🔗 Share this article

This latest defeat constitutes another humiliating chapter in a troubled season for West Ham, increasing significant doubts about the prospects of head coach Nuno Espírito Santo. The Hammers became the initial team to succumb to Wolves in this campaign, allowing the Midlands team to double their league points and lift their hopes of avoiding a place in the record books as the least successful team in Premier League history.

Dominant Opening Display Secures Long-Awaited Win

Fewer than four minutes of the match, Wolves were able to show signs of finding some confidence. The lively Hwang Hee-chan offered a glimpse of his revitalised form with a lengthy run before laying on an assist thanks to neat combination play with Mateus Mané. His pull-back found an untracked Jhon Arias, who slid home from point-blank 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 much of the season.

Facing a side terribly short on confidence and missing key player Lucas Paquetá through injury, this represented the hosts' clearest opportunity for a win this season. Initially confused by being ahead, Wolves chose to defend it doggedly, dropping back with all men behind the ball early on.

Compliant Opponents Compound West Ham's Miseries

West Ham proved generous guests, contributing to their own demise. First, ex- Wolves captain Max Kilman was unable to execute a simple clearance from a cross, letting Mané to intervene, only to be fouled by Soungoutou Magassa inside the box. The teenage player, once of Rochdale, was proving the most influential man on the field. Hwang took responsibility to convert the subsequent spot-kick, doubling the lead. Tongue-in-cheek chants of "We're going to win the league" rang around Molineux.

Lacking confidence and ideas, West Ham drifted out of the game even with dominating possession, registering just a solitary shot in the opening period.

The away side's woes were compounded shortly before halftime. The confident Mané, a youngster among trepidatious adults, turned exquisitely, drove infield from the left, and unleashed a driven effort into the bottom corner from outside the box for his maiden professional goal. Finally, the home supporters could enjoy themselves.

Fruitless Second Period Comeback Attempt

With little to lose, manager Nuno made a two change at half-time and altered to a offensive 3-4-3 formation. However, key attacker Jarrod Bowen was quiet, and even introduction of Crysencio Summerville did not provide the required threat.

A persistent feeling of nervousness still affected Wolves' decision-making, uncertain whether to hoof the ball long or build patiently. But, they need not have been concerned against such passive resistance. West Ham's own deficiencies became increasingly apparent as they created nothing of substance in the attacking areas.

Crucial Matches On the Horizon

In the end, Wolves were the only side capable of increasing the scoreline, and West Ham will be relieved the damage was not greater. Focus now shifts to a pivotal Tuesday encounter at home to 17th-placed Nottingham Forest, a match vital in the battle for top-flight safety. On this showing, the Hammers should have every reason to be very worried.