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This latest setback marks a further humiliating chapter in an troubled season for West Ham, increasing major questions about the prospects of their manager. The London club became the initial team to succumb to Wolves this term, allowing the West Midlands outfit to double their league points and boost their hopes of avoiding the tag in the record books as the worst team in Premier League history.

Dominant Opening Performance Secures Long-Awaited Victory

Within four minutes into the new year, Wolves managed to show signs of discovering some resolve. The energetic Hwang Hee-chan provided a taste of his rejuvenated form with a long run before laying on an assist following sharp combination play with Mateus Mané. The resulting cut-back found an unmarked Jhon Arias, who tapped in from close range to give Wolves a lead at Molineux for the first time since early October. Energy could be felt both on the field and in the terraces, a rarity for most of the season.

Facing a side woefully out of form and missing key player Lucas Paquetá through injury, this represented the home side's best opportunity for a victory this season. Initially confused by taking the lead, Wolves chose to defend it doggedly, falling deep with eleven men behind the ball early on.

Compliant Opponents Add to West Ham's Miseries

West Ham were generous guests, adding to their own demise. First, ex- Wolves captain Max Kilman failed to make a routine clearance from a cross, allowing Mané to intervene, before being brought down by Soungoutou Magassa in the box. The 18-year-old midfielder, formerly of Rochdale, was proving the key man on the field. Hwang stepped up to convert the subsequent spot-kick, doubling the advantage. Ironic chants of "We will win the league" rang around Molineux.

Short on belief and ideas, West Ham were drifting away from the contest despite controlling the ball, registering just a single attempt in the opening period.

The visitors' frustrations deepened shortly before halftime. The confident Mané, a youngster among trepidatious adults, spun beautifully, drove infield from the left flank, and fired a driven shot into the far corner from 18 yards for his first senior goal. Finally, the home supporters could enjoy themselves.

Ineffective Second-Half Response

With little to lose, manager Nuno introduced a two substitution at half-time and switched to a more attacking 3-4-3 formation. However, star forward Jarrod Bowen was quiet, and even introduction of Crysencio Summerville did not provide the required threat.

A lingering feeling of nervousness still affected Wolves' judgment, uncertain whether to hoof the ball long or build from the back. But, they had no need to been concerned against such passive opponents. West Ham's own failings were painfully apparent as they produced nothing of substance in the attacking areas.

Critical Matches Lie Ahead

In the end, Wolves were the only side capable of adding to the scoreline, and West Ham will be thankful the damage was not more severe. Attention now shifts to a pivotal Tuesday fixture at home to 17th-placed Nottingham Forest, a match essential in the fight for Premier League safety. On this showing, West Ham have cause to be very worried.