Wolves players today appealed to the Molineux boo boys to lay off Andy Keogh.

Both Chris Iwelumo and Matt Jarvis backed Keogh to ride the latest fans’ storm.

The four-goal Irish forward was booed and then immediately substituted after opting to head a chance across goal rather than go for the net in last night’s 3-3 draw against Norwich.

Keogh’s confidence seemed fragile after failing to shoot prior to that before missing a header to trigger the latest abuse, which came despite Wolves extending their lead at the top to five points.

Iwelumo and Jarvis believe the treatment of the 22-year-old is unfair, but said he’s strong enough to deal with the criticism.

Iwelumo said: “I don’t understand it personally. He works his socks off, and he was awesome last night and he knows all the boys feel that about him. He’s a strong character who will get on with it.

“It would be nice if the fans could support every single player. If they do, we’re only going to benefit from that.”

Jarvis said: “He shouldn’t have to get that (treatment).I’m just disappointed for Keogh because he works extremely hard and he did really well last night. He’s not doing anything else but trying his best.”

Boss Mick McCarthy insisted: “Keogh will still be a big player for us.

“Andy’s different class – he plays his part and works his shift.”

McCarthy was tempted to leave Keogh on to ride the abuse, but admitted it wasn’t right.

“I nearly left him on because of the reaction!” said the boss.

“I took him off because I had Kyel Reid warming up and I wanted two wingers on.””

McCarthy insists Wolves fans need to realise the promotion race will go to the “bitter end”.

But the draw was widely seen as two points dropped after Wolves twice led as Sylvan Ebanks-Blake took his tally to 20 with his first hat-trick.

“Let’s not kid ourselves – we’re not just going to run away with this,” said boss McCarthy.

“My mantra hasn’t changed – it will be a scrap to the bitter end. So let’s get used to the fact.”

By TIM NASH