Ward-Prowse free-kick seals West Ham comeback win at Wolves

On Saturday, at the Molineux, James Ward-Prowse’s stunning free-kick in the 84th minute secured a comeback victory for West Ham over Wolverhampton Wanderers. The visitors came from behind to win 2-1, despite an injury to key player Jarrod Bowen just before their crucial UEFA Europa League clash against Bundesliga leaders Bayer Leverkusen.

Wolves had taken the lead in the first half through a Pablo Sarabia penalty, but Lucas Paqueta equalised from the spot in the 72nd minute. Ward-Prowse then produced a moment of magic, curling in directly from a corner to put West Ham ahead. Wolves thought they had levelled in stoppage time, but Maximilian Kilman’s header was ruled out for offside after a VAR review.

The victory moves West Ham level on points with sixth-placed Manchester United in the race for European qualification. However, the potential loss of Bowen to injury will be a major concern for Hammers boss David Moyes ahead of Thursday’s trip to Germany.

West Ham have now taken 19 points from losing positions this season, a demonstration of their resilience. However, this was only their third league win of 2024 so far, highlighting the need for more consistency.

The match also saw Michail Antonio make his 300th appearance for the club, coming off the bench in the second half. Overall, it was a hard-fought but significant win for West Ham, keeping their European ambitions on track despite the mounting injury concerns.