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This latest setback marks a further humiliating episode in a troubled season for West Ham, increasing serious doubts about the future of their manager. The Hammers had the misfortune of becoming the first team to succumb to Wolves this term, enabling the West Midlands outfit to double their points tally and lift their aspirations of evading a place in the record books as the worst team in Premier League annals.

Dominant First-Half Performance Seals Long-Awaited Win

Within the first four minutes into the match, Wolves managed to demonstrate of finding much-needed resolution. The lively Hwang Hee-chan offered a taste of his revitalised abilities with a long run before turning provider thanks to neat combination play with Mateus Mané. The resulting cut-back found an untracked Jhon Arias, who slid home from close range to give Wolves a lead at Molineux for the first time since October. Vibrancy could be felt equally on the field and in the terraces, a rarity for much of the term.

Facing a team terribly out of form and missing creative talent Lucas Paquetá through injury, this was the hosts' best opportunity for a victory to date. At first confused by taking the lead, Wolves opted to defend it fiercely, dropping deep with all players behind the ball early on.

Compliant Opponents Add to West Ham's Miseries

West Ham were generous guests, adding to their own demise. First, former Wolves captain Max Kilman was unable to make a simple clearance from a cross, letting Mané to pounce, before being fouled by Soungoutou Magassa in the penalty area. The teenage midfielder, formerly of Rochdale, emerged as the most influential man on the field. Hwang took responsibility to convert the resulting spot-kick, extending the lead. Tongue-in-cheek chants of "We're going to win the league" echoed around Molineux.

Short on confidence and inspiration, West Ham were drifting out of the game even with controlling possession, managing just a solitary shot in the first half.

The visitors' frustrations deepened shortly before halftime. The confident Mané, a youngster among trepidatious adults, spun exquisitely, drove infield from the left flank, and fired a driven shot into the far corner from outside the box for his maiden professional goal. Finally, the home fans were enjoying themselves.

Fruitless Second Period Response

With nothing to lose, manager Nuno introduced a two change at the interval and switched to a more attacking 3-4-3 shape. However, star attacker Jarrod Bowen was quiet, and even introduction of Crysencio Summerville failed to generate the required spark.

A lingering feeling of nervousness still clouded Wolves' decision-making, uncertain whether to hoof the ball to safety or play out patiently. However, they need not have been concerned against such meek opponents. West Ham's inherent failings became increasingly apparent as they produced nothing of note in the final third.

Critical Fixtures Lie Ahead

In the end, Wolves were the only side likely of adding to the tally, and West Ham will be relieved the damage was not greater. Attention now turns to a pivotal Tuesday encounter at home to 17th-placed Nottingham Forest, a match essential in the fight for Premier League safety. On this evidence, the Hammers have cause to be very worried.