The drop looms as what's required to nullify 51 minutes of determined effort is a defender without a goal in 165 games for his teams appearing to score the first goal. It illustrates the harsh truth for Wolverhampton Wanderers now.
Maresca's side's Overwhelming Display
It turned into a one-sided affair once Malo Gusto had set Chelsea on the path to victory by netting the maiden professional strike of his career. Subsequent scores from Pedro Neto and another Chelsea attacker added a more appropriate look to the final result.
The London club, who moved into the runner-up position, were dominant. They needed time to get going but pulled away once the Frenchman had calmed the situation.
Wolves' Difficulties
Early on displayed fight from Wolves at first. They were led by their academy boss, the interim boss, who has stepped into the breach since the exit of Vítor Pereira, and they frustrated the home side during a disappointing initial stages.
In the end, though, there is a justification why Wanderers are stuck at the foot of the table. There is simply not enough to them. They cannot defend, pose minimal offensive danger and continue to be winless after their initial 11 matches.
Match Unfolding
The visitors had looked like vulnerable opponents. Maresca's men flew at them from the start and made numerous opportunities.
There was minimal suggestion of the London club being affected by tiredness after their 5,000-mile journey to Eastern Europe.
The nervousness dissipated, the home side advanced. the replacement player came on for the unproductive Delap and made an quick effect.
Final Phase
Wolves collapsed. the attacker, extremely effective in quick breaks, dashed down the left flank and sent the ball for the Portuguese to convert against his previous team, leaving the home side to experience the rarity of an emphatic victory at their stadium in the league.
