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This latest setback represents one more humiliating episode in a torrid season for West Ham, amplifying significant questions about the future of their manager. The London club became the initial team to fall to Wolves this term, enabling the Midlands side to increase their league points and lift their hopes of evading the tag in the history books as the worst team in Premier League annals.

Dominant Opening Display Seals Historic Triumph

Fewer than the first four minutes into the new year, Wolves were able to give the impression of finding some confidence. The energetic Hwang Hee-chan offered a glimpse of his revitalised form with a long run before turning provider thanks to sharp link-up play with Mateus Mané. The resulting cut-back found an unmarked Jhon Arias, who tapped in from point-blank range to give Wolves a home lead for the first time since October. Energy could be felt both on the field and in the terraces, a sight for most of the term.

Facing a team terribly out of form and missing creative talent Lucas Paquetá due to injury, this was the hosts' clearest chance for a victory to date. At first unnerved by being ahead, Wolves chose to defend it fiercely, falling deep with all players behind the ball early on.

Compliant Guests Compound West Ham's Problems

West Ham were generous visitors, adding to their own downfall. First, former Wolves captain Max Kilman failed to execute a routine clearance from a cross, letting Mané to pounce, before being fouled by Soungoutou Magassa in the penalty area. The 18-year-old midfielder, once of Rochdale, emerged as the key figure on the pitch. Hwang stepped up to score the subsequent penalty, extending the lead. Ironic chants of "We're going to win the league" rang around Molineux.

Lacking belief and inspiration, West Ham were drifting away from the game even with controlling possession, registering just a single shot in the opening period.

The away side's woes were compounded shortly before halftime. The confident Mané, a youth among nervous adults, spun exquisitely, drove infield from the left, and fired a low shot into the far corner from 18 yards for his first senior goal. At last, the Wolves supporters were enjoying themselves.

Ineffective Second Period Comeback Attempt

With little to lose, coach Nuno made a two change at half-time and switched to a more attacking 3-4-3 formation. Yet, key forward Jarrod Bowen remained quiet, and even introduction of Crysencio Summerville did not provide the necessary threat.

A persistent feeling of anxiety still clouded Wolves' judgment, unsure whether to clear the ball to safety or play out patiently. But, they need not have worried against such passive opponents. West Ham's own failings became painfully apparent as they created very little of substance in the attacking areas.

Critical Matches Lie Ahead

In the end, Wolves looked like the only side capable of adding to the scoreline, and West Ham will be thankful the embarrassment was not more severe. Focus now shifts to a critical midweek encounter at home to relegation-threatened Nottingham Forest, a match vital in the fight for top-flight survival. On this evidence, West Ham have every reason to be afraid.