Manchester United have retained their seven-point gap at the top of the Premier League with a 2-0 victory over West Bromwich Albion.
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The hosts were ahead in the ninth minute when Ashley Young's cross was turned into his own net by Gareth McAuley.
Young was involved again for United's next chance as he had to readjust his body quickly to latch onto Danny Welbeck's deflected shot. His eventual header, however, floated harmlessly over the bar.
Ben Foster was called upon twice in quick succession soon after, denying Young's half-volley with a fine save before stopping Michael Carrick's poked effort from the resulting corner.
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The hero nearly turned to villain just before the break, however, as Foster took too long on the ball, allowing Welbeck to charge down his clearance, only for the ball to bounce agonisingly wide.
The Baggies had a glorious chance to level the sides 10 minutes after the restart as Chris Brunt's free kick missed everyone until Gabriel Tamas arrived at the back post, only to head straight at David de Gea.
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United almost sealed the victory with just under 10 minutes left as Robin van Persie was played through by Patrice Evra, but his effort was well saved by the feet of Foster.
Van Persie did wrap up the three points in stoppage time, however, with a curling strike from the edge of the area.
Barney Corkhill
