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This loss marks another humiliating episode in an torrid season for West Ham, raising significant doubts about the future of their manager. The Hammers became the first team to fall to Wolves in this campaign, allowing the Midlands team to double their points tally and lift their aspirations of avoiding a place in the record books as the worst team in Premier League history.

Commanding Opening Performance Secures Historic Win

Within the first four minutes into the match, Wolves managed to show signs of finding some confidence. The lively Hwang Hee-chan offered a glimpse of his rejuvenated abilities with a lengthy run before laying on an assist following sharp link-up play with Mateus Mané. The resulting pull-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 was evident both on the pitch and in the terraces, a rarity for much of the term.

Facing a team woefully short on confidence and missing creative player Lucas Paquetá through injury, this represented the hosts' best opportunity for a win this season. Initially confused by taking the lead, Wolves chose to defend it doggedly, dropping deep with all players behind the ball from an early stage.

Generous Guests Add to Their Own Miseries

West Ham were generous guests, adding to their own downfall. First, ex- Wolves captain Max Kilman was unable to make a routine clearance from a cross, allowing Mané to pounce, only to be brought down by Soungoutou Magassa in the penalty area. The 18-year-old midfielder, formerly of Rochdale, emerged as the key man on the field. Hwang took responsibility to convert the resulting spot-kick, extending the advantage. Ironic chants of "We're going to win the league" rang around Molineux.

Lacking belief and ideas, West Ham drifted away from the contest even with dominating the ball, registering just a single attempt in the first half.

The away side's frustrations deepened shortly before halftime. The confident Mané, a youngster among nervous senior players, turned exquisitely, drove infield from the left flank, and unleashed a low effort into the far corner from outside the box for his first senior goal. Finally, the Wolves supporters could enjoy themselves.

Ineffective Second-Half Comeback Attempt

With little to lose, coach Nuno made a two substitution at half-time and switched to a offensive 3-4-3 shape. However, key forward Jarrod Bowen was quiet, and even introduction of Crysencio Summerville did not provide the required threat.

A persistent feeling of nervousness continued to affected Wolves' judgment, unsure whether to clear the ball long or build from the back. However, they need not have worried against such meek resistance. West Ham's inherent deficiencies became increasingly obvious as they produced nothing of substance in the attacking areas.

Crucial Fixtures On the Horizon

In the end, Wolves looked like the only side capable of adding to the tally, and West Ham will be thankful the damage was not greater. Focus now turns to a pivotal midweek encounter at home to 17th-placed Nottingham Forest, a match vital in the battle for top-flight safety. Based on this showing, the Hammers have every reason to be afraid.