Shropshire Star

Wolves boss Nuno thrilled with 'beautiful' Ruben Neves winner

Wolves boss Nuno Espirito Santo is delighted for Ruben Neves after his 'beautiful' strike sealed a memorable FA Cup victory over Liverpool.

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Nuno Espirito Santo (AMA)

Nuno's side won 2-1 at Molineux, with Neves fantastically finding the net from 25 yards after Divock Origi cancelled out Raul Jimenez's opener.

It is another triumph over a heavy hitter for Wolves, following on from victories over Chelsea and Tottenham in the league earlier this season, and sets up a fourth-round trip to either Shrewsbury or Stoke.

"It's something that Ruben does, and we encourage him to do," said Nuno.

"Last season, we saw it pretty often.

"We know he has this talent. It was a good strike and something he has to do, and improve.

"We are very happy for him. It was an important moment for us, and for the fans.

"It was such a beautiful goal. I think Molineux came alive again and from there on, we were always in control of the game against a tough team, so I'm very proud."

Neves has a history of scoring from long range, with a stunning volley against Derby last campaign being at the top of an illustrious list of goals.

Ruben Neves celebrates his winner (AMA)

Nuno called for Wolves to draw inspiration from the tributes to club legend Bill Slater before kick-off - and they did just that.

A minute's applause was held for Slater, who led Wolves to FA Cup glory in 1960 and died last month aged 91.

"It was a good tribute, special for the fans," said Nuno.

"The minute of applause was fantastic, and we showed our character.

"Wolves fans always respect their legends who did so much.

"It was a special dedication for him, of course.

"We won the game, and we did it well. How we did it was very good, and we have to grow."

Nuno refused to give anything away when asked if Wolves are edging nearer a loan deal for Tammy Abraham.

But he did wax lyrical about their showing against the Reds, who made several changes to their starting line-up but brought on world-class talent Mo Salah in the second half.

"It was a good performance, a tough game. We were compact, organised and we had good counter-attacks," added Nuno.

"It was very good. In general, I think it was a very good game."