Palace came into the contest looking to record three consecutive PL clean sheets for the first time this season, but hopes of another shutout were extinguished in just three minutes.
Sam Johnstone thought that he had dealt with the Wolves’ threat when he pushed Diego Costa’s deflected strike around the post, but the hosts managed to take an early lead from the resulting corner. Ruben Neves’ dangerous delivery bounced off the helpless Joachim Andersen, who inadvertently diverted the ball into his own net.
After taking their time to grow into the contest, Palace went close to finding an equaliser on the stroke of half-time. A neat move culminated in Will Hughes laying the ball into the path for Albert Sambi Lokonga to fire towards goal where Jose Sa was on hand to pull off a smart reaction save.
The visitors enjoyed large spells of possession after the break, but it was the hosts who had the first meaningful chance of the second period.
Hugo Bueno’s out-swinging corner found the near-post run of Craig Dawson, who was unable to direct his header on target. Eberechi Eze, who scored a brace in Palace’s most recent away game, looked to be the visitors’ best hope of an equaliser, as he produced a dipping effort that was tipped over by an outstretched Sá.
As it proved, Wolves were presented with the chance to double their advantage in stoppage time when Johnstone scythed down Pedro Neto in the penalty area. Neves assumed responsibility to slot the ball into the bottom corner, wrapping up a win that moves the hosts level on 37 points with Palace, ensuring the two sides finish the day nine points clear of the drop zone.
Flashscore Man of the Match: Ruben Neves (Wolves)
