Daijiworld Media Network – Manchester
Manchester, Dec 9: Bruno Fernandes delivered a stellar performance with two goals and an assist as Manchester United outclassed Wolverhampton Wanderers 4-1, climbing into the Premier League’s top six on Monday.
United struck early through Fernandes, who capitalised on a midfield error and beat keeper Sam Johnstone despite slipping inside the box. Wolves, struggling at the bottom of the table, equalised against the run of play on the stroke of half-time when Jean-Ricner Bellegarde smashed home David Moller Wolfe’s cross — ending their long league goal drought dating back to October 26.
Ruben Amorim’s United stepped up after the break, unleashing a dominant second-half display. Bryan Mbeumo restored the lead in the 51st minute, finishing a swift counterattack from Diogo Dalot’s pass. Mason Mount added a third with a composed strike from Fernandes’ chipped assist, before the United captain sealed the win with an 82nd-minute penalty.
The defeat marked Wolves' eighth consecutive loss, leaving them anchored to the bottom with just two points — eight behind 19th-placed Burnley. Thousands of Wolves fans staged a 15-minute boycott at kickoff in protest against the club’s Chinese owners, Fosun International.
Wolves coach Rob Edwards admitted his side had contributed to its downfall. “In the big moments, we insisted on giving the ball back to them. We’re getting punished and need to improve — but it won’t be a quick turnaround,” he said.
Mount praised United’s response after a sloppy end to the first half. “The gaffer spoke at half time, and the onus was on us to be ruthless. We’ve got the three points but we can’t stop now,” he said.
United now sit level on 25 points with fifth-placed Chelsea, signalling a much-needed boost amid an inconsistent season.