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This latest loss marks one more demoralizing episode in an torrid season for West Ham, raising major doubts about the prospects of head coach Nuno Espírito Santo. The London club had the misfortune of becoming the first team to fall to Wolves this term, enabling the West Midlands team to double their points tally and lift their aspirations of evading a place in the record books as the worst team in Premier League history.

Dominant Opening Performance Seals Historic Win

Fewer than the first four minutes of the new year, Wolves managed to give the impression of discovering some confidence. The lively Hwang Hee-chan provided a taste of his rejuvenated abilities with a long run before laying on an assist thanks to sharp combination play with Mateus Mané. The resulting cut-back found an untracked 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 pitch and in the terraces, a sight for much of the term.

Facing a side terribly short on confidence and missing key talent Lucas Paquetá due to injury, this was the home side's clearest chance for a win to date. Initially unnerved by taking the lead, Wolves chose to defend it doggedly, dropping deep with all men behind the ball early on.

Compliant Opponents Compound West Ham's Miseries

West Ham were generous guests, contributing to their own downfall. First, ex- Wolves captain Max Kilman was unable to execute a routine clearance from a cross, letting Mané to intervene, 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 took responsibility to convert the resulting penalty, doubling the advantage. Ironic chants of "We're going to win the league" rang around Molineux.

Short on belief and ideas, West Ham drifted out of the game even with controlling possession, registering just a single shot in the opening period.

The away side's woes were compounded just prior to halftime. The confident Mané, a youngster among nervous adults, spun exquisitely, cut in from the left flank, and unleashed a low shot into the far corner from 18 yards for his maiden professional goal. At last, the home fans were enjoying themselves.

Fruitless Second-Half Comeback Attempt

With little to lose, coach Nuno made a double substitution 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 failed to generate the required spark.

A persistent feeling of nervousness still affected Wolves' judgment, uncertain whether to hoof the ball long or build patiently. But, they need not have worried against such meek resistance. West Ham's own failings were painfully apparent as they created very little of substance in the final third.

Critical Matches On the Horizon

Ultimately, Wolves were the only side capable of adding to the scoreline, and West Ham will be relieved the damage was not greater. Focus now turns to a pivotal Tuesday fixture at home to 17th-placed Nottingham Forest, a match vital in the fight for top-flight safety. Based on this showing, West Ham should have every reason to be very worried.