Wolves fan column: Old memories remind us of current struggles

Truth be told, visits to Molineux this season have been almost universally excruciating: this feeling of exasperating impotence accelerated still more by the nature of the latest catastrophe against a decidedly ordinary Tottenham outfit.

Their snug fit in the relegation places every bit as self-inflicted and as thoroughly merited as ours.

Almost punch-drunk the overriding emotion right now, accompanied by a fear that the chronology of decline at Wolves might be nearer to its beginning than to its conclusion.

By way of pleasant diversion, it was satisfying to attend a function at the club on behalf of the Wolves Foundation the day before the Spurs' game.

The proceeds from a recent publication celebrating the astonishing contribution of Wath Wanderers, the Yorkshire -based feeder-club contributed over £2,500 to the coffers from which local good causes will reap the benefit.

From the late thirties until 1970, Wath produced 114 youngsters who played professionally with 39 graduates representing the Wolves first-team. Three of those players, all of whom enjoyed wonderful careers, Bob Hatton, Gerry Taylor and Steve Daley were in attendance to share in the nostalgia.

It was fascinating to chat in depth, to Hatton, a much-travelled and prolific striker who began his career at Molineux. He scored on his debut against Mansfield in 1966: the first match Wolves played in the Football League cup.

A month later, on league debut against Portsmouth, he scored within the first minute. In just thirteen appearances, he scored eight goals.

Still a teenager, Hatton admitted to becoming 'impatient' for a regular first-team berth despite boss Ronnie Allen telling him to bide his time.

A few months later, Hatton was called to Allen's office; 'I went in and sitting next to Ron was Derek Dougan. We've accepted a bid from Bolton for you Bob, for £30,000,' said Ron.

'With the other £30,000 banked for transferring Hughie McIlmoyle to Bristol City, I helped to bring The Doog to Molineux. Good business for the club!'

24 hours later, with Wolves so becalmed, I couldn't help speculating just how a rugged, physical goal scoring centre-forward like Bob Hatton would benefit the club.

Enduring game after game of caution with barely a threat on the opposition goal has been one of the most depressing aspects of a dreadfully dire campaign.

Couldn't see Bob, McIlmoyle or The Doog being so squeamish!