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This latest setback represents a further humiliating episode in an difficult season for West Ham, amplifying serious questions about the prospects of head coach Nuno Espírito Santo. The Hammers became the first team to succumb to Wolves this term, allowing the Midlands team to double their league points and lift their hopes of avoiding the tag in the record books as the worst team in Premier League history.

Commanding Opening Display Seals Long-Awaited Victory

Fewer than the first four minutes of the match, Wolves were able to give the impression of finding much-needed confidence. The energetic Hwang Hee-chan offered a glimpse of his rejuvenated abilities with a lengthy run before laying on an assist following neat combination play with Mateus Mané. The resulting 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 was evident both on the field and in the terraces, a sight for much of the term.

Facing a side woefully out of form and missing creative talent Lucas Paquetá through injury, this represented the home side's best opportunity for a win this season. Initially confused by being ahead, Wolves chose to defend it doggedly, falling deep with all players behind the ball from an early stage.

Generous Opponents Add to West Ham's Miseries

West Ham proved generous guests, adding to their own demise. First, ex- Wolves captain Max Kilman was unable to make a routine clearance from a cross, allowing Mané to intervene, before being fouled by Soungoutou Magassa in the box. The 18-year-old player, formerly of Rochdale, emerged as the most influential figure on the field. Hwang took responsibility to score the resulting spot-kick, doubling the advantage. Ironic chants of "We will win the league" rang around Molineux.

Lacking confidence and ideas, West Ham were drifting out of the contest even with dominating the ball, registering just a single attempt in the opening period.

The away side's frustrations were compounded just prior to halftime. The confident Mané, a youngster among trepidatious senior players, turned beautifully, drove infield from the left flank, and unleashed a low effort into the far corner from outside the box for his maiden professional goal. At last, the Wolves fans could enjoy themselves.

Ineffective Second Period Response

With little to lose, coach Nuno introduced a two change at half-time and altered to a more attacking 3-4-3 formation. Yet, key attacker Jarrod Bowen was muted, and even introduction of Crysencio Summerville did not generate the required threat.

A lingering sense of nervousness continued to clouded Wolves' judgment, unsure whether to clear the ball long or play out from the back. However, they need not have worried against such passive resistance. West Ham's own failings became painfully obvious as they produced nothing of substance in the attacking areas.

Crucial Matches Lie Ahead

In the end, Wolves looked like the sole side likely of increasing the scoreline, and West Ham will be thankful the damage was not greater. Attention now turns to a pivotal Tuesday encounter at home to 17th-placed Nottingham Forest, a match vital in the fight for Premier League survival. On this evidence, West Ham have cause to be very worried.