McCarthy delighted for Kyle

Wolves boss Mick McCarthy was delighted for striker Kevin Kyle after he notched his first goal for the Molineux men - and helped set the seal on a crucial 2-0 victory at Selhurst Park.

The Molineux chief dismissed talk of being "vindicated" in his decision to sign Kyle, but did admit he was happy for the striker - who he believed was booed by a small section of fans after the Cup defeat at Cardiff.

"I don't look for vindication because when I make decisions it's based on my knowledge of players and individuals and what they can bring to the club.

"I didn't think for one minute that's what he would bring to the club, hitting 30-yard volleys over his shoulder and into the bottom corner.

"All the other stuff he did in terms of coming in and being a handful and making it hard for defenders in a 10 to 15 minute slot is what he's all about.

"And at the same time he's better than that - which is what I think has annoyed him a little bit throughout his career. He's got real ability and that volleyed goal shows he's got ability.

"I was thrilled for him because there were one or two boos around the place last weeked and I love it for the players.

"It means so much to them to be accepted and that will help him, no doubt."

The Wolves boss was also delighted with Michael Gray's superb opener, which gave the Molineux men the springboard to complete their first win in five games.

McCarthy felt it was about time Wolves had enjoyed the rub of the green - and saw the victory as just reward for a decent show.

"We've not enjoyed that level of ability or fantastic strikes too often and it was nice to see. I thought we played well," he said.

"Michael Gray is capable of playing on the left wing and I was pleased with his all-round performance.

"He actually scored from the right wing because he'd swopped with Stephen Elliott. It was a great strike."