Wolves Demolish Struggling West Ham to Register First Premier League Victory of the Campaign
This latest setback constitutes one more embarrassing chapter in an torrid season for West Ham, increasing serious doubts about the prospects of their manager. The London club became the initial team to fall to Wolves this term, allowing the Midlands side to double their league points and boost their hopes of evading the tag in the history books as the least successful team in Premier League annals.
Dominant First-Half Performance Secures Long-Awaited Win
Within four minutes into the new year, Wolves were able to demonstrate of discovering much-needed confidence. The energetic Hwang Hee-chan provided a glimpse of his revitalised abilities with a long run before turning provider following sharp combination play with Mateus Mané. The resulting pull-back found an untracked Jhon Arias, who tapped in from point-blank range to give Wolves a lead at Molineux for the first time since October. Vibrancy was evident both on the field and in the stands, a sight for most of the season.
Facing a side terribly short on confidence and missing key player Lucas Paquetá due to injury, this was the home side's best opportunity for a victory this season. Initially confused by being ahead, Wolves chose to defend it fiercely, falling deep with all players behind the ball from an early stage.
Generous Guests Add to West Ham's Problems
West Ham were accommodating guests, adding to their own demise. First, former Wolves captain Max Kilman was unable to execute a routine clearance from a cross, allowing Mané to intervene, before being fouled by Soungoutou Magassa in the penalty area. The teenage player, formerly of Rochdale, emerged as the key figure on the pitch. Hwang stepped up to score the subsequent spot-kick, extending the advantage. Ironic chants of "We will win the league" rang around Molineux.
Lacking belief and ideas, West Ham were drifting away from the contest even with dominating possession, managing just a solitary shot in the opening period.
The visitors' woes were compounded just prior to halftime. The fearless Mané, a youngster among trepidatious adults, spun beautifully, drove infield from the left flank, and fired a low shot into the bottom corner from outside the box for his first professional goal. Finally, the Wolves supporters were enjoying themselves.
Ineffective Second Period Comeback Attempt
With nothing to lose, manager Nuno made a two substitution at the interval and altered to a offensive 3-4-3 formation. Yet, star forward Jarrod Bowen was quiet, and even introduction of Crysencio Summerville did not generate the necessary spark.
A lingering sense of nervousness still affected Wolves' decision-making, uncertain whether to clear the ball to safety or play out from the back. But, they had no need to been concerned against such meek opponents. West Ham's inherent failings were increasingly obvious as they created very little of note in the attacking areas.
Crucial Fixtures On the Horizon
Ultimately, Wolves were the sole side capable of increasing the tally, and West Ham will be relieved the embarrassment was not greater. Attention now turns to a critical Tuesday fixture at home to relegation-threatened Nottingham Forest, a match vital in the battle for top-flight safety. Based on this evidence, the Hammers have cause to be afraid.
