Few could have any complaints with the starting eleven [Nuno](https://www.claretandhugh.info/nunos-shining-light-report-reveals-nailed-on-west-ham-starter-for-wolves-contest/) sent out to play Wolves tonight. With the possible exception of Kyle Walker-Peters – in for Wan-Bissaka – this was West Ham’s strongest first team, in effectively a 4-4-2 attacking line up. A strong bench, too, with Callum Wilson and Adama Traoré both available should Nuno need attacking options, interestingly no Kilman, Mayers or Herrick in the squad.
West Ham’s duo in midfield struggled in the early stages as Wolves outnumbered Soucek and Fernandes: Would Nuno move to rectify the situation as the Hammers looked disjointed – and second best for much of the first half? In fact it looked as if Summerville and Bowen were both pulled back 10 yards to bolster the midfield and counter Wolves’ early ascendency.
Mavropanos’ top drawer almost ‘Shearer-like’ bullet header put the Irons in front just before the break after the Hammers had been second best and Pablo almost broke his Hammers duck: Despite being second best in midfield, West Ham went into the break 1-0 ahead. No changes at half time.
Both teams hit the post early on as the game opened up, Gomez time troubling the Irons from direct free kicks. Wolves changed first at the hour mark, how would Nuno respond..
A breathtaking two minutes later and the smiles were breaking out as **two** Taty goals gave the Irons breathing space and the ‘_West Ham are massive_‘ choruses broke out. 3 – 0. Bowen’s 8th assist.
77 minutes saw the change with Pablo giving way to Traore, Freddie Potts on for Summerville. Sensible. Important few minutes for Potts, a chance to get some confidence back. Good call from Nuno who gambled on a lightweight 2-only in midfield and it paid off. Taty subbed off to a standing ovation for Wilson on 81 minutes.
Man of the Match Mavropanos’ 4th was the icing on the cake: Traore missed a sitter _but nobody was leaving early tonight_: Nuno Espírito Santo got a clean sheet, a big shot in the arm for the Hammers’ goal difference and three vital points. Smiles from the Hammers manager at last, **Nuno rating: 8/10 tonight.**