Manchester United's unbeaten run continued despite not playing well against West Brom, who missed a second-half penalty.
United made the perfect start with Wayne Rooney heading them ahead in the third minute from Patrice Evra's cross for his first goal from open play since March.
West Brom didn't lie down and were back level in the 14th minute thanks to a spectacular strike from James Morrison, whose right-foot volley from the edge of the area gave Tomasz Kuszczak no chance.
The home side took control of the game and should have had a penalty when Gary Neville brought down Graham Dorrans in the area but nothing was given by referee Chris Foy.
They were awarded a penalty after the break however when Rio Ferdinand caught Jerome Thomas but Peter Odemwingie sent the spot-kick wide. United took full advantage, substitute Javier Hernandez heading Rooney's corner past Scott Carson.
West Brom deserved something from the game but United held on to claim all three points and move clear at the top of the table while the Baggies will be looking anxiously towards the relegation zone after four successive defeats. Goals Video West Bromwich Albion 1-2 Manchester United 1 January 2011
West Bromwich Albion vs Manchester United 1-2
West Bromwich 1-2 Manchester United Video Highlights 01-01-2011
0-1 Rooney 3'
1-1 Morrison 14'
1-2 Hernandez 75'
0-1 Rooney 3'
1-1 Morrison 14'
1-2 Hernandez 75'
