On a scorching day in the West Midlands, Wolverhampton Wanderers and Fulham played out a game that will not live long in the memory of those in attendance. 

In a game of few chances, Jose Sa's penalty save proved crucial. The Portuguese goalkeeper prevented Aleksandar Mitrovic from giving Fulham a late lead, earning a point for his side. 

Both sides will feel that they could have taken all three points from the game. Here are four things that we learned on Saturday. 

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  • Wolves need to take more risks

An issue that was also present in defeat at Elland Road, Wolves have fallen into the trap of playing safe football. With Bruno Lage adapting his system for the new season, the desired offensive changes have not yet come to fruition.

With 60% of the ball on Saturday, Wolves played football that was often pleasing to the eye, but yet failed to create many clear-cut chances. Both Pedro Neto and Hwang Hee-Chan tested Marek Rodak early on, with the Fulham keeper not making another save all game. Morgan Gibbs-White had Wolves' best chance of the game, but the youngster fired over from six-yards out. 

The return of Raul Jimenez cannot come soon enough for a Wolves side devoid of a physical presence in attack. Jimenez is adept at linking the attacking play, as well as having the willingness to unleash shots at goal. 

  • Fulham cannot be reliant on Mitrovic

Aleksandar Mitrovic failed to convert his penalty on Saturday, meaning his side could not take home all three points. The Serbian international had a tough afternoon at Molineux, with very little chances falling his way from open play. 

Both Max Kilman and Nathan Collins marshalled Mitrovic, forcing the striker to drop deep in order to receive the ball. With their star man struggling to get a hold of the game, Fulham failed to pose any significant threat elsewhere on the pitch. Neeskens Kebano had the better of Jonny on multiple occasions, but could not create any noteworthy chances. 

If Fulham are to avoid relegation this season, they will have to develop and seek goals from their midfielders and wingers. Although Mitrovic did show his worth with an opening day brace against Liverpool, it is tough to replicate that form over a 38-game season.

  • Nathan Collins is key to Wolves' success

The loan departure of Conor Coady has raised eyebrows among rival fans, with Wolves dispensing of their captain after seven years at the club. Nathan Collins' arrival has seemingly put all talk to bed, with a dominant performance on his home debut. 

The Irishman, signed from Burnley last month, put in an impressive display both with and without the ball. Up against tough opposition in Mitrovic, Collins rarely put a foot wrong, showing confidence in his ability. 

Collins is arguably Wolves most important defender, having played in a back four last season. Lage will be looking for the 21-year-old to assist Max Kilman in transitioning into a new formation, with Kilman having never played in the middle of a four-man defence. 

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  • Fulham's midfield duo provide stability 

Marco Silva will be hoping his Fulham side will be show greater defensive security than in previous Premier League seasons. The Whites have conceded in their last two top-flight campaigns, but this season comes with more promise for the Craven Cottage faithful. 

New signing Joao Palhinha will undoubtedly receive plaudits for his midfield work. The Portuguese international put in a tidy performance in the West Midlands, breaking up Wolves attacks before they reached the Fulham back line. 

Despite Palhinha's positive impact, midfield partner Harrison Reed quietly went about his business. Joining Palhinha in disrupting the opposition, Reed was central to Fulham's play when in possession. The pair seem to have gelled together nicely, and after just two games, supporters will see them as their key to defensive solidity.