Koreans in Europe: Hwang makes it six as Wolves draw with Newcastle

Wolverhampton Wanderers' Hwang Hee-chan celebrates after scoring their second goal during a Premier League match against Newcastle United at the Molineux in Wolverhampton, England on Saturday. [AFP/YONHAP]

Hwang Hee-chan was both hero and villain — although perhaps spuriously — as Wolverhampton Wanderers drew 2-2 with Newcastle United at home on Saturday.

Wolves came from behind twice on Saturday, conceding first in the 22nd minute to Callum Wilson only for Mario Lemina to tie things up again in the 36th minute.

The second Newcastle goal came from a penalty in stoppage time at the end of the first half, with Hwang apparently responsible for clipping Fabian Schär in the box. VAR upheld the penalty after a very long wait, despite the replays in the stadium appearing to show Hwang kicking the ground and the commentators struggling to find any cause for punishment.

The Bull redeemed himself in the 71st minute, weaving through the defense to slam home yet another equalizer and force the draw.

“After I gave them a penalty I felt so sad so I really wanted to do something for my team,” said Hwang, whose still-developing English has left him with a knack for understatement.

In fact, Hwang has already done more for his team than practically any player in years. With six goals so far this season, Hwang has not only tallied more at home than any other Premier League player — five at Molineux — but has already tied Wolves’ top scorers for the last three campaigns.

BY JIM BULLEY [jim.bulley@joongang.co.kr]