Wolves were dominant throughout at Montgomery Waters Meadow, but they had to do it the hard way. After going a goal down on 76 minutes, skipper Joe Hodge popped up with a brace to avoid a penalty shootout and ensure the points went the way of the old gold. The midfielder’s display earned high praise from the head coach who once again pinpointed the spirit and drive of his players to overcome adversity.
On battling back from a goal down
“I thought we dominated throughout the game, created the best chances and should’ve put the game to bed.
“However, when you come to Football League clubs, they stick at it and keep going. They took their goal very well and that then was a real test of our character.
“You can feel sorry for yourself, but we showed real spirit and drive. We kept going and got the two goals that we deserved to win the game.
“I’m really pleased with the performance and really pleased with the result. I would’ve liked a little bit more quality in the final third at times throughout the night, but we’ll keep working on that.
“One in five under-21 teams win games in this competition so every win you get is hard-fought, so we’re delighted.”
On Joe Hodge’s performance
“Joe is an excellent player and if he hadn’t had an injury when he first came, he probably wouldn’t be with us – he’d be out on loan playing in the league.
“He’s got an unbelievable attitude, a great drive and good quality. Most of all, he’s a winner.
“I thought he picked the game up by the scruff of the neck throughout the game, but especially when we went 1-0 down.
“It was almost like he wasn’t willing to allow them to win that game because he felt we should win it.
“For him to get the goals that his drive and determination deserved is a good lesson for all the other boys in there.”
HE'S DONE IT AGAIN! pic.twitter.com/2f5ECjXJex
— Wolves Academy (@WolvesAcademy) August 30, 2022
On progress made in recent weeks
“Since the first game against Chelsea, which was a poor result, the performances have been good. We had two wins and then we went to Palace, and I thought we were outstanding for the majority of the game.
“We were really unfortunate to lose that game after having Nathan (Fraser) sent off early in the second half.
“It’s been a pleasing response to the first week, but we’ve got to keep getting better at the work we’re doing and become ruthless when we get into the final third.
“Our football’s been good, and I think we’ve got much better at our security behind the ball.
“We’ve got a few square pegs in there, but they’re doing a good job and if we show a little bit more quality in that final third then the results will be even better.”
