John Stones strikes at the death as Manchester City beat Wolves
John Stones scored a last-gasp header, which was subject to a dramatic VAR call, to earn Manchester City a 2-1 win at Wolves.
City looked like failing to capitalise on Arsenal’s slip-up at Bournemouth as they were being held after Jorgen Strand Larsen’s early opener for the dogged hosts was cancelled out by Josko Gvardiol.
But Stones climbed highest in the fourth minute of added time to power home Phil Foden’s corner and spark wild scenes of celebration.
They were cut short after Bernardo Silva was eventually flagged for offside as he stood in front of goalkeeper Jose Sa, much to the delight of the Molineux crowd.
#WOLMCI – 95’ VAR OVERTURN
Stones’ goal was disallowed on-field due to Bernardo Silva being in an offside position and in the goalkeeper’s line of vision. The VAR deemed Bernardo Silva wasn’t in the line of vision and had no impact on the goalkeeper and recommended an on-field… pic.twitter.com/4o1AHBWyzb
— Premier League Match Centre (@PLMatchCentre) October 20, 2024
However, after referee Chris Kavanagh checked the pitchside monitor he ruled that a backtracking Silva was not interfering with play and the goal stood.
It was a get out of jail free card for City, who were well below their best, but they moved three points clear of the Gunners.
For Wolves it was heartbreak and not what they deserved after a good performance, but they have claimed just one point from the opening eight games.
Boss Gary O’Neil has always said there has been context behind their poor start, however he knows results have to arrive soon.
The hosts could not have dreamed for a better start as they went ahead in the seventh minute.
After beating the City press, Nelson Semedo was set free down the right and his excellent cross bisected