Sports Pundit
Football

Wolves Boost European Hopes as Blades Dream Ends

Wolverhampton Wanderers' Jonny Castro Otto, second left, celebrates with teammates after scoring his team's second goal during the English Premier League soccer match between Wolverhampton Wanderers and Crystal Palace at Molineux Stadium
Wolverhampton Wanderers' Jonny Castro Otto, second left, celebrates with teammates after scoring his team's second goal during the English Premier League soccer match between Wolverhampton Wanderers and Crystal Palace at Molineux Stadium

Wolverhampton boosted their hopes of qualifying for Europe with a strong 2-0 win over Crystal Palace on Tuesday, while newly promoted Sheffield United are confirmed to miss out.

Eighth-placed Sheffield United lost 1-0 at home to Everton, ending their hopes of qualifying for the Europa League following their promotion from the Championship last season in what’s been a dream campaign under Chris Wilder.

One game to play, the Blades are now five points behind sixth-placed Wolverhampton in the final European spot. Wolves are one point ahead of Tottenham in seventh.

Wolves are away to third-placed Chelsea on the final day, while Spurs make the trip across London to Crystal Palace.

Daniel Podence and Jonny Castro scored Wolves’ goals either side of half-time to seal the win which pleased manager Nuno Esprito Santo as they reached their record Premier League points tally.

“The words of building and improving makes sense,” Nuno said.

“Today we made two more points than last season, so we are improving and I’m happy for that. A lot of credit to the players in such a complicated season, with all the issues that happened. The belief of the players is incredible.

“We have a lot of things to go. A tough game on Sunday, finish the Premier League, and then focus on whats coming after.”

Meanwhile down the other end, Brighton confirmed their top flight status with a goalless home draw with Newcastle.

The Seagulls are now seven points clear of 18th placed Aston Villa who have two games to play, starting with Arsenal on Wednesday.