SUNDERLAND, England - West Bromwich Albion emerged with a controversial point following a goalless draw at Sunderland in the Premier League on Saturday.

England manager Roy Hodgson watched as his former side West Brom survived two key first-half decisions in a match between two relegation-threatened teams.

Last man Joleon Lescott avoided a red card despite the referee awarding Sunderland a foul for his early challenge on Danny Graham, although replays suggested little contact.

Sunderland head coach Gus Poyet had pleaded with fans to get behind the team in an open letter earlier in the week and supporters celebrated what they thought was the hosts' opening goal in the 45th. Ricky Alvarez's cross found Adam Johnson, who rounded Ben Foster before stabbing home, only for a harsh offside flag to end his celebrations.