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What an incredible debut for WOLT!
In under thirty minutes, Nick Woltemade showcased that Newcastle can thrive post-Alexander Isak, quickly becoming a fan favorite.
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The Toon’s record £69 million signing kicked off his Newcastle journey with a stunning debut, helping the Magpies claim their first victory of the season.
On the flip side, Wolves found themselves in a precarious position, unable to convert their opportunities.
Vitor Pereira’s squad currently sits at the bottom of the table, struggling to gather any points as pressure mounts on the Portuguese manager.
While challenges loom for Molineux, Tyneside rejoices as Eddie Howe’s team gets its season underway.
The night could not have unfolded better for the Newcastle manager and his imposing new signing from Stuttgart.
The atmosphere was reminiscent of when Isak first wore the Newcastle colors.
Jacob Murphy, the assist maestro, delivered a perfect cross, allowing Woltemade to leap above Emmanuel Agbadou and head it in from just six yards, igniting a celebration at St. James’ Park.
This was a dream come true for the 23-year-old, and it was hard not to feel a tinge of sympathy for Howe, given his challenging summer in the transfer market.
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Despite investing a whopping £124 million in Woltemade and Yoane Wissa to fill the gap left by Isak after a disappointing chase for several forwards, the struggles continued this week as Wissa’s debut was postponed due to a knee injury sustained while on international duty with DR Congo.
These circumstances only heightened expectations for Woltemade, who rose to the occasion.
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However, Wolves nearly seized the moment just eight seconds into the match, with Rodrigo Gomes’ shot brilliantly saved by Nick Pope.
Shortly after, Pope denied a potential goal from Hwang Hee-Chan.
The hosts had a shaky start, and aside from a curling attempt from Murphy going wide, struggled to impose themselves on the visitors.
While pre-match chatter centered on Woltemade, Wolves introduced their own debut giant.
Nigerian powerhouse Tolu Arokodare, also at 6ft 6in, made his first start following a £24 million transfer from Genk.
However, despite engaging in some notable duels with Geordie giant Dan Burn, he was largely ineffective during his 66 minutes, with Fabian Schar foiling his best chance with a commendable sliding tackle.
Pereira is urgently seeking solutions to address his team’s dreadful start in front of goal.
His frustration was palpable when attacker Hee-Chan chose a long-range shot instead of passing to the unmarked South Korean.
At least goalkeeper Sam Johnstone was in fine form, expertly denying Murphy from close range, but Wolves still created chances, as Rodrigo Gomes nodded Hugo Bueno’s cross wide.
Then came the pivotal moment for Woltemade. The instant he leaped, it was evident where the ball was destined to land.
The roar from the crowd was deafening. Welcome to Newcastle.
Murphy sent another attempt wide, while Tonali regretted a strike that hit the inside of the post and bounced away.
The first half was exhilarating, but the second half lacked action.
Harvey Barnes had a better opportunity fourteen miles away at the Stadium of Light than he did at Gallowgate with the only real chance.
Yet, Howe and the Toon Army will not mind the lack of flair; what mattered most was the outcome.
Woltemade received a standing ovation when substituted in the 65th minute, and the Magpies are gearing up for their upcoming match against Barcelona midweek.
As for Pereira, it’s back to strategizing as he seeks to reverse their dismal home form against Leeds next weekend.
