Brighton and Wolves played out a goalless draw, with Matheus Cunha and Joao Pedro missing opportunities, as both teams solidify their positions in the middle of the Premier League standings.
Wolverhampton Wanderers players were seen appealing to match referee Craig Pawson following the half-time whistle during their Premier League match against Brighton & Hove Albion at the American Express Community Stadium on January 22, 2024. The match ended in a frustrating 0-0 draw for Brighton, as Wolves put up a strong defensive performance.
Brighton dominated possession throughout the game but struggled to create clear-cut chances. The closest they came to scoring was when Facundo Buonanotte’s awkward header tested the Wolves’ defense in the first half. However, they were toothless at times and their best opportunity came when Max Kilman accidentally bundled a cross against his own post in the second half.
As the game progressed, Wolves grew as a threat on the counter-attack. Matheus Cunha had their best opportunity but fired over at the second attempt. Gary O’Neil’s team defended superbly and had several good late breaks that could have resulted in a win. However, Cunha missed from a tight angle and Pedro Neto’s mazy runs came to nothing.
The result sees Brighton move up to seventh place, above Manchester United on goal difference, while Wolves are three points behind in 11th place. Brighton will now shift their focus to an FA Cup fourth-round encounter against Sheffield United, while Wolves will face West Brom in the same competition.
The match was not one that will be remembered for its excitement, but Wolves impressed with their hard work and solid defense. Neto’s return from injury was a huge boost for the team, and he created several good situations for his teammates. However, they failed to capitalize on those opportunities.
Craig Dawson of Wolves was named the player of the match. While Neto was a joy to watch and a real menace at times, Dawson’s defensive performance was outstanding. He blocked, intercepted, and protected their goal with great hunger.
Player ratings for the match were as follows:
BRIGHTON:
– Steele 7
– Hinshelwood 7
– Dunk 7
– Van Hecke 7
– Estupinan 7
– Gross 7
– Gilmour 7
– Milner 7
– Buonanotte 6
– Welbeck 6
– Pedro 6
Subs:
– Ferguson 6
– Lamptey 6
– Webster 6
– Lallana 6
– Baker-Boaitey n/a
WOLVES:
– Sa 6
– Kilman 7
– Dawson 8*
– Toti 8
– Semedo 8
– Doyle 8
– Lemina 7
– Doherty 7
– Sarabia 6
– Cunha 6
– Neto 8
Subs:
– Bellegarde 6
– Chirewa n/a
Here are the match highlights:
– 12′ – Brighton had a chance as Estupinan delivered a dangerous corner. It was flicked on by Welbeck, but Buonanotte failed to convert at the far post and Tommy Doyle cleared it off the line.
– 46′ – Wolves had a chance as Cunha fired over at the second attempt after Steele had blocked his first shot from Neto’s run and pass.
– 53′ – Brighton had another chance as Hinshelwood led a break down the right and his low cut-back was slid against his own post by Kilman. Wolves were lucky to escape.
– 79′ – Wolves had a chance as Cunha fired well wide from a tight angle on the right wing after racing after Neto’s pass and touching the ball around keeper Steele.
– 81′ – Wolves had another chance as Steele made a fine save to beat away Lemina’s effort after a quick counter-attack.
Overall, it was a night where Brighton struggled to find their shooting boots, and Wolves impressed with their defensive display.