen Ward (Wolverhampton). 87:58 Shot by Pablo Counago (Ipswich) drilled right-footed from right channel (20 yards), blocked by Stephen Ward (Wolverhampton). 87:18 Shot by Jonathan Stead (Ipswich) drilled left-footed from left channel (20 yards), save (caught) by Wayne Hennessey (Wolverhampton). 86:35 Foul by David Norris (Ipswich) on David Edwards (Wolverhampton). Indirect free kick taken right-footed by Wayne Hennessey (Wolverhampton) from own half, resulting in open play. 86:13 Foul by Tommy Miller (Ipswich) on Christophe Berra (Wolverhampton). Free kick crossed left-footed by David Jones (Wolverhampton) from left channel, clearance by Luciano Civelli (Ipswich). 82:51 Foul by Andrew Keogh (Wolverhampton) on David Norris (Ipswich). Direct free kick taken right-footed by Tommy Miller (Ipswich) from right channel, resulting in open play. 81:59 Cross by Kevin Foley (Wolverhampton), clearance by Pim Balkestein (Ipswich). 81:20 Inswinging corner from right by-line taken left-footed by David Jones (Wolverhampton) to far post, clearance by Jonathan Stead (Ipswich). 80:54 Foul by Christophe Berra (Wolverhampton) on Pablo Counago (Ipswich). Free kick crossed left-footed by Luciano Civelli (Ipswich) from right wing, clearance by Christophe Berra (Wolverhampton). 79:56 Cross by Andrew Keogh (Wolverhampton), clearance by Tommy Miller (Ipswich). 79:07 Pablo Counago (Ipswich) caught offside. Indirect free kick taken right-footed by Wayne Hennessey (Wolverhampton) from own half, resulting in open play. Wolverhampton substitution: Matthew Hill replaced by Andrew Keogh (tactical). 78:37 Cross by Christophe Berra (Wolverhampton), fantastic save (caught) by Richard Wright (Ipswich). 77:54Inswinging corner from left by-line taken right-footed by Michael Kightly (Wolverhampton) to far post, clearance by Ben Thatcher (Ipswich). 77:40 Inswinging corner from left by-line taken right-footed by Michael Kightly (Wolverhampton) to near post, clearance by Luciano Civelli (Ipswich). 77:07 Inswinging corner from left by-line taken right-footed by Michael Kightly (Wolverhampton) to near post, clearance by Luciano Civelli (Ipswich). 76:44 Cross by Kevin Foley (Wolverhampton), resulting in open play. 76:13 Handball by Alan Quinn (Ipswich). Indirect free kick taken right-footed by Michael Kightly (Wolverhampton) from right channel, passed. 74:26 Cross by Stephen Ward (Wolverhampton), clearance by Pim Balkestein (Ipswich). 73:31 Foul by Tommy Miller (Ipswich) on Christophe Berra (Wolverhampton). Indirect free kick taken right-footed by Wayne Hennessey (Wolverhampton) from own half, passed. 72:51 Foul by Jody Craddock (Wolverhampton) on Jonathan Stead (Ipswich). Indirect free kick taken right-footed by Pim Balkestein (Ipswich) from own half, resulting in open play. 71:33 David Norris (Ipswich) caught offside. Ipswich substitution: Kevin Lisbie replaced by Jonathan Stead (tactical). 70:59 Cross by David Norris (Ipswich), clearance by Jody Craddock (Wolverhampton). 70:53 Cross by David Wright (Ipswich), clearance by Jody Craddock (Wolverhampton). 70:02 Kevin Lisbie (Ipswich) caught offside. Indirect free kick taken right-footed by Jody Craddock (Wolverhampton) from own half, resulting in open play. 69:17 Cross by Luciano Civelli (Ipswich), save (caught) by Wayne Hennessey (Wolverhampton). 68:36 Inswinging corner from right by-line taken left-footed by Luciano Civelli (Ipswich) to near post, clearance by David Edwards (Wolverhampton). 68:20 Foul by Sam Vokes (Wolverhampton) on Ivan Campo (Ipswich). Indirect free kick taken right-footed by Ivan Campo (Ipswich) from own half, resulting in open play. 67:45 Shot by Tommy Miller (Ipswich) drilled right-footed from right channel (25 yards), over the bar. 67:04 Handball by Luciano Civelli (Ipswich). Indirect free kick taken right-footed by Wayne Hennessey (Wolverhampton) from own half, resulting in open play. 66:10 Foul by David Wright (Ipswich) on Sylvan Ebanks-Blake (Wolverhampton). David Wright (Ipswich) booked for unsporting behaviour. Indirect free kick taken right-footed by Jody Craddock (Wolverhampton) from own half, resulting in open play. 65:36 Cross by David Norris (Ipswich), clearance by Kevin Foley (Wolverhampton). 65:18 Inswinging corner from left by-line taken right-footed by Alan Quinn (Ipswich) to near post, resulting in open play. 65:14 Shot by David Norris (Ipswich) drilled right-footed from right channel (20 yards), blocked by Jody Craddock (Wolverhampton). 64:22 Foul by Jody Craddock (Wolverhampton) on Luciano Civelli (Ipswich). Jody Craddock (Wolverhampton) booked for unsporting behaviour. Indirect free kick taken left-footed by Ben Thatcher (Ipswich) from left channel, resulting in open play. 63:20 Cross by Kevin Lisbie (Ipswich), clearance by David Jones (Wolverhampton). 62:44 Foul by Jody Craddock (Wolverhampton) on Kevin Lisbie (Ipswich). Indirect free kick taken left-footed by Ben Thatcher (Ipswich) from left wing, resulting in open play. 62:16 Shot by Christophe Berra (Wolverhampton) drilled left-footed from right side of penalty area (12 yards), save (caught) by Richard Wright (Ipswich). 61:17 Inswinging corner from left by-line taken right-footed by Michael Kightly (Wolverhampton) to far post, clearance by David Norris (Ipswich). 61:10 Cross by Michael Kightly (Wolverhampton), clearance by David Wright (Ipswich). 60:32 Handball by Matthew Hill (Wolverhampton). Indirect free kick taken right-footed by Ivan Campo (Ipswich) from own half, resulting in open play. 60:00 Cross by David Wright (Ipswich), fantastic save (caught) by Wayne Hennessey (Wolverhampton). 59:39 Shot by Kevin Lisbie (Ipswich) drilled right-footed from right side of penalty area (12 yards), save (with feet) by Richard Wright (Ipswich). 58:42 Shot by Michael Kightly (Wolverhampton) drilled left-footed from centre of penalty area (12 yards), missed left. 58:23 Shot by Sylvan Ebanks-Blake (Wolverhampton) drilled right-footed from left side of penalty area (12 yards), hit bar. 58:13 Cross by Michael Kightly (Wolverhampton), clearance by Pim Balkestein (Ipswich). 57:26 Cross by Sam Vokes (Wolverhampton), clearance by Pim Balkestein (Ipswich). 56:52 Wolverhampton substitution: Chris Iwelumo replaced by Sam Vokes (tactical). 56:35 Shot by David Edwards (Wolverhampton) drilled right-footed from right channel (25 yards), missed left. 54:51 Foul by Alan Quinn (Ipswich) on David Edwards (Wolverhampton). Alan Quinn (Ipswich) booked for unsporting behaviour. Free kick crossed left-footed by David Jones (Wolverhampton) from right channel, foul by Stephen Ward (Wolverhampton) on Pim Balkestein (Ipswich). Indirect free kick taken left-footed by Richard Wright (Ipswich) from own half, passed. 52:26 Foul by Stephen Ward (Wolverhampton) on David Wright (Ipswich). Indirect free kick taken right-footed by Ivan Campo (Ipswich) from own half, passed. 51:43 Foul by David Jones (Wolverhampton) on Kevin Lisbie (Ipswich). Indirect free kick taken left-footed by Ben Thatcher (Ipswich) from own half, passed. 49:08 Foul by Tommy Miller (Ipswich) on Sylvan Ebanks-Blake (Wolverhampton). Free kick crossed left-footed by David Jones (Wolverhampton) from left wing, comfortable save (caught) by Richard Wright (Ipswich). 47:14 Foul by David Jones (Wolverhampton) on David Norris (Ipswich). Indirect free kick taken left-footed by Richard Wright (Ipswich) from own half, resulting in open play. 46:42 Inswinging corner from left by-line taken right-footed by Michael Kightly (Wolverhampton) to far post, clearance by Pim Balkestein (Ipswich). 45:49 Kevin Lisbie (Ipswich) caught offside. Indirect free kick taken right-footed by Kevin Foley (Wolverhampton) from own half, resulting in open play. 45:01 Wolverhampton substitution: Kyel Reid replaced by Michael Kightly (tactical). 45:00 (+ 2:33) Foul by Chris Iwelumo (Wolverhampton) on Ivan Campo (Ipswich). Indirect free kick taken left-footed by Richard Wright (Ipswich) from own half, resulting in open play. 45:00 (+ 2:18) Foul by David Norris (Ipswich) on Christophe Berra (Wolverhampton). David Norris (Ipswich) booked for unsporting behaviour. Indirect free kick taken left-footed by Matthew Hill (Wolverhampton) from own half, resulting in open play. 45:00 (+ 0:53) David Norris (Ipswich) caught offside. Indirect free kick taken right-footed by Wayne Hennessey (Wolverhampton) from own half, resulting in open play. 44:39 Foul by Ben Thatcher (Ipswich) on Kyel Reid (Wolverhampton). Ben Thatcher (Ipswich) booked for unsporting behaviour. Free kick crossed left-footed by David Jones (Wolverhampton) from right wing, resulting in ball out of play. 42:16 Foul by Alan Quinn (Ipswich) on Sylvan Ebanks-Blake (Wolverhampton). Free kick crossed left-footed by Kyel Reid (Wolverhampton) from right wing, comfortable save (caught) by Richard Wright (Ipswich). 38:28 Outswinging corner from left by-line taken left-footed by Kyel Reid (Wolverhampton) to near post, clearance by Alan Quinn (Ipswich). 38:17 Cross by Stephen Ward (Wolverhampton), clearance by Pim Balkestein (Ipswich). 37:53 Foul by Ben Thatcher (Ipswich) on Kyel Reid (Wolverhampton). Ipswich substitution: Jonathan Walters replaced by Pablo Counago (injury). Shot by Kyel Reid (Wolverhampton) drilled left-footed from right channel (35 yards), missed right. 33:34 Cross by Kyel Reid (Wolverhampton), resulting in open play. 31:36 Foul by Kyel Reid (Wolverhampton) on Ben Thatcher (Ipswich). Indirect free kick taken left-footed by Richard Wright (Ipswich) from own half, resulting in open play. 30:38 Cross by Luciano Civelli (Ipswich), clearance by Jody Craddock (Wolverhampton). 29:23 Cross by David Norris (Ipswich), resulting in open play. 28:53 Cross by Matthew Hill (Wolverhampton), clearance by David Norris (Ipswich). 26:07 Foul by Kyel Reid (Wolverhampton) on Luciano Civelli (Ipswich). Indirect free kick taken left-footed by Richard Wright (Ipswich) from own half, resulting in open play. 22:12 Inswinging corner from right by-line taken left-footed by Kyel Reid (Wolverhampton) to far post, foul by Chris Iwelumo (Wolverhampton) on Richard Wright (Ipswich). Indirect free kick taken left-footed by Richard Wright (Ipswich) from own half, resulting in open play. 21:46 Handball by Tommy Miller (Ipswich). Free kick drilled left-footed by David Jones (Wolverhampton) from right channel (30 yards), save (tipped over) by Richard Wright (Ipswich). 19:28 Cross by Kyel Reid (Wolverhampton), clearance by Pim Balkestein (Ipswich). 19:15 Cross by Alan Quinn (Ipswich), fantastic save (caught) by Wayne Hennessey (Wolverhampton). 18:46 Inswinging corner from right by-line taken left-footed by Luciano Civelli (Ipswich) to near post, clearance by David Edwards (Wolverhampton). 16:54 Shot by Kevin Lisbie (Ipswich) overhead kick right-footed from left channel (18 yards), missed right. 16:37 Foul by Matthew Hill (Wolverhampton) on David Norris (Ipswich). Indirect free kick taken right-footed by Ivan Campo (Ipswich) from right channel, resulting in open play. 13:24 Foul by Kevin Lisbie (Ipswich) on Christophe Berra (Wolverhampton). Indirect free kick taken right-footed by Wayne Hennessey (Wolverhampton) from own half, passed. 13:05 Shot by Kyel Reid (Wolverhampton) drilled left-footed from right channel (25 yards), blocked by Pim Balkestein (Ipswich). 12:35 Inswinging corner from right by-line taken left-footed by Kyel Reid (Wolverhampton) to near post, clearance by Ivan Campo (Ipswich). 12:22 Cross by Kevin Foley (Wolverhampton), clearance by Alan Quinn (Ipswich). 12:06 Foul by Ben Thatcher (Ipswich) on Kyel Reid (Wolverhampton). Free kick crossed left-footed by Kyel Reid (Wolverhampton) from right wing, clearance by Ben Thatcher (Ipswich). 9:36 Foul by Ivan Campo (Ipswich) on Chris Iwelumo (Wolverhampton). Free kick crossed right-footed by Kevin Foley (Wolverhampton) from right channel, resulting in ball out of play. 7:40 Foul by Ben Thatcher (Ipswich) on Kyel Reid (Wolverhampton). Free kick crossed left-footed by Kyel Reid (Wolverhampton) from right wing, resulting in ball out of play. 5:58 Foul by Jody Craddock (Wolverhampton) on Luciano Civelli (Ipswich). Indirect free kick taken right-footed by Ivan Campo (Ipswich) from own half, resulting in open play. 4:51 Kevin Lisbie (Ipswich) caught offside. Indirect free kick taken left-footed by Wayne Hennessey (Wolverhampton) from own half, resulting in open play. 4:17 Inswinging corner from right by-line taken left-footed by Luciano Civelli (Ipswich) to near post, clearance by Jody Craddock (Wolverhampton). 3:43 Cross by Jonathan Walters (Ipswich), clearance by Matthew Hill (Wolverhampton). 2:33 Foul by Christophe Berra (Wolverhampton) on David Norris (Ipswich). Free kick crossed left-footed by Alan Quinn (Ipswich) from right channel, clearance by Jody Craddock (Wolverhampton). 1:37 Cross by Stephen Ward (Wolverhampton), comfortable save (caught) by Richard Wright (Ipswich). 0:57 Kevin Lisbie (Ipswich) caught offside. Indirect free kick taken right-footed by Wayne Hennessey (Wolverhampton) from own half, resulting in open play. 0:49 Foul by Kevin Lisbie (Ipswich) on Jody Craddock (Wolverhampton). Indirect free kick taken right-footed by Wayne Hennessey (Wolverhampton) from own half, resulting in open play. 0:16 Cross by David Wright (Ipswich), clearance by Kevin Foley (Wolverhampton).
 

Saturday 7th March  at Hillsborough - Sheffield Wednesday 0  Wolves 1 (Ebanks-Blake 5)

A much more assured performance, and at times dominant.  Wednesday had a couple of chances, and Wayne made some strange clearances, but former Wolves Mickey & Leon were to suffer.  Kights was much more active and the defence more assured with Christophe Berra, while Craddock was restored to the captaincy as Karl was banned.  Dave Jones joined Dave Edwards in midfield with Friend and Hill both staying in from Tuesday's team.  Keogh was on the bench again, only to come on and miss again.  Chris Iwelumo didn't get a shot but caused the defence quite a problem.  Stears was lucky to stay on the pitch after a tackle when Jeffers had got clear.  Kights went off with a pull, but hopefully will recover quickly.  Mick looked a lot happier in his Sky Sports interviews immediately after the match.  Reading's draw at Plymouth has changed the position to give us the advantage again, even after their (and Cardiff''s) games in hand.

Wolves said:

Sylvan Ebanks-Blake was on the mark again as Wolves recorded a second 1-0 away win in the space of five days - the striker's 23rd goal of the season putting paid to Sheffield Wednesday.

There was just one change to the Wolves line-up with Dave Jones coming in for the suspended Karl Henry. The Wednesday team included Molineux 'old boys' Micky Gray and Leon Clarke.  Wolves defended the Leppings Lane end of Hillsborough that housed around 3,000 of their supporters. And those fans were in full voice with just five minutes gone as Wanderers took the lead.  Michael Kightly collected a throw-in from Kevin Foley and curled over a cross to the far post where Ebanks-Blake was waiting to head firmly past home keeper Lee Grant.   Dave Edwards was well wide with a header following a George Friend corner and when Gray took a flag-kick at the other end for the Owls, the ball was headed out to Sean McAllister whose deflected shot was cleared by Jody Craddock from the heart of a crowded area.   Craddock came to the rescue again in the 14th minute with a great tackle that allowed Wayne Hennessey to collect after Clarke had latched on to a through ball over the top.  A minute later it took a great stop from Grant to deny Wolves a second goal. Ebanks-Blake delivered a low cross from the right and the Wednesday keeper somehow blocked Kightly's near post flick.   Friend was wide with a header from Edwards' cross and Gray headed into Hennessey's arms with an effort from just outside the box after connecting with Marcus Tudgay's centre.  Play continued to swing from end to end and after Edwards had driven narrowly wide from 20-yards, Hennessey easily claimed James O'Connor's free-kick after Craddock had fouled Tudgay on the Wednesday left.  When Jones pumped a free-kick into the home box there was a tremendous scramble before the ball was eventually hoofed clear, and then Jermaine Johnson wasted a golden chance of pulling his side level. Kightly's corner was cleared upfield to Johnson who beat Matt Hill and then checked inside Foley. But with the goal at his mercy, the striker ballooned his shot high over the bar.  It was Wolves' turn to go close again with 37th minutes gone. Foley and Edwards combined to carve out an opening for Ebanks-Blake who got goalside of his marker and shot for goal only for Richard Hinds to stick out a boot and deflect the ball onto the roof of the net.  The home defence was struggling to contain Ebanks-Blake and when he ran in along the by-line and planted the ball into the goalmouth there was another scramble before Wednesday cleared.

Half-Time: Wednesday 0 Wolves 1

Francis Jeffers was a replacement for Clarke at the start of the second-half which was five minutes old when Christophe Berra got in a timely tackle on Johnson who was about to break into the Wolves area.  Hill went into the book for pulling back Johnson but Gray's free-kick was cleared without too much trouble.  Hennessey dived to pluck a dangerous cross from O'Connor out of the air before Gray left the field to applause from both sets of supporters when he was replaced by Akpo Sodje. Just a minute later Stephen Ward went on in place of Friend.  Twice within a few seconds Berra made vital challenges. He cleared as Sodje burst into the box and then outmuscled Johnson who would otherwise have been in the clear.   After Tommy Spurr had handled 25-yards out, Jones played a short free-kick to Kightly who flicked the ball up for his team-mate to get in a volley that was wide of the mark.  Just after Andy Keogh had trotted on to replace Ebanks-Blake, Hennessey made a good, low save after Johnson had met Tudgay's centre from the left.  Keogh was yellow carded after a late challenge on Spurr and then Richard Stearman became the last of Mick McCarthy's changes when he came on for the final few minutes in place of Kightly.  Keogh almost calmed the nerves of the Wolves support with a second after Ward and Grant had collided on the edge of the box. The loose ball ran to the Irish striker whose 25-yard shot was cleared from in front of the vacant net by Spurr.
Stearman went into the book for upending Jeffers and then a free-kick from the corner of the visitors box was taken by Tudgay and headed narrowly over by Hinds. But the flag was raised for offside anyway.  Deep into the four minutes of stoppage time Keogh was high and wide with a shot but the striker, with some excellent possession work near the corner flag, did a great job as the seconds ticked away.

Wednesday: Grant, Spurr, Hinds, Tudgay, McAllister, Wood (capt), O'Connor (Boden 87), Clarke (Jeffers 45), Gray (Sodje 69), Buxton, Johnson.  Unused subs: Beevers, Simek.

Wolves: Hennessey, Foley, M. Hill, Jones, Craddock (capt), Berra, Kightly (Stearman 85), Edwards, Ebanks-Blake (Keogh 77), Iwelumo, Friend (S. Ward 70). Unused subs: D. Ward, Vokes.  Bookings: Hill (56 - holding), Keogh (83 - foul), Stearman (89 - foul).

Referee: S. Matthieson.  Attendance: 23,703

Stats                      Sheffield Wed   Wolverhampton Wanderers

Goals:---------------------------0--------------1

Possession:-------------------51-------------49

Shots On Target:--------------5---------------2

Shots Off Target:-------------4----------------6

Corners:-----------------------1----------------7

Fouls:--------------------------4--------------16

Most Fouls:           Tudgay (2)          Keogh (3)

Yellow Cards:----------------0---------------3

Scorers:                                     Ebanks-Blake (4)
 

As it happened

90:00 (+ 3:38) Foul by Andrew Keogh (Wolves) on Sean McAllister (Sheff Wed). Direct free kick taken right-footed by Lee Grant (Sheff Wed) from own half, resulting in open play. 90:00 (+ 1:25) Shot by Andrew Keogh (Wolves) drilled right-footed from left channel (20 yards), over the bar. 90:00 (+ 1:01) Richard Hinds (Sheff Wed) caught offside. Indirect free kick taken right-footed by Wayne Hennessey (Wolves) from own half, resulting in open play. 90:00 (+ 0:33) Foul by Richard Stearman (Wolves) on Akpo Sodje (Sheff Wed). Direct free kick taken right-footed by Marcus Tudgay (Sheff Wed) from left wing, resulting in open play. 89:22 Handball by Marcus Tudgay (Sheff Wed). Direct free kick taken right-footed by Wayne Hennessey (Wolves) from own half, resulting in open play. 88:48 Foul by Richard Stearman (Wolves) on Richard Wood (Sheff Wed). Richard Stearman (Wolves) booked for unsporting behaviour. Direct free kick taken right-footed by Lewis Buxton (Sheff Wed) from own half, resulting in open play. 87:53 Inswinging corner from left by-line taken right-footed by Andrew Keogh (Wolves) to far post, resulting in open play. 87:48 Cross by Stephen Ward (Wolves), blocked by Richard Hinds (Sheff Wed). 86:55 Cross by Stephen Ward (Wolves), clearance by Richard Wood (Sheff Wed). 86:43 Corner from left by-line taken short right-footed by Andrew Keogh (Wolves). 86:38 Cross by Stephen Ward (Wolves), blocked by Marcus Tudgay (Sheff Wed). 86:09 Sheff Wed substitution: James O'Connor replaced by Luke Boden (tactical). Attacking throw-in by Stephen Ward (Wolves). 85:22 Outswinging corner from left by-line taken right-footed by Andrew Keogh (Wolves) to near post, clearance by Akpo Sodje (Sheff Wed). 83:34 Andrew Keogh (Wolves) caught offside. Wolverhampton substitution: Michael Kightly replaced by Richard Stearman (injury). Indirect free kick taken right-footed by Lee Grant (Sheff Wed) from own half, resulting in open play. 82:38 Foul by Andrew Keogh (Wolves) on Tommy Spurr (Sheff Wed). Direct free kick taken right-footed by James O'Connor (Sheff Wed) from left wing, resulting in open play. Andrew Keogh (Wolves) booked for unsporting behaviour. 81:33Foul by Andrew Keogh (Wolves) on Richard Wood (Sheff Wed). Direct free kick taken right-footed by Lee Grant (Sheff Wed) from own half, resulting in open play. 77:23 Cross by Marcus Tudgay (Sheff Wed), shot by Jermaine Johnson (Sheff Wed) drilled right-footed from centre of penalty area (18 yards), save (caught) by Wayne Hennessey (Wolves). 76:13 Wolverhampton substitution: Sylvan Ebanks-Blake replaced by Andrew Keogh (tactical). 73:38 Foul by Michael Kightly (Wolves) on Jermaine Johnson (Sheff Wed). Direct free kick taken right-footed by James O'Connor (Sheff Wed) from left channel, resulting in open play. 73:14 Shot by David Jones (Wolves) volleyed right-footed from right channel (25 yards), over the bar. 72:15 Handball by Tommy Spurr (Sheff Wed). Direct free kick taken right-footed by Michael Kightly (Wolves) from right channel, passed. 70:56 Header by Marcus Tudgay (Sheff Wed) from centre of penalty area (18 yards), save (caught) by Wayne Hennessey (Wolves). 70:35 Handball by Sylvan Ebanks-Blake (Wolves). Direct free kick taken right-footed by Lee Grant (Sheff Wed) from own half, resulting in open play. 69:20 Wolverhampton substitution: George Friend replaced by Stephen Ward (tactical). 68:10 Foul by James O'Connor (Sheff Wed) on Christophe Berra (Wolves). Sheff Wed substitution: Michael Gray replaced by Akpo Sodje (tactical). Direct free kick taken right-footed by Wayne Hennessey (Wolves) from own half, resulting in open play. 67:40 Cross by Michael Gray (Sheff Wed), clearance by Jody Craddock (Wolves). 67:16 Cross by James O'Connor (Sheff Wed), save (caught) by Wayne Hennessey (Wolves). 65:09 Shot by Francis Jeffers (Sheff Wed) drilled right-footed from right channel (25 yards), over the bar. 62:06 Sylvan Ebanks-Blake (Wolves) caught offside. Indirect free kick taken right-footed by Lee Grant (Sheff Wed) from own half, resulting in open play. 58:41 Cross by Jermaine Johnson (Sheff Wed), resulting in ball out of play. 58:35 Foul by Matthew Hill (Wolves) on Jermaine Johnson (Sheff Wed). Matthew Hill (Wolves) booked for unsporting behaviour. Free kick crossed left-footed by Michael Gray (Sheff Wed) from right channel, clearance by Jody Craddock (Wolves). 56:32 Jermaine Johnson (Sheff Wed) caught offside. Indirect free kick taken right-footed by Wayne Hennessey (Wolves) from own half, resulting in open play. 56:12 Michael Gray (Sheff Wed) caught offside. Indirect free kick taken right-footed by Christophe Berra (Wolves) from own half, passed. 55:56 Cross by Michael Gray (Sheff Wed), save (caught) by Wayne Hennessey (Wolves). 55:24 Foul by Sylvan Ebanks-Blake (Wolves) on Richard Hinds (Sheff Wed). Direct free kick taken right-footed by Lee Grant (Sheff Wed) from own half, resulting in open play. 54:42 Foul by Sylvan Ebanks-Blake (Wolves) on Richard Wood (Sheff Wed). Direct free kick taken right-footed by Lee Grant (Sheff Wed) from own half, resulting in open play. 52:50 Cross by Lewis Buxton (Sheff Wed), clearance by Matthew Hill (Wolves). 47:22 Cross by Michael Kightly (Wolves), resulting in open play. 45:01 Sheff Wed substitution: Leon Clarke replaced by Francis Jeffers (injury). 45:00 (+ 0:29) Jermaine Johnson (Sheff Wed) caught offside. Indirect free kick taken right-footed by Wayne Hennessey (Wolves) from own half, resulting in open play. 43:40 Shot by Sylvan Ebanks-Blake (Wolves) drilled right-footed from right channel (25 yards), over the bar. 42:39 Cross by Chris Iwelumo (Wolves), save (caught) by Lee Grant (Sheff Wed). 41:08 Shot by Jermaine Johnson (Sheff Wed) drilled right-footed from left channel (25 yards), missed left. 39:39 Chris Iwelumo (Wolves) caught offside. Indirect free kick taken right-footed by Lee Grant (Sheff Wed) from own half, resulting in open play. 38:38 Foul by Michael Kightly (Wolves) on Tommy Spurr (Sheff Wed). Direct free kick taken right-footed by Lee Grant (Sheff Wed) from own half, resulting in open play. 37:25 Inswinging corner from right by-line taken left-footed by George Friend (Wolves) to near post, save (caught) by Lee Grant(Sheff Wed). 37:00 Shot by Sylvan Ebanks-Blake (Wolves) drilled right-footed from centre of penalty area (12 yards), blocked by Richard Hinds(Sheff Wed). 35:30 Jermaine Johnson(Sheff Wed) caught offside. Direct free kick taken right-footed by Wayne Hennessey (Wolves) from own half, resulting in open play. 34:42 Foul by Sylvan Ebanks-Blake(Wolverhampton) on Richard Hinds (Sheff Wed). Direct free kick taken right-footed by Lee Grant (Sheff Wed) from own half, resulting in open play. 33:49 Shot by Jermaine Johnson (Sheff Wed) right-footed from centre of penalty area (12 yards), over the bar. 33:11 Inswinging corner from left by-line taken right-footed by Michael Kightly (Wolves) to centre, clearance by Michael Gray (Sheff Wed). 33:02 Cross by David Edwards (Wolves), clearance by Richard Hinds (Sheff Wed). 31:08 Foul by Jermaine Johnson (Sheff Wed) on Matthew Hill (Wolves). Free kick crossed left-footed by David Jones (Wolves) from left wing, clearance by Richard Hinds (Sheff Wed). 30:10 Foul by Jody Craddock (Wolves) on Marcus Tudgay (Sheff Wed). Free kick crossed right-footed by James O'Connor (Sheff Wed) from left wing, save (caught) by Wayne Hennessey (Wolves). 28:35 Shot by David Edwards (Wolves) drilled right-footed from left channel (20 yards), missed right. 27:57 Outswinging corner from right by-line taken right-footed by Michael Kightly (Wolves) to far post, resulting in open play. 27:41 Cross by Matthew Hill (Wolves), clearance by Tommy Spurr (Sheff Wed). 27:04 Foul by Marcus Tudgay (Sheff Wed) on Matthew Hill (Wolves). Direct free kick taken right-footed by Wayne Hennessey (Wolves) from own half, resulting in open play. 26:04 Leon Clarke (Sheff Wed) caught offside. Indirect free kick taken right-footed by Wayne Hennessey (Wolves) from own half, resulting in open play. 25:36 Foul by Kevin Foley (Wolves) on Michael Gray (Sheff Wed). Direct free kick taken left-footed by Tommy Spurr (Sheff Wed) from own half, resulting in open play. 25:11 Cross by Marcus Tudgay (Sheff Wed), header by Michael Gray (Sheff Wed) from left channel (20 yards), save (caught) by Wayne Hennessey (Wolves). 20:38 Cross by David Edwards (Wolves), header by George Friend (Wolves) from centre of penalty area (12 yards), missed right. 18:59 Cross by David Edwards (Wolves), clearance by Sean McAllister (Sheff Wed). 18:24 Foul by Marcus Tudgay (Sheff Wed) on Christophe Berra (Wolves). Direct free kick taken right-footed by Wayne Hennessey (Wolves) from own half, resulting in open play. 17:55 Foul by Chris Iwelumo (Wolves) on Richard Wood (Sheff Wed). Direct free kick taken right-footed by Lee Grant (Sheff Wed) from own half, resulting in open play. 17:19 Weak shot by Jermaine Johnson (Sheff Wed) drilled left-footed from right channel (30 yards), missed right. 17:11 Cross by Lewis Buxton (Sheff Wed), clearance by Matthew Hill (Wolves). 16:27 Chris Iwelumo (Wolves) caught offside. Indirect free kick taken right-footed by Lee Grant (Sheff Wed) from own half, resulting in open play. 15:06 Shot by Sean McAllister (Sheff Wed) drilled right-footed from right channel (30 yards), save (caught) by Wayne Hennessey (Wolves). 14:25 Cross by Sylvan Ebanks-Blake (Wolves), clearance by Lee Grant (Sheff Wed). 12:59 Shot by James O'Connor (Sheff Wed) drilled right-footed from right channel (20 yards), blocked by Christophe Berra (Wolves). 12:14 Outswinging corner from left by-line taken left-footed by Michael Gray (Sheff Wed) to far post, resulting in open play. 10:49 Chris Iwelumo (Wolves) caught offside. Indirect free kick taken right-footed by Lee Grant (Sheff Wed) from own half, resulting in open play. 8:55 Foul by Jody Craddock (Wolves) on Marcus Tudgay (Sheff Wed). Direct free kick taken left-footed by Richard Wood (Sheff Wed) from own half, resulting in open play. 8:08 Leon Clarke (Sheff Wed) caught offside. Indirect free kick taken right-footed by Wayne Hennessey (Wolves) from own half, resulting in open play. 7:38 Inswinging corner from right by-line taken left-footed by George Friend (Wolves) to far post, header by David Edwards (Wolves) from centre of penalty area (6 yards), missed left. 5:08 Leon Clarke (Sheff Wed) caught offside. Indirect free kick taken right-footed by Wayne Hennessey (Wolves) from own half, resulting in open play. 4:29 Cross by Michael Kightly (Wolves), headed goal by Sylvan Ebanks-Blake (Wolves) (bottom-left of goal) from centre of penalty area (12 yards).Sheff Wed 0-1 Wolverhampton. Assist (cross) by Michael Kightly (Wolves) from right wing. 2:54Foul by Christophe Berra (Wolves) on Leon Clarke (Sheff Wed). Direct free kick taken right-footed by Lewis Buxton (Sheff Wed) from own half, resulting in open play. 1:27 Cross by David Jones (Wolves), resulting in open play. 0:46 Cross by David Edwards (Wolves), resulting in open play.
 

Tuesday 3rd March at the Palace.   Crystal Palace 0 Wolves 1 (pen SEB 74)

Well, the Railway Telegraph ran out of Youngs, a sure warning before the match.  Selhurst Park might be a bit of a tip, but at least the roof kept the torrential rain out (until it came in from the pitch).  A huge battling effort from all the players, with Mick finally playing the right striking partnership of Sylvan and Chris.  Another poor referee, denying us two pens and them one, while the lino gave the push from behind on Kites to finally award a penalty.   This led to an almst unintelligible rant from Neil Warnock on Sky Sports afterwards. Andy Keogh made a late entrance and was put clean through only to waste the chance to make the game safe, which the club report seems to have missed.   Clearly PO'C's girlfriend wearing the right Wolves shirt had a winning influence - just come for the next 10 matches!! It felt like we'd not really created many chances - only 3 on target - but this was a far better performance, which maintained the lead over Reading and Birmingham.  And the players celebrated with the fans.  Palace's catering has also gone downhill!

Crystal Palace 0  Wolves 1 (Ebanks-Blake-pen 74)

A Sylvan Ebanks-Blake penalty gave Wolves a deserved win over Crystal Palace after a much improved performance from Mick McCarthy's men.

And with rivals Reading coming from behind to win at Sheffield Wednesday, the points helped Wolves maintain their lead at the top of the Championship table.  George Friend was preferred to Kyel Reid on the left of midfield and Chris Iwelumo played alongside Ebanks-Blake with Andy Keogh dropping down to the bench. With Stephen Ward ruled out through injury, Matt Hill played at left-back.  Torrential rain and strong winds greeted the teams as they ran out at Selhurst Park and in the difficult conditions the opening 15 minutes came and went without so much as a sniff of a chance for either side. But then a mix up between Clint Hill and Jose Fonte in the home area led to Iwelumo gaining possession and laying the ball off for Ebanks-Blake to hit a low shot that was saved by the diving Julian Speroni.  In the 19th minute Iwelumo looked a certainty to score as Michael Kightly delivered a low cross towards the far post but Clint Hill just managed to deflect the ball away from the striker.  Ebanks-Blake hit a 25-yard drive straight at Speroni and then a Kightly effort from the edge of the box was deflected for a corner that was taken by Friend.  From the flag-kick a defender headed the ball straight back to the Wolves man who ran into the area before finding Dave Edwards who was shoved in the back by Fonte. It looked like a penalty but the referee waved aside the appeals. Sean Scannell only received a lecture from the official after he had clattered into Matt Hill and when Kightly lifted the free-kick into the box Christophe Berra looked to be pulled back by Matt Lawrence.
The ball ran to Iwelumo whose shot from 12-yards took a deflection allowing Speroni to make a sprawling save.  Clint Hill tripped Ebanks-Blake to the right of the home area but Kightly's free-kick was caught by the wind and it drifted harmlessly over the bar. Palace almost moved ahead in the 37th minute when Jody Craddock, in attempting to clear Scannell's driven cross, touched the ball against the base of his own post. It was the first threat on Wayne Hennessey's goal.  Wolves were soon back on the attack and twice before the interval they went close to breaking through.  Friend was a whisker away from connecting with a low cross from Kightly who had run onto Ebanks-Blake's nicely weighted pass on the right flank. Then Iwelumo headed on a long ball out of defence to 'Karl Henry who would have been clean through had Clint Hill not timed his last ditch tackle to perfection.

Half-Time: Palace 0 Wolves 0

The woodwork came to Wolves' rescue once again with 51 minutes gone after Craddock had fouled Hill on the Palace left. Paul Ifill's free-kick slithered along the sodden surface through a crowded box and Hennessey was at full stretch as he touched the ball onto the post before Friend turned it behind for a corner that came to nothing.  Berra went into the book for a tackle from behind on Alan Lee before Palace replaced Scannell with Anthony Stokes. Ifill ran through and was in with a chance as the ball held up in the wind but Hennessey managed to deflect it away as the players met on the 18-yard line. Two minutes later a shot from Ifill took a deflection as it flew through the Wolves box and went behind off a defender for a corner.  Lawrence went into the book for sending Ebanks-Blake sliding into the mud at the side of the pitch and shortly afterwards Craddock was shown the yellow card after a similar offence on Stokes in exactly the same spot.   Palace made a further change when John Oster was sent on in place of Lee Hills before Wolves finally broke through with 74th minutes gone.  Kightly broke clear and sprinted into the box and was about to shoot when he was felled by Clint Hill from behind. Ebanks-Blake kept his nerve sending Speroni the wrong was as he rolled the ball into the net. A minute later Kightly almost grabbed a second as he connected with Friend's deep cross but from a tight angle he was only able to divert the ball into the side netting. Jamie Scowcroft was the last of the home side's substitutes when he went on for Lee, and after Friend had poked the ball wide following a Kightly cross, Keogh replaced Ebanks-Blake for the closing minutes.  Matt Hill was cautioned for time wasting and Iwelumo was hurt as he was challenged going for Keogh's low centre. The striker was replaced by Sam Vokes.   In the four minutes of added time Henry was yellow carded for kicking the ball away after conceding a free-kick, and Kightly, who had enjoyed a fine game, was replaced by Richard Stearman as Wolves held their nerve and claimed a vital victory.

Palace: Speroni, Lawrence, C. Hill, Derry (capt), Fonte, Lee (Scowcroft 78), Scannell (Stokes 61), Hills (Oster 67), Danns, Ifill, Clyne.  Unused subs: Ertl, R. Fonte.  Booking: Lawrence (64 - foul).

Wolves: Hennessey, Foley, M. Hill, Henry (capt), Craddock, Berra, Kightly (Stearman 90), Edwards, Ebanks-Blake (Keogh 84), Iwelumo (Vokes 89), Friend. Unused subs: D. Ward, Reid.
Bookings: Berra (56 - foul), Craddock (66 - foul), Hill (86 - time-wasting), Henry (90 - kicking ball away).

Referee: G. Horwood. Attendance: 14,907 (1,421 away supporters).

Stats

                   Crystal Palace     Wolverhampton Wanderers

Goals:                  0                      1

Possession:         46%               54%

Shots On Target:  1                    3

Shots Off Target:  1                   1

Corners:              4                   6

Fouls:               16                  17

Most Fouls:    Fonte (3)   Craddock (6)

Yellow Cards:    2                   4

Red Cards:        0                   0

Scorers:                                 Ebanks-Blake (73)
 

Minute by Minute

90:00 (+ 5:13) Foul by Christophe Berra(Wolverhampton) on Jose Fonte(Crystal Palace). Free kick crossed right-footed by John Oster(Crystal Palace) from right channel, save (caught) by Wayne Hennessey(Wolverhampton). 90:00 (+ 3:52) Foul by Anthony Stokes(Crystal Palace) on Matthew Hill(Wolverhampton). Direct free kick taken right-footed by Wayne Hennessey(Wolverhampton) from own half, resulting in open play. 90:00 (+ 2:02) Wolverhampton substitution: Michael Kightly replaced by Richard Stearman (tactical). 90:00 (+ 1:07) Foul by Matthew Hill(Wolverhampton) on John Oster(Crystal Palace). Karl Henry(Wolverhampton) booked for dissent. Free kick crossed right-footed by John Oster(Crystal Palace) from right channel, resulting in ball out of play. Defending throw-in by Kevin Foley(Wolverhampton). 90:00 (+ 0:02)Foul by Christophe Berra(Wolverhampton) on James Scowcroft(Crystal Palace). Free kick crossed right-footed by Nathanial Clyne(Crystal Palace) from right channel, save (caught) by Wayne Hennessey(Wolverhampton). 88:11 Foul by Nathanial Clyne(Crystal Palace) on Matthew Hill(Wolverhampton). Wolverhampton substitution: Chris Iwelumo replaced by Sam Vokes (injury). Direct free kick taken right-footed by Andrew Keogh(Wolverhampton) from left channel, passed. 87:33 Inswinging corner from left by-line taken left-footed by George Friend(Wolverhampton) to short, resulting in open play. 86:25 Outswinging corner from left by-line taken left-footed by George Friend(Wolverhampton) to short, resulting in open play. 86:05 Matthew Hill(Wolverhampton) booked for unsporting behaviour. 85:08 Anthony Stokes(Crystal Palace) caught offside. Indirect free kick taken right-footed by Wayne Hennessey(Wolverhampton) from own half, resulting in open play. 83:41 Handball by Chris Iwelumo(Wolverhampton). Direct free kick taken right-footed by Matthew Lawrence(Crystal Palace) from own half, resulting in open play. 83:00 Outswinging corner from right by-line taken right-footed by Michael Kightly(Wolverhampton) to far post, foul by Jody Craddock(Wolverhampton) on James Scowcroft(Crystal Palace). Wolverhampton substitution: Sylvan Ebanks-Blake replaced by Andrew Keogh (tactical). Direct free kick taken right-footed by Julian Speroni(Crystal Palace) from own half, resulting in open play. 81:45 Foul by Sylvan Ebanks-Blake(Wolverhampton) on Jose Fonte(Crystal Palace). Direct free kick taken right-footed by Julian Speroni(Crystal Palace) from own half, resulting in open play. 80:52 Handball by Anthony Stokes(Crystal Palace). Direct free kick taken right-footed by Wayne Hennessey(Wolverhampton) from own half, resulting in open play. 79:50 Outswinging corner from right by-line taken right-footed by Michael Kightly(Wolverhampton) to short, resulting in open play. 78:18 Cross by Sylvan Ebanks-Blake(Wolverhampton), shot by George Friend(Wolverhampton) right-footed from left side of six-yard box (6 yards), missed left. 77:36 Inswinging corner from left by-line taken right-footed by George Friend(Wolverhampton) to far post, clearance by John Oster(Crystal Palace). 76:50 Crystal Palace substitution: Alan Lee replaced by James Scowcroft (tactical). Attacking throw-in by Matthew Hill(Wolverhampton). 75:04 Foul by Jody Craddock(Wolverhampton) on Paul Ifill(Crystal Palace). Direct free kick taken right-footed by John Oster(Crystal Palace) from left wing, resulting in open play. 73:58 Assist by Michael Kightly(Wolverhampton) from right side of penalty area. 73:16 Foul by Clint Hill(Crystal Palace) on Michael Kightly(Wolverhampton). Placed penalty taken right-footed by Sylvan Ebanks-Blake(Wolverhampton) (bottom-right of goal), scored.Crystal Palace 0-1 Wolverhampton. 71:26Paul Ifill(Crystal Palace) caught offside. Indirect free kick taken right-footed by Wayne Hennessey(Wolverhampton) from own half, resulting in open play. 68:08 Sylvan Ebanks-Blake(Wolverhampton) caught offside. Indirect free kick taken right-footed by Clint Hill(Crystal Palace) from own half, resulting in open play. 67:33 Sylvan Ebanks-Blake(Wolverhampton) caught offside. Indirect free kick taken right-footed by Julian Speroni(Crystal Palace) from own half, resulting in open play. 66:49 Crystal Palace substitution: Lee Hills replaced by John Oster (tactical). 65:43 Foul by Jody Craddock(Wolverhampton) on Anthony Stokes(Crystal Palace). Jody Craddock(Wolverhampton) booked for unsporting behaviour. Direct free kick taken right-footed by Jose Fonte(Crystal Palace) from right wing, resulting in open play. 64:44 Inswinging corner from right by-line taken left-footed by Lee Hills(Crystal Palace) to near post, clearance by Kevin Foley(Wolverhampton). Inswinging corner from right by-line taken left-footed by Lee Hills(Crystal Palace) to centre, clearance by Karl Henry(Wolverhampton). Foul by Matthew Lawrence(Crystal Palace) on Sylvan Ebanks-Blake(Wolverhampton). Matthew Lawrence(Crystal Palace) booked for unsporting behaviour. Direct free kick taken right-footed by Wayne Hennessey(Wolverhampton) from own half, resulting in open play. 63:40 Foul by Jody Craddock(Wolverhampton) on Anthony Stokes(Crystal Palace). Free kick crossed left-footed by Clint Hill(Crystal Palace) from left channel, resulting in open play. 60:51 Foul by Jose Fonte(Crystal Palace) on Chris Iwelumo(Wolverhampton). Direct free kick taken right-footed by Matthew Hill(Wolverhampton) from own half, resulting in open play. 60:01 Crystal Palace substitution: Sean Scannell replaced by Anthony Stokes (tactical). 57:20 Handball by Karl Henry(Wolverhampton). Direct free kick taken right-footed by Julian Speroni(Crystal Palace) from own half, resulting in open play. 55:20 Foul by Christophe Berra(Wolverhampton) on Alan Lee(Crystal Palace). Christophe Berra(Wolverhampton) booked for unsporting behaviour. Direct free kick taken right-footed by Matthew Lawrence(Crystal Palace) from right channel, resulting in open play. 54:20 Foul by Clint Hill(Crystal Palace) on Michael Kightly(Wolverhampton). Direct free kick taken right-footed by Wayne Hennessey(Wolverhampton) from own half, resulting in open play. 52:43 Foul by Sean Scannell(Crystal Palace) on Matthew Hill(Wolverhampton). Direct free kick taken right-footed by Matthew Hill(Wolverhampton) from left channel, resulting in open play. 51:41 Alan Lee(Crystal Palace) caught offside. Indirect free kick taken right-footed by Wayne Hennessey(Wolverhampton) from own half, resulting in open play. 51:32 Foul by Christophe Berra(Wolverhampton) on Alan Lee(Crystal Palace). Free kick crossed right-footed by Shaun Derry(Crystal Palace) from right channel, resulting in open play. 50:41 Inswinging corner from right by-line taken left-footed by Lee Hills(Crystal Palace) to centre, save (caught) by Wayne Hennessey(Wolverhampton). 50:22 Foul by Jody Craddock(Wolverhampton) on Clint Hill(Crystal Palace). Free kick taken right-footed by Paul Ifill(Crystal Palace) curled from left channel (25 yards), save (parried) by Wayne Hennessey(Wolverhampton). 48:40 Foul by Chris Iwelumo(Wolverhampton) on Matthew Lawrence(Crystal Palace). Direct free kick taken right-footed by Julian Speroni(Crystal Palace) from own half, resulting in open play. 45:46 Inswinging corner from right by-line taken left-footed by Lee Hills(Crystal Palace) to near post, clearance by Matthew Hill(Wolverhampton). 45:00 (+ 0:09) Sylvan Ebanks-Blake(Wolverhampton) caught offside. Indirect free kick taken right-footed by Julian Speroni(Crystal Palace) from own half, resulting in open play. 43:53 Foul by Matthew Hill(Wolverhampton) on Paul Ifill(Crystal Palace). Free kick crossed left-footed by Lee Hills(Crystal Palace) from right wing, save (caught) by Wayne Hennessey(Wolverhampton). 43:00 Foul by Christophe Berra(Wolverhampton) on Alan Lee(Crystal Palace). Free kick crossed right-footed by Shaun Derry(Crystal Palace) from right channel, save (punched) by Wayne Hennessey(Wolverhampton). 40:30 Chris Iwelumo(Wolverhampton) caught offside. Indirect free kick taken right-footed by Julian Speroni(Crystal Palace) from own half, resulting in open play. 40:01 Foul by Alan Lee(Crystal Palace) on Matthew Hill(Wolverhampton). Direct free kick taken right-footed by Wayne Hennessey(Wolverhampton) from own half, resulting in open play. 37:32 Foul by Jose Fonte(Crystal Palace) on Sylvan Ebanks-Blake(Wolverhampton). Direct free kick taken right-footed by George Friend(Wolverhampton) from right channel, resulting in open play. 31:10 Shot by Lee Hills(Crystal Palace) left-footed from right channel (25 yards), missed left. Goal kick taken long by Wayne Hennessey(Wolverhampton). 29:21 Foul by Clint Hill(Crystal Palace) on Sylvan Ebanks-Blake(Wolverhampton). Direct free kick taken right-footed by Michael Kightly(Wolverhampton) from right wing, passed. Cross by Michael Kightly(Wolverhampton), resulting in ball out of play. Goal kick taken short by Julian Speroni(Crystal Palace). 28:02 Foul by Alan Lee(Crystal Palace) on Jody Craddock(Wolverhampton). Direct free kick taken right-footed by Wayne Hennessey(Wolverhampton) from own half, resulting in open play. 27:49 Foul by Sean Scannell(Crystal Palace) on Christophe Berra(Wolverhampton). Sean Scannell(Crystal Palace) booked for unsporting behaviour. Free kick crossed right-footed by Michael Kightly(Wolverhampton) from left wing, clearance by Shaun Derry(Crystal Palace). Shot by Chris Iwelumo(Wolverhampton) right-footed from centre of penalty area (12 yards), save (caught) by Julian Speroni(Crystal Palace). 26:26 Cross by George Friend(Wolverhampton), resulting in open play. 25:59 Foul by Alan Lee(Crystal Palace) on George Friend(Wolverhampton). Direct free kick taken right-footed by Wayne Hennessey(Wolverhampton) from own half, resulting in open play. 22:16 Outswinging corner from left by-line taken left-footed by George Friend(Wolverhampton) to near post, clearance by Jose Fonte(Crystal Palace). 20:07 Shot by Sylvan Ebanks-Blake(Wolverhampton) right-footed from left channel (25 yards), save (caught) by Julian Speroni(Crystal Palace). 19:18 Foul by Karl Henry(Wolverhampton) on Neil Danns(Crystal Palace). Direct free kick taken right-footed by Julian Speroni(Crystal Palace) from own half, resulting in open play. 17:48 Foul by Neil Danns(Crystal Palace) on Jody Craddock(Wolverhampton). Direct free kick taken right-footed by Wayne Hennessey(Wolverhampton) from own half, resulting in open play. 17:09 Shot by Sylvan Ebanks-Blake(Wolverhampton) right-footed from right side of penalty area (18 yards), save (caught) by Julian Speroni(Crystal Palace). 15:07 Paul Ifill(Crystal Palace) caught offside. Indirect free kick taken right-footed by Wayne Hennessey(Wolverhampton) from own half, resulting in open play. 12:31 Chris Iwelumo(Wolverhampton) caught offside. Indirect free kick taken right-footed by Julian Speroni(Crystal Palace) from own half, resulting in open play. 9:26 Foul by Jose Fonte(Crystal Palace) on Chris Iwelumo(Wolverhampton). Direct free kick taken right-footed by Wayne Hennessey(Wolverhampton) from own half, resulting in open play. 5:55 Foul by Sean Scannell(Crystal Palace) on Matthew Hill(Wolverhampton). Direct free kick taken right-footed by Wayne Hennessey(Wolverhampton) from own half, resulting in open play. 3:33 Foul by Jody Craddock(Wolverhampton) on Alan Lee(Crystal Palace). Free kick crossed right-footed by Paul Ifill(Crystal Palace) from left channel, resulting in ball out of play. Goal kick taken long by Wayne Hennessey(Wolverhampton). 2:46 Foul by Matthew Hill(Wolverhampton) on Nathanial Clyne(Crystal Palace). Free kick crossed left-footed by Clint Hill(Crystal Palace) from right channel, clearance by David Edwards(Wolverhampton). 1:31 Alan Lee(Crystal Palace) caught offside. Indirect free kick taken right-footed by Wayne Hennessey(Wolverhampton) from own half, resulting in open play.
 

back to top