Wolves blog: The cup dream is on

The famous cup has given Wolves plenty of cheer over recent seasons, with famous victories against Stoke and Liverpool (twice) reigniting passion among the Molineux faithful after some drab ties.

Should Wolves navigate their next two cup ties against lower league opposition in Shrewsbury and Bristol City, only three teams above them in the league - at most - would still be in the hat.

Certainly, we should take nothing for granted after Spurs, Everton and West Ham were dumped out of the cup in the Fourth Round, joining ten other failed top flight teams.

Chelsea being drawn against Man United is a huge stroke of luck, as only one of them can progress to the last eight.

The game against League One Shrewsbury on the weekend, though, was largely poor. Despite Nuno naming a strong enough squad to win the game comfortably, Wolves struggled in what was a drab first half.

The ball was bouncing all over the pitch on what was a poor surface compared to the luxurious Premier League turf they are used to.

Without Raul Jimenez, none of Wolves’ moves tie together properly. He is absolutely vital to this team and it showed, with him scoring the first of Wolves’ comeback goals.

Adama Traore was trying without much success in the first half - any time he got the ball he was harried and fouled by at least one opponent.

He deserved his assist at the end of the game in what was an impressive cross after moving to the right side.

His partner up front, Helder Costa, appears a shadow of his former self at the moment - what has happened to him? He struggled to have any impact on the game again, although he is much better when played out wide.

The last time we played lower league opposition in the cup we lost to non-league Luton 1-0 - and Stale Solbakken lost his job.

Another loss appeared to be inevitable, so to come from two goals down and get a result shows great character, whoever you are playing.

Clean sheets have gone out of the window for Wolves for a good while - it’s a good job we are now able to score a few goals at the other end.

John Ruddy will be pleased his season isn’t over prematurely, after letting a goal in over the top of his head, albeit a powerfully hit shot.

Wolves do love a late goal at the moment, and both Jimenez and Matt Doherty played very well and deserved their goals - and we are still in the tournament.

If we had eleven Dohertys on the pitch we would be a superb outfit - he has a great knack of scoring and has unreal stamina (he’s even had a go in goal before!)

Wolves’ replay means the sentimental return of Dave Edwards is on the cards - but with a favourable path to the last eight, Wolves really must ensure they are one hundred percent switched on.