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This latest loss marks another demoralizing episode in an troubled season for West Ham, increasing serious doubts about the future of their manager. The London club became the first team to succumb to Wolves in this campaign, allowing the Midlands side to double their league points and lift their aspirations of avoiding a place in the history books as the worst team in Premier League annals.

Dominant First-Half Performance Seals Long-Awaited Win

Fewer than four minutes of the match, Wolves managed to demonstrate of finding some resolution. The lively Hwang Hee-chan offered a glimpse of his revitalised abilities with a lengthy run before turning provider thanks to sharp link-up 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 early October. Energy could be felt both on the field and in the terraces, a sight for most of the season.

Facing a side terribly out of form and deprived of creative player Lucas Paquetá through injury, this was the hosts' clearest opportunity for a victory to date. Initially unnerved by taking the lead, Wolves chose to protect it doggedly, dropping deep with all men behind the ball early on.

Generous Opponents Add to West Ham's Problems

West Ham were generous guests, adding to their own downfall. First, former Wolves captain Max Kilman was unable to execute a simple clearance from a cross, allowing Mané to intervene, only to be fouled by Soungoutou Magassa in the box. The teenage player, formerly of Rochdale, emerged as the key figure on the field. Hwang stepped up to score the subsequent penalty, extending the lead. Ironic chants of "We're going to win the league" rang around Molineux.

Short on belief and inspiration, West Ham were drifting out of the game even with dominating the ball, registering just a single attempt in the opening period.

The visitors' frustrations were compounded shortly before halftime. The fearless Mané, a youngster among nervous adults, spun exquisitely, cut in from the left, and unleashed a driven shot into the bottom corner from outside the box for his first professional goal. At last, the home supporters could enjoy themselves.

Fruitless Second-Half Comeback Attempt

With nothing to lose, coach Nuno made a double substitution at half-time and altered to a offensive 3-4-3 formation. Yet, star attacker Jarrod Bowen was muted, and even introduction of Crysencio Summerville did not generate the necessary threat.

A persistent sense of nervousness still clouded Wolves' judgment, unsure whether to clear the ball long or build patiently. However, they need not have been concerned against such passive resistance. West Ham's own deficiencies were painfully apparent as they created very little of substance in the attacking areas.

Crucial Fixtures Lie Ahead

Ultimately, Wolves were the sole side capable of adding to the tally, and West Ham will be thankful the embarrassment was not more severe. Attention now turns to a pivotal Tuesday encounter at home to 17th-placed Nottingham Forest, a match essential in the battle for Premier League survival. Based on this evidence, the Hammers have every reason to be very worried.