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This latest defeat marks a further demoralizing chapter in an torrid season for West Ham, amplifying serious doubts about the future of their manager. The London club had the misfortune of becoming the initial team to succumb to Wolves this term, enabling the West Midlands team to increase their league points and boost their aspirations of avoiding the tag in the history books as the worst team in Premier League history.

Dominant Opening Display Seals Long-Awaited Victory

Within four minutes into the match, Wolves managed to demonstrate of discovering some resolve. The lively Hwang Hee-chan provided a glimpse of his rejuvenated form with a lengthy run before turning provider thanks to sharp link-up play with Mateus Mané. The resulting cut-back found an untracked Jhon Arias, who tapped in from close range to give Wolves a home lead for the first time since October. Vibrancy could be felt equally on the field and in the stands, a rarity for much of the season.

Facing a side terribly short on confidence and missing creative player Lucas Paquetá due to injury, this represented the hosts' clearest opportunity for a victory this season. At first unnerved by being ahead, Wolves chose to defend it doggedly, falling deep with all players behind the ball early on.

Compliant Opponents Compound West Ham's Miseries

West Ham proved generous guests, contributing to their own downfall. First, ex- Wolves captain Max Kilman was unable to make a simple clearance from a cross, letting Mané to intervene, before being fouled by Soungoutou Magassa inside the penalty area. The 18-year-old player, formerly of Rochdale, emerged as the most influential man on the field. Hwang stepped up to convert the resulting spot-kick, doubling the lead. Tongue-in-cheek chants of "We're going to win the league" echoed around Molineux.

Lacking confidence and inspiration, West Ham drifted away from the contest even with dominating possession, registering just a single attempt in the first half.

The away side's woes deepened just prior to halftime. The confident Mané, a youngster among nervous adults, spun exquisitely, cut in from the left, and fired a driven shot into the bottom corner from outside the box for his maiden professional goal. Finally, the Wolves supporters were enjoying themselves.

Ineffective Second-Half Comeback Attempt

With nothing to lose, coach Nuno made a double change at the interval and altered to a more attacking 3-4-3 shape. However, key attacker Jarrod Bowen was muted, and even introduction of Crysencio Summerville did not generate the necessary spark.

A persistent sense of anxiety continued to affected Wolves' decision-making, unsure whether to clear the ball long or play out patiently. However, they had no need to worried against such passive resistance. West Ham's inherent failings were painfully obvious as they produced very little of substance in the final third.

Critical Fixtures Lie Ahead

Ultimately, 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 shifts to a pivotal Tuesday fixture at home to 17th-placed Nottingham Forest, a match vital in the fight for top-flight survival. Based on this evidence, the Hammers have cause to be afraid.