Stout hearts driving on shattered limbs in defence of Geordie honour on a filthy Molineux night made certain Newcastle were not to suffer an undeserved defeat in a confrontation when they were never behind.

A pulsating game saw 12 players – yes, only one sub used – defy a shedload of injuries and Sandro Tonali’s suspension to make their point.

Such is the cruel hand currently dealt Newcastle that the bench was stripped bare to include two goalkeepers and five full-backs in the nine allowed.

The platform for what the Magpies achieved was built in the first-half when I must say ta to Sa and VAR for their help. Don’t get me wrong, United were lively and inventive while legs were relatively fresh but under dire circumstances any leg up is thankfully received and on the goals it was so.

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United’s first: Sa dropped a clanger and VAR agreed. The keeper merely ran into traffic, spilled a ball he ought to have held, and Callum Wilson notched with an overhead finish. A goal all day long.

United’s second: VAR agreed it was a penalty, highly controversial or not, and Sa got a hand to Wilson’s kick but not a strong enough one. Much gratitude to all concerned.

Wilson has taken most of the Geordie plaudits because of his double strike and unbelievable goal ratio this year but overall the silky style, reliability, and all round performance of Fabian Schar was a class above. By far the best of the back or anywhere else for that matter.

Wilson’s two goals had the greatest impact and that counts for an awful lot but his all-round game was more influential than sensational. It was also significant that Sean Longstaff returned to his best after physically being under the weather.

However a relentless fixture list caught up with some previously consistent performers against a rested team. None more so than full-backs Kieran Trippier and Dan Burn. A quick Wolves tortured Newcastle down both flanks while in addition Trippier, normally so effective with his passing and assists, was strangely sloppy in possession. He gave the ball away with alarming consistency.

Burn has certain important assets but pace is most certainly not one of them and therefore Burn will more often than not get burned out wide.

Both were booked as they laboured and, frankly, I was surprised Eddie Howe allowed them to finish the game given United had FIVE full-backs on a lopsided bench. Changes could not be made elsewhere further upfield but surely they could here. The Magpies paid big money in the summer for Tino Livramento and Lewis Hall who never got a sniff while Matt Targett was another who

So much faith was shown in Livramento and Hall despite their young age that they were recruited in the last window when more pressing signings who could make an instant impact were probably required. Surely that financial backing will lead to a Carabao Cup inclusion at Manchester United when both Trippier and Burn would benefit from a much needed rest. The likes of Joe Willock and Paul Dummett could also be called to arms.

Up top is where Howe has no wiggle room whatsoever. If United’s manager wants to give goal hero Wilson a breather he normally requires, especially with Arsenal next up, then it would mean either Joelinton reverting to his old job or Anthony Gordon switching to a false nine.

But then who goes into their original positions? It is a conundrum which will occupy Eddie’s mind at bed time rather than counting sheep. Staying awake tossing over all possibilities is more likely than sleeping with the contentment of a baby.