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This latest defeat marks a further humiliating episode in a troubled season for West Ham, amplifying major doubts about the future of their manager. The London club had the misfortune of becoming the first team to fall to Wolves this term, enabling the West Midlands outfit to double their league points and boost their aspirations of avoiding a place in the record books as the worst team in Premier League annals.

Dominant Opening Performance Secures Long-Awaited Victory

Fewer than four minutes of the match, Wolves were able to demonstrate of discovering much-needed confidence. The energetic Hwang Hee-chan offered a taste of his rejuvenated abilities with a lengthy run before laying on an assist following sharp combination play with Mateus Mané. His cut-back found an unmarked Jhon Arias, who tapped in from point-blank range to give Wolves a lead at Molineux for the first time since October. Energy could be felt equally on the field and in the stands, a rarity for most of the term.

Facing a side woefully short on confidence and deprived of key talent Lucas Paquetá due to injury, this was the home side's clearest opportunity for a win to date. Initially confused by taking the lead, Wolves opted to defend it fiercely, falling back with eleven men behind the ball early on.

Compliant Guests Add to West Ham's Problems

West Ham proved generous visitors, adding to their own downfall. First, former Wolves captain Max Kilman was unable to execute a routine clearance from a cross, allowing Mané to pounce, only to be brought down by Soungoutou Magassa inside the box. The teenage player, once of Rochdale, was proving the most influential figure on the pitch. Hwang stepped up to convert the subsequent penalty, extending the lead. Tongue-in-cheek chants of "We will win the league" rang around Molineux.

Short on confidence and inspiration, West Ham drifted out of the contest despite dominating the ball, registering just a single shot in the opening period.

The visitors' woes deepened just prior to halftime. The fearless Mané, a youngster among trepidatious adults, turned exquisitely, cut in from the left, and fired a driven shot into the far corner from 18 yards for his first senior goal. At last, the Wolves fans could enjoy themselves.

Fruitless Second Period Comeback Attempt

With little to lose, manager Nuno made a double substitution at the interval and switched to a more attacking 3-4-3 formation. Yet, star forward Jarrod Bowen was muted, and even introduction of Crysencio Summerville failed to provide the necessary spark.

A persistent feeling of anxiety continued to clouded Wolves' judgment, uncertain whether to hoof the ball long or play out patiently. However, they need not have worried against such meek opponents. West Ham's inherent deficiencies became painfully obvious as they created very little of note in the final third.

Crucial Fixtures On the Horizon

In the end, Wolves looked like the sole side likely of increasing the scoreline, and West Ham will be thankful the damage was not more severe. Attention now turns to a critical Tuesday fixture at home to relegation-threatened Nottingham Forest, a match essential in the fight for Premier League safety. On this evidence, the Hammers have cause to be afraid.