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This defeat marks one more embarrassing episode in a difficult season for West Ham, increasing major questions about the prospects of their manager. The Hammers 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 hopes of avoiding the tag in the history books as the least successful team in Premier League history.

Commanding First-Half Display Secures Historic Victory

Within the first four minutes into the match, Wolves were able to give the impression of finding some resolve. The energetic Hwang Hee-chan provided a glimpse of his revitalised abilities with a long run before laying on an assist following neat combination play with Mateus Mané. The resulting pull-back found an untracked Jhon Arias, who tapped in from close range to give Wolves a lead at Molineux for the first time since early October. Energy was evident equally on the field and in the stands, a sight for most of the season.

Facing a side woefully out of form and deprived of key player Lucas Paquetá through injury, this was the hosts' clearest opportunity for a win this season. Initially confused by taking the lead, Wolves opted to defend it doggedly, falling deep with eleven players behind the ball from an early stage.

Compliant Guests Compound Their Own Problems

West Ham proved generous guests, contributing to their own demise. First, ex- Wolves captain Max Kilman failed to execute a routine clearance from a cross, allowing Mané to intervene, only to be fouled by Soungoutou Magassa in the penalty area. The teenage player, once of Rochdale, emerged as the key man on the field. Hwang took responsibility to convert the resulting spot-kick, doubling the lead. Ironic chants of "We're going to win the league" echoed around Molineux.

Short on confidence and ideas, West Ham were drifting out of the contest despite controlling possession, registering just a single attempt in the opening period.

The away side's woes deepened just prior to halftime. The fearless Mané, a youth among trepidatious senior players, spun beautifully, cut in from the left, and fired a low shot into the bottom corner from 18 yards for his first professional goal. At last, the Wolves fans were enjoying themselves.

Ineffective Second-Half Response

With little to lose, coach Nuno made a double change at the interval and altered to a offensive 3-4-3 shape. Yet, key forward Jarrod Bowen remained muted, and even introduction of Crysencio Summerville did not provide the necessary spark.

A lingering feeling of anxiety still clouded Wolves' decision-making, unsure whether to hoof the ball to safety or play out patiently. But, they need not have been concerned against such passive resistance. West Ham's own failings became painfully apparent as they created very little of substance in the attacking areas.

Crucial Matches Lie Ahead

In the end, Wolves were the sole side likely of increasing the scoreline, and West Ham will be relieved the embarrassment was not more severe. Focus now turns to a pivotal Tuesday encounter at home to 17th-placed Nottingham Forest, a match vital in the battle for top-flight survival. On this showing, West Ham have cause to be afraid.