Winning goal for JH

By Chris,
January 2 2011

A missed second-half penalty from West Bromwich Albion proved crucial as Manchester United bagged all three points at the Hawthorns. Wayne Rooney and Javier Hernandez were on target in a 2-1 win for Sir Alex Ferguson's men.

Having drawn seven of eight away games in the league this season, the Red Devils were eager to kick-off 2011 with maximum points on the road. 

United got off to the perfect start - taking the lead after only three minutes. Rooney bagged his first goal from open play in almost 10 months with a header to the delight of the travelling fans. 

The Baggies bounced back superbly. They dominated the contest for long periods; levelling up on 14 minutes. James Morrison fired home a stunning strike beyond Tomasz Kuszczak from 20 yards. 

Roberto di Matteo's men looked more dangerous as the game progressed and they were presented with the ideal chance to take the lead mid-way through the second-half.

Jerome Thomas was tripped by Rio Ferdinand as he skipped into the penalty area - but Peter Odemwingie could not take advantage; scuffing a woeful effort wide of the target. 

In typical fashion, United won the game with 15 minutes remaining. Substitute Hernandez rose to nod home Rooney’s corner in front of a jubilant Red Army, his glancing header eluding a helpless Scott Carson.  

A dejected West Brom continued to pile pressure on United but Sir Alex’s men held on for all three points. The table-topping Reds maintain their superb unbeaten top-flight record ahead of Tuesday’s evening clash against Stoke at the Theatre of Dreams. 

Full Time – West Bromwich Albion 1-2 Manchester United
Attendance – 25,499