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This loss marks one more humiliating episode in a troubled season for West Ham, increasing serious questions about the prospects of their manager. The London club had the misfortune of becoming the first team to fall to Wolves this term, allowing the Midlands outfit to double their league points and boost their hopes of evading a place in the record books as the least successful team in Premier League history.

Commanding Opening Display Seals Historic Victory

Within the first four minutes into the match, Wolves were able to give the impression of finding some confidence. The energetic Hwang Hee-chan offered a taste of his rejuvenated abilities with a lengthy run before turning provider thanks to sharp link-up play with Mateus Mané. His pull-back found an untracked Jhon Arias, who slid home from point-blank range to give Wolves a home lead for the first time since early October. Energy could be felt both on the field and in the terraces, a rarity for much of the term.

Facing a side terribly short on confidence and missing creative talent Lucas Paquetá due to injury, this represented the hosts' best opportunity for a victory to date. Initially confused by taking the lead, Wolves opted to defend it fiercely, dropping back with all men behind the ball early on.

Compliant Opponents Add to West Ham's Miseries

West Ham were generous guests, contributing to their own downfall. First, former Wolves captain Max Kilman was unable to make a simple clearance from a cross, letting Mané to pounce, before being brought down by Soungoutou Magassa in the penalty area. The teenage midfielder, formerly of Rochdale, was proving the most influential figure on the pitch. Hwang stepped up to score the subsequent spot-kick, extending the lead. Ironic chants of "We're going to win the league" echoed around Molineux.

Short on confidence and ideas, West Ham were drifting out of the game even with dominating the ball, managing just a single attempt in the opening period.

The visitors' frustrations deepened just prior to halftime. The fearless Mané, a youth among trepidatious adults, spun beautifully, cut in from the left flank, and fired a low effort into the far corner from outside the box for his first senior goal. At last, the Wolves supporters could enjoy themselves.

Fruitless Second-Half Response

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

A persistent sense of nervousness continued to clouded Wolves' decision-making, unsure whether to clear the ball to safety or build from the back. But, they need not have been concerned against such passive resistance. West Ham's own failings became painfully obvious as they produced very little of note in the attacking areas.

Crucial Fixtures Lie Ahead

In the end, Wolves were the sole side capable of increasing the tally, and West Ham will be thankful the embarrassment was not more severe. Focus now shifts to a critical midweek fixture at home to 17th-placed Nottingham Forest, a match essential in the fight for top-flight survival. Based on this showing, the Hammers have every reason to be very worried.