Manchester: Manchester United threw away a two-goal lead against West Bromwich Albion to draw its third consecutive English Premier League match on Saturday.
Wayne Rooney was dropped to the bench at Old Trafford and the United striker's appearance in the 71st minute failed to prevent a 2-2 draw with the promoted side, despite having a shot cleared off the line.
Rooney's demotion to the bench fueled speculation of a feud with manager Alex Ferguson, who he directly contradicted by denying that he had missed games because he was struggling with an ankle injury.
From the sidelines, Rooney saw his replacement, Javier Hernandez, score after just five minutes after goalkeeper Scott Carson failed to hold onto a free kick from Nani, who added a second midway through the half.
Patrice Evra gifted West Brom a route back into the game five minutes into the second half when Chris Brunt's free kick struck Anderson and then the French defender before beating Van der Sar.
Another calamity five minutes later put the visitors level. Goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar dropped Brunt's cross and ball fell behind him to Somen Tchoyi, who tapped into an empty net.
It is the third time this season in the Premier League that United has thrown away a 2-0 lead to draw a match. The 18-time champions have won just three of their opening eight matches and drawn five.
While a point was enough to move United up to third, it can be overtaken by city rival Manchester City, which also has 14 points ahead of Sunday's match at Blackpool.
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