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This latest setback marks one more embarrassing chapter in a troubled season for West Ham, amplifying significant doubts about the prospects of head coach Nuno Espírito Santo. The Hammers became the first team to succumb to Wolves in this campaign, enabling the Midlands side to increase their points tally and boost their hopes of evading the tag in the history books as the worst team in Premier League annals.

Dominant First-Half Display Secures Long-Awaited Triumph

Within the first four minutes of the match, Wolves were able to show signs of discovering much-needed confidence. The energetic Hwang Hee-chan offered a glimpse of his rejuvenated abilities with a long run before turning provider thanks to neat link-up play with Mateus Mané. His pull-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 was evident both on the field and in the terraces, a sight for much of the season.

Facing a team woefully short on confidence and deprived of creative player Lucas Paquetá due to injury, this was the hosts' best opportunity for a victory this season. Initially unnerved by taking the lead, Wolves chose to protect it doggedly, dropping deep with eleven men behind the ball early on.

Compliant Guests Add to West Ham's Problems

West Ham were generous guests, adding to their own demise. First, ex- Wolves captain Max Kilman was unable to execute a simple clearance from a cross, allowing Mané to intervene, only to be brought down by Soungoutou Magassa in the box. The teenage player, formerly of Rochdale, was proving the key man on the pitch. Hwang stepped up to score the subsequent penalty, doubling the lead. Ironic chants of "We will win the league" echoed around Molineux.

Lacking confidence and ideas, West Ham were drifting out of the game despite dominating possession, registering just a solitary attempt in the opening period.

The visitors' frustrations were compounded just prior to halftime. The confident Mané, a youth among trepidatious senior players, spun exquisitely, drove infield from the left flank, and unleashed a low effort into the bottom corner from outside the box for his first professional goal. At last, the home supporters were enjoying themselves.

Fruitless Second-Half Comeback Attempt

With nothing to lose, coach Nuno introduced a two substitution at half-time and switched to a offensive 3-4-3 shape. Yet, key forward Jarrod Bowen remained quiet, and even introduction of Crysencio Summerville did not generate the required threat.

A lingering sense of nervousness continued to affected Wolves' judgment, uncertain whether to hoof the ball long or build patiently. However, they need not have worried against such meek resistance. West Ham's own deficiencies became painfully obvious as they produced nothing of substance in the attacking areas.

Critical Matches On the Horizon

Ultimately, Wolves were the only side likely of increasing the scoreline, and West Ham will be relieved the damage was not greater. Attention now shifts to a pivotal Tuesday encounter at home to 17th-placed Nottingham Forest, a match essential in the battle for top-flight safety. Based on this showing, the Hammers have every reason to be afraid.