The Owls moved within three points of League One leaders Plymouth Argyle courtesy of the former Cardiff midfielder’s 13th-minute rocket – as the league leaders were held to a 1-1 draw by Ipswich Town.

Wednesday are now 18 games unbeaten in all competitions, but there is concern for Reece James and George Byers who were both stretchered off.

Meanwhile Wycombe still lie two points off sixth-place Barnsley who lost at Charlton. The hosts were beginning to exert themselves in the opening stages when Vaulks picked up the ball 30 yards from goal.

DERBY, ENGLAND - DECEMBER 03: Sheffield Wednesday manager Darren Moore during the Sky Bet League One between Derby County and Sheffield Wednesday at Pride Park Stadium on December 03, 2022 in Derby, England. (Photo by Gareth Copley/Getty Images)

The travelling supporters urged the Welshman to shoot and Vaulks unleashed an unstoppable thunderbolt into the top corner. An unmarked Callum Paterson should have made it two in the 32nd minute, but his back-post volley was brilliantly saved by Max Stryjek.

Wednesday continued to threaten five minutes after the restart, Josh Windass’ wicked free-kick from wide cleared off the line. Wycombe pushed for the equaliser but struggled to create anything meaningful.

Will Vaulks scores wonder goal against Wycombe to boost Sheffield Wednesday's promotion bid