Tommy Doyle has called for Wolverhampton Wanderers to make their Black Country derby performance the standard. The midfielder said the intensity and control shown in Sunday's 1-0 win over West Brom at Molineux must be the team's blueprint moving forward.

Fer López scored the decisive goal five minutes into the second half, his fourth of the season in seven appearances. The victory lifted Wolves to fourth in the Championship table ahead of the international break, a position they will aim to consolidate when they travel to face Middlesbrough on 10 October.

Setting the standard

Doyle, who came off the bench in the derby, stressed that the manner of the win was as important as the result. He pointed to the team's collective effort, high pressing, and composure on the ball as the foundations for success. "It was a perfect day, really," Doyle said. "I thought we played well. The lads who started, the lads who came on - everyone had an impact, which is a good thing and the better team won."

He emphasised that the squad's depth provided key calmness during the emotionally charged fixture, allowing them to see the game out professionally. For Doyle, the only priority is securing three points, regardless of how they arrive. "The most important thing for me is winning, we have to win," he stated. "If I score, if somebody else scores, it’s no problem for me. We have to win the game."

Building on the result

The win provided a vital boost after a mixed run of form, with Wolves' last five results reading one win, one draw, and three defeats. They were also without the injured Raúl Jiménez, with Adam Armstrong leading the line in his absence. The squad is now fully aware of what is required, with manager Cesar Peixoto having used videos around the training ground to underline the derby's significance to all players, including those new to English football.

Doyle, whose grandfathers played for Manchester City against Wolves in the 1974 League Cup final, understands the fixture's history. He believes the key to replicating the performance is to treat every game with the same focused determination. The team's next challenge is to turn their recent form around, starting with the trip to the Riverside Stadium. The current standings show Wolves in a promising position to push on.

Background and full detail: Shropshire Star