New Wolverhampton Wanderers manager Rob Edwards experienced a bitter start to his tenure, witnessing his side fall to a 2-0 defeat against a clinical Crystal Palace at Molineux. The match, played on Saturday 22 November 2025, was decided in a devastating six-minute spell in the second half that left the home side rooted in the relegation mire.
Palace Pounce in Clinical Second-Half Blitz
The first half saw the visitors create the better opportunities, with Jean-Philippe Mateta failing to convert a clear one-on-one chance. Wolves held firm until the 63rd minute, when the deadlock was broken. The ball fell favourably for Daniel Munoz inside the penalty area, and the defender made no mistake, calmly slotting the ball home to give Palace a deserved lead.
The Wolves players visibly deflated after the goal, and Palace capitalised on their fragility just six minutes later. Yeremy Pino produced a moment of pure quality, unleashing a stunning strike from outside the box that flew into the top right corner via the underside of the crossbar. The goal marked Pino's first in the Premier League and effectively sealed the three points for the Eagles.
Edwards Seeks Positives Amid 'Ruthless' Reality
Speaking after the final whistle, a reflective Rob Edwards acknowledged his team was punished at critical moments. "Result is disappointing," he stated. "Second half we were stronger but got punished with those moments and that's a reason why we're here."
Despite the loss, the new boss was keen to highlight some improvements. "I haven't got a magic wand but what I have seen, we did win more duels, sprint more – improvements there, but haven't got the result to back that up," Edwards explained. He emphasised the unforgiving nature of the top flight, adding, "The Premier League is ruthless and we got punished with some moments."
In a show of appreciation, Edwards made a point of thanking the home supporters after the match, acknowledging their frustration but praising their incredible support. He vowed to "work hard to get them with us" ahead of the next fixture.
League Standings and Glasner's Verdict
The victory provides a significant boost for Crystal Palace, propelling them into the Premier League's top four. For Wolves, the picture is bleak; the defeat leaves them nine points from safety, a gap that new manager Edwards must urgently address.
Palace manager Oliver Glasner praised his team's professionalism in a difficult atmosphere. "It was hard work, especially with the new manager, enthusiasm in the beginning," he said. Glasner reserved special praise for Pino's "amazing finish" and credited his players for sticking to the plan and securing a crucial first win after the international break.
