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This defeat represents one more embarrassing episode in a torrid season for West Ham, amplifying significant doubts about the prospects of their manager. The Hammers became the initial team to fall to Wolves in this campaign, enabling the Midlands outfit to double their league points and boost their hopes of evading a place in the record books as the worst team in Premier League annals.

Dominant First-Half Performance Secures Historic Victory

Within four minutes of the match, Wolves were able to give the impression of discovering some resolve. The lively Hwang Hee-chan offered a glimpse of his rejuvenated form with a long run before turning provider thanks to sharp combination play with Mateus Mané. His pull-back found an unmarked Jhon Arias, who slid home from close range to give Wolves a lead at Molineux for the first time since October. Vibrancy was evident equally on the pitch and in the terraces, a sight for much of the season.

Facing a team terribly out of form and missing creative player Lucas Paquetá due to injury, this was the home side's clearest chance for a win to date. Initially confused by being ahead, Wolves opted to protect it doggedly, dropping deep with all players behind the ball early on.

Generous Opponents Compound West Ham's Miseries

West Ham were accommodating visitors, adding to their own downfall. First, ex- Wolves captain Max Kilman was unable to make a simple clearance from a cross, letting Mané to pounce, before being brought down by Soungoutou Magassa in the box. The 18-year-old player, once of Rochdale, was proving the key figure on the field. Hwang took responsibility to score the resulting spot-kick, doubling the advantage. Ironic chants of "We will win the league" echoed around Molineux.

Lacking belief and inspiration, West Ham drifted away from the game even with controlling the ball, registering just a solitary attempt in the opening period.

The visitors' woes were compounded shortly before halftime. The confident Mané, a youth among nervous adults, turned beautifully, drove infield from the left flank, and fired a low effort into the far corner from 18 yards for his maiden professional goal. At last, the home fans were enjoying themselves.

Fruitless Second Period Response

With little to lose, manager Nuno made a double change at half-time and altered to a more attacking 3-4-3 formation. However, key forward Jarrod Bowen remained quiet, and the 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 to safety or play out patiently. But, they had no need to been concerned against such meek opponents. West Ham's inherent failings became painfully apparent as they created nothing of substance in the attacking areas.

Critical Matches On the Horizon

Ultimately, Wolves looked like the only side likely of increasing the scoreline, and West Ham will be relieved the damage was not greater. Focus now turns to a pivotal Tuesday encounter at home to 17th-placed Nottingham Forest, a match essential in the battle for Premier League safety. On this showing, West Ham should have cause to be very worried.