Rooney and Hernandez score as Red Devils beat West Brom 2-1 in EPL
Rooney and Hernandez score as Red Devils beat West Brom 2-1 in EPLu00a0
Wayne Rooney began 2011 in style here on Saturday, scoring one goal and making another as Premier League leaders Manchester United secured a 2-1 win at West Bromwich Albion.
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| Manchester United's Javier Hernandez celebrates with Rio Ferdinand (left), Michael Carrick (right) and Wayne Rooney after scoring the winning goal against West Brom at The Hawthorns on Saturday. PIC/GETTY IMAGES |
Rooney's third-minute header, his first goal in open play since March, gave United an early lead but Albion were soon level courtesy of James Morrison's stunning half-volley.
The home side were unfortunate not to end the half ahead after being denied a clear penalty for a foul by Gary Neville on Graham Dorrans.
However, they were awarded one in the second half when Rio Ferdinand caught Jerome Thomas, only for Peter Odemwingie to fire it wide and, as is so often the case with United, they paid a hefty price when substitute Javier Hernandez headed home a Rooney corner 15 minutes from time.
For United, it was only their second away win of the campaign but the victory was enough to temporarily move them three points clear at the top of the table before rivals Manchester City went into action against Blackpool.
But Albion's fourth straight defeat left them three points above the relegation zone.
Both managers made four changes to their line-ups from mid-week action, with ex-Albion goalkeeper Tomasz Kuszczak, in for Edwin van der Sar, and Neville, the most notable United inclusions.
