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This latest defeat marks one more embarrassing episode in a difficult season for West Ham, raising significant doubts about the future of their manager. The Hammers had the misfortune of becoming the first team to succumb to Wolves in this campaign, enabling the West Midlands team to double their points tally and boost their aspirations of avoiding the tag in the record books as the worst team in Premier League history.

Dominant First-Half Performance Seals Long-Awaited Victory

Fewer than four minutes into the match, Wolves were able to show signs of finding much-needed resolve. The energetic Hwang Hee-chan provided a glimpse of his revitalised form with a long run before turning provider thanks to neat combination play with Mateus Mané. The resulting pull-back found an unmarked Jhon Arias, who slid home from point-blank range to give Wolves a home lead for the first time since October. Energy was evident equally on the field and in the terraces, a sight for much of the season.

Facing a team woefully short on confidence and deprived of creative talent Lucas Paquetá through injury, this represented the home side's clearest opportunity for a win this season. Initially confused by being ahead, Wolves opted to defend it doggedly, dropping deep with all players behind the ball from an early stage.

Compliant Guests Add to West Ham's Problems

West Ham proved generous guests, adding to their own demise. First, former Wolves captain Max Kilman was unable to execute a simple clearance from a cross, letting Mané to intervene, before being fouled by Soungoutou Magassa in the box. The 18-year-old player, once of Rochdale, was proving the most influential man on the field. Hwang stepped up to convert the resulting spot-kick, extending the advantage. Ironic chants of "We will win the league" rang around Molineux.

Lacking belief and ideas, West Ham were drifting out of the contest despite controlling the ball, registering just a single shot in the opening period.

The away side's woes were compounded shortly before halftime. The confident Mané, a youth among trepidatious adults, spun beautifully, drove infield from the left, and fired a low shot into the bottom corner from 18 yards for his maiden senior goal. Finally, the Wolves supporters were enjoying themselves.

Fruitless Second-Half Comeback Attempt

With little to lose, manager Nuno made a double change at half-time and altered to a offensive 3-4-3 formation. However, star forward Jarrod Bowen remained muted, and the introduction of Crysencio Summerville did not provide the required threat.

A lingering sense of anxiety still affected Wolves' decision-making, uncertain whether to clear the ball long or build patiently. However, they had no need to been concerned against such meek opponents. West Ham's inherent failings became painfully apparent as they created very little of note in the final third.

Crucial Matches Lie Ahead

Ultimately, Wolves were the only side likely of adding to the tally, and West Ham will be relieved the embarrassment was not more severe. Focus now shifts to a pivotal midweek fixture at home to relegation-threatened Nottingham Forest, a match vital in the fight for top-flight survival. On this showing, the Hammers have cause to be afraid.