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This latest defeat marks one more humiliating chapter in a torrid season for West Ham, amplifying serious doubts about the prospects of head coach Nuno Espírito Santo. The Hammers became the initial team to fall to Wolves in this campaign, enabling the Midlands team to double their points tally and lift their aspirations of evading a place in the history books as the worst team in Premier League history.

Dominant Opening Display Seals Historic Triumph

Within four minutes into the match, Wolves were able to show signs of discovering some confidence. The lively Hwang Hee-chan provided a taste of his rejuvenated abilities with a lengthy run before turning provider thanks to sharp combination play with Mateus Mané. His cut-back found an unmarked Jhon Arias, who tapped in from close range to give Wolves a home lead for the first time since early October. Vibrancy could be felt both on the pitch and in the terraces, a sight for most of the term.

Facing a team terribly short on confidence and deprived of creative talent Lucas Paquetá through injury, this represented the hosts' best chance for a win this season. At first confused by taking the lead, Wolves chose to protect it doggedly, dropping deep with eleven players behind the ball from an early stage.

Compliant Guests Add to West Ham's Problems

West Ham were generous visitors, contributing to their own downfall. First, ex- Wolves captain Max Kilman was unable to make a routine clearance from a cross, allowing Mané to intervene, before being brought down by Soungoutou Magassa in the penalty area. The teenage player, formerly of Rochdale, emerged as the most influential figure on the field. Hwang stepped up to score the subsequent penalty, extending the lead. Ironic chants of "We will win the league" echoed around Molineux.

Short on confidence and ideas, West Ham drifted away from the contest despite dominating the ball, registering just a single shot in the opening period.

The visitors' woes deepened shortly before halftime. The fearless Mané, a youth among nervous adults, spun beautifully, drove infield from the left, and unleashed a driven shot into the bottom corner from outside the box for his maiden professional goal. At last, the Wolves fans were enjoying themselves.

Ineffective Second Period Response

With nothing to lose, manager Nuno made a two substitution at the interval and switched to a more attacking 3-4-3 shape. However, star forward Jarrod Bowen remained muted, and even introduction of Crysencio Summerville did not generate the required threat.

A lingering feeling of nervousness continued to affected Wolves' decision-making, unsure whether to clear the ball long or build from the back. However, they need not have been concerned against such passive resistance. West Ham's own failings were increasingly apparent as they created nothing of note in the attacking areas.

Critical Fixtures On the Horizon

In the end, Wolves looked like the only side likely of adding to the tally, and West Ham will be thankful the embarrassment was not greater. Attention now shifts to a pivotal Tuesday fixture at home to 17th-placed Nottingham Forest, a match essential in the battle for top-flight safety. On this evidence, West Ham have cause to be afraid.