James Morrison, Craig Gardner strikes hand West Bromwich Albion vital win

West Bromwich Albion eased their relegation worries in the Premier League by defeating Crystal Palace 2-0 at Selhurst Park this afternoon.

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The visitors made the perfect start to the game as they took the lead in the second minute as Saido Berahino did well to win a corner.

From the resulting cross, James Morrison rose highest in the area to power Chris Brunt's cross past Julian Speroni.

West Brom had a strong appeal for a penalty turned down when Victor Anichebe raided into box and was caught by leg of Mile Jedinak, but the referee waved the claims away.

Palace almost drew level when the ball fell fortuitously to Yannick Bolasie in the box. The winger tried to poke the ball past Boaz Myhill, but the keeper spread himself well to make a stop with his legs.

The home side upped the ante on Tony Pulis's men as Glenn Murray knocked the ball into the path of Bolasie inside the box, and he attempted a bicycle kick with which he made a great connection. However, Myhill was alert to the danger and made the reaction save.

After the break, West Brom managed to double their lead when Craig Gardner scored his second goal in as many games. He lined up a strike from 30 yards and his effort sailed into the top corner past the outstretched hand of Speroni.

Palace should have a got a goal back immediately as Dwight Gayle headed off the crossbar from a Pape Souare cross.

Berahino nearly sealed the match for the visitors when he weaved his way through the Palace defence and into the area, but his low strike was well saved by Speroni, whose side could not keep the Baggies from victory.