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This latest defeat represents another humiliating episode in a torrid season for West Ham, increasing serious doubts about the prospects of their manager. The Hammers became the first team to succumb to Wolves in this campaign, enabling the West Midlands side to increase their points tally and lift their hopes of avoiding the tag in the history books as the worst team in Premier League annals.

Commanding Opening Display Seals Long-Awaited Victory

Fewer than four minutes into the match, Wolves managed to give the impression of discovering much-needed resolve. The energetic Hwang Hee-chan offered a taste of his rejuvenated form with a long run before laying on an assist thanks to neat link-up play with Mateus Mané. The resulting cut-back found an untracked Jhon Arias, who tapped in from close range to give Wolves a lead at Molineux for the first time since early October. Energy could be felt equally on the field and in the terraces, a rarity for most of the term.

Facing a team terribly out of form and deprived of key player Lucas Paquetá due to injury, this was the hosts' best opportunity for a victory this season. At first unnerved by taking the lead, Wolves chose to defend it fiercely, falling back with all men behind the ball early on.

Compliant Guests Add to West Ham's Miseries

West Ham were accommodating visitors, contributing to their own demise. First, ex- Wolves captain Max Kilman failed to make a simple clearance from a cross, allowing Mané to intervene, before being fouled by Soungoutou Magassa in the penalty area. The 18-year-old midfielder, once of Rochdale, was proving the key man on the pitch. Hwang stepped up to score the subsequent penalty, extending the advantage. Ironic chants of "We will win the league" echoed around Molineux.

Lacking confidence and inspiration, West Ham drifted out of the game despite dominating the ball, registering just a single attempt in the opening period.

The away side's frustrations were compounded shortly before halftime. The fearless Mané, a youngster among nervous senior players, turned beautifully, drove infield from the left, and unleashed a driven shot into the far corner from outside the box for his first senior goal. Finally, the Wolves fans could enjoy themselves.

Ineffective Second-Half Response

With nothing to lose, manager Nuno made a double change at the interval and altered to a offensive 3-4-3 formation. However, star attacker Jarrod Bowen remained quiet, and the introduction of Crysencio Summerville did not generate the required spark.

A lingering sense of anxiety still affected Wolves' judgment, unsure whether to clear the ball to safety or play out patiently. But, they need not have worried against such passive opponents. West Ham's inherent deficiencies became increasingly obvious as they produced very little of substance in the attacking areas.

Crucial Fixtures Lie Ahead

Ultimately, Wolves were the sole side likely of adding to the scoreline, and West Ham will be relieved the embarrassment was not greater. Focus now turns to a critical midweek fixture at home to 17th-placed Nottingham Forest, a match vital in the fight for Premier League survival. Based on this evidence, the Hammers have every reason to be very worried.