🔗 Share this article

This loss constitutes a further demoralizing chapter in a troubled season for West Ham, increasing major doubts about the future of their manager. The London club became the first team to succumb to Wolves in this campaign, enabling the Midlands team to double their league points and lift their aspirations of evading a place in the history books as the least successful team in Premier League history.

Dominant Opening Display Seals Long-Awaited Victory

Within four minutes of the new year, Wolves managed to give the impression of finding some resolve. The lively Hwang Hee-chan provided a taste of his revitalised abilities with a long run before laying on an assist thanks to sharp combination play with Mateus Mané. His pull-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 pitch and in the stands, a rarity for much of the season.

Facing a team woefully out of form and missing creative player Lucas Paquetá due to injury, this was the home side's best chance for a win this season. At first confused by taking the lead, Wolves opted to protect it doggedly, falling deep with all players behind the ball from an early stage.

Generous Guests Add to West Ham's Miseries

West Ham were accommodating visitors, contributing to their own downfall. First, ex- Wolves captain Max Kilman was unable to make a routine clearance from a cross, letting Mané to pounce, only to be fouled by Soungoutou Magassa inside the box. The 18-year-old midfielder, once of Rochdale, emerged as the key figure on the pitch. Hwang stepped up to score the subsequent penalty, doubling the advantage. Ironic chants of "We will win the league" echoed around Molineux.

Lacking confidence and ideas, West Ham were drifting out of the game even with controlling the ball, managing just a solitary attempt in the opening period.

The visitors' frustrations deepened shortly before halftime. The fearless Mané, a youngster among nervous senior players, spun exquisitely, cut in from the left, and fired a low shot into the bottom corner from 18 yards for his first senior goal. At last, the home supporters could enjoy themselves.

Fruitless Second Period Comeback Attempt

With little to lose, coach Nuno made a double change at the interval and altered to a offensive 3-4-3 shape. Yet, key attacker Jarrod Bowen was quiet, and the introduction of Crysencio Summerville failed to generate the necessary spark.

A persistent feeling of nervousness continued to affected Wolves' judgment, unsure whether to clear the ball long or build patiently. But, they had no need to been concerned against such meek resistance. West Ham's own failings were painfully obvious as they created very little of substance in the final third.

Crucial Fixtures Lie Ahead

Ultimately, Wolves were the only side capable of increasing the tally, and West Ham will be relieved the embarrassment was not greater. Focus now turns to a pivotal Tuesday fixture at home to 17th-placed Nottingham Forest, a match essential in the fight for top-flight safety. On this showing, West Ham should have every reason to be afraid.