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This latest defeat constitutes one more demoralizing episode in an torrid season for West Ham, increasing serious questions about the future of their manager. The Hammers became the first team to succumb to Wolves in this campaign, enabling the Midlands team to double their league points and lift their hopes of avoiding the tag in the record books as the least successful team in Premier League annals.

Dominant Opening Display Secures Historic Triumph

Fewer than the first four minutes of the match, Wolves were able to demonstrate of finding much-needed resolve. The energetic Hwang Hee-chan offered a taste of his rejuvenated form with a lengthy 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. Energy was evident both on the field and in the stands, a sight for most of the term.

Facing a side terribly short on confidence and deprived of key talent Lucas Paquetá through injury, this was the home side's best chance for a win to date. At first unnerved by being ahead, Wolves opted to defend it doggedly, dropping deep with eleven men behind the ball from an early stage.

Generous Guests Add to West Ham's Problems

West Ham proved generous guests, adding to their own downfall. First, ex- Wolves captain Max Kilman failed to make a routine clearance from a cross, letting Mané to intervene, only to be brought down by Soungoutou Magassa in the box. The 18-year-old midfielder, once of Rochdale, emerged as the key figure on the field. Hwang took responsibility to score the subsequent spot-kick, extending the lead. Tongue-in-cheek chants of "We're going to win the league" echoed around Molineux.

Lacking belief and ideas, West Ham drifted away from the game despite controlling the ball, managing just a single shot in the first half.

The away side's frustrations were compounded shortly before halftime. The confident Mané, a youngster among trepidatious senior players, spun beautifully, drove infield from the left, and unleashed a low effort into the bottom corner from outside the box for his first senior goal. At last, the Wolves supporters were enjoying themselves.

Ineffective Second Period Comeback Attempt

With little to lose, manager Nuno introduced a two change at the interval and altered to a more attacking 3-4-3 shape. Yet, star attacker Jarrod Bowen was quiet, and even introduction of Crysencio Summerville did not provide the necessary threat.

A persistent feeling of anxiety continued to clouded Wolves' judgment, unsure whether to clear the ball to safety or play out patiently. But, they had no need to worried against such passive resistance. West Ham's inherent deficiencies were increasingly obvious as they created nothing of note in the attacking areas.

Crucial Fixtures Lie Ahead

Ultimately, Wolves were the sole side capable of adding to the tally, and West Ham will be relieved the embarrassment was not more severe. Attention now turns to a critical midweek fixture at home to 17th-placed Nottingham Forest, a match vital in the fight for Premier League survival. On this showing, West Ham have every reason to be very worried.