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This latest defeat constitutes a further humiliating chapter in an difficult season for West Ham, raising major doubts about the prospects of their manager. The London club became the first team to lose to Wolves this term, enabling the West Midlands outfit to double their league points and lift their hopes of evading a place in the record books as the least successful team in Premier League annals.

Commanding Opening Performance Secures Historic Victory

Within the first four minutes into the match, Wolves managed to show signs of finding some resolve. The energetic Hwang Hee-chan provided a taste of his rejuvenated form with a long run before turning provider following sharp link-up play with Mateus Mané. His pull-back found an unmarked Jhon Arias, who slid home from close range to give Wolves a home lead for the first time since early October. Vibrancy could be felt equally on the field and in the terraces, a sight for much of the season.

Facing a side terribly short on confidence and missing key player Lucas Paquetá through injury, this was the hosts' clearest chance for a win this season. Initially unnerved by taking the lead, Wolves chose to defend it doggedly, dropping back with eleven players behind the ball early on.

Generous Guests Compound West Ham's Miseries

West Ham proved accommodating guests, adding to their own demise. First, ex- Wolves captain Max Kilman was unable to execute a routine clearance from a cross, allowing Mané to pounce, only to be fouled by Soungoutou Magassa inside the penalty area. The 18-year-old midfielder, once of Rochdale, was proving the most influential figure on the pitch. Hwang stepped up to score the subsequent penalty, extending the advantage. Ironic chants of "We're going to win the league" echoed around Molineux.

Lacking belief and ideas, West Ham were drifting away from the contest despite dominating possession, managing just a solitary shot in the opening period.

The visitors' frustrations deepened shortly before halftime. The fearless Mané, a youth among trepidatious senior players, turned exquisitely, cut in from the left flank, and fired a driven shot into the far corner from 18 yards for his first professional goal. Finally, the home fans were enjoying themselves.

Ineffective Second Period Response

With little to lose, coach Nuno made a double change at half-time and altered to a more attacking 3-4-3 shape. However, star forward Jarrod Bowen remained quiet, and even introduction of Crysencio Summerville did not generate the necessary spark.

A lingering sense of nervousness still affected Wolves' judgment, uncertain whether to hoof the ball long or play out from the back. But, they had no need to worried against such meek opponents. West Ham's own deficiencies were increasingly obvious as they produced nothing of note in the attacking areas.

Critical Matches Lie Ahead

In the end, Wolves were the only side likely of increasing the scoreline, and West Ham will be relieved the damage was not more severe. Focus now turns to a pivotal midweek encounter at home to 17th-placed Nottingham Forest, a match essential in the battle for Premier League survival. On this showing, the Hammers should have every reason to be very worried.