🔗 Share this article

This latest defeat represents a further humiliating episode in a difficult season for West Ham, increasing serious questions about the future of head coach Nuno Espírito Santo. The Hammers became the first team to lose to Wolves this term, enabling the West Midlands outfit to double their league points and boost their aspirations of avoiding the tag in the history books as the worst team in Premier League history.

Dominant First-Half Display Seals Long-Awaited Win

Within four minutes of the new year, Wolves managed to show signs of finding some confidence. The energetic Hwang Hee-chan provided a taste of his rejuvenated 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 close range to give Wolves a home lead for the first time since early October. Energy was evident equally on the field and in the stands, a rarity for most of the term.

Facing a side terribly short on confidence and missing key talent Lucas Paquetá due to injury, this represented the hosts' best opportunity for a win to date. Initially unnerved by taking the lead, Wolves opted to defend it doggedly, dropping back with all men behind the ball early on.

Compliant Guests Add to Their Own Problems

West Ham were accommodating guests, adding to their own downfall. First, former Wolves captain Max Kilman was unable to make a routine clearance from a cross, allowing Mané to pounce, only to be fouled by Soungoutou Magassa inside the box. The teenage midfielder, once of Rochdale, was proving the key figure on the field. Hwang took responsibility to score the subsequent spot-kick, extending the advantage. Ironic chants of "We will win the league" rang around Molineux.

Lacking confidence and ideas, West Ham were drifting out of the game despite dominating possession, registering just a solitary shot in the opening period.

The away side's frustrations deepened just prior to halftime. The fearless Mané, a youngster among nervous senior players, spun beautifully, 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 Wolves supporters were enjoying themselves.

Ineffective Second Period Response

With little to lose, manager Nuno made a double substitution at the interval and switched to a more attacking 3-4-3 shape. Yet, star attacker Jarrod Bowen remained muted, and the introduction of Crysencio Summerville did not provide the required spark.

A lingering feeling of anxiety continued to clouded Wolves' decision-making, uncertain whether to hoof the ball long or play out patiently. But, they need not have been concerned against such passive opponents. West Ham's own deficiencies became increasingly obvious as they created nothing of substance in the attacking areas.

Critical Fixtures On the Horizon

Ultimately, Wolves looked like the sole side likely of adding to the scoreline, and West Ham will be relieved the damage was not greater. Attention now turns to a pivotal midweek encounter at home to 17th-placed Nottingham Forest, a match essential in the battle for top-flight survival. Based on this showing, West Ham have cause to be afraid.