Ahmed Elmohamady’s first goal for Sunderland and another from Nicklas Bendtner spared manager Steve Bruce a mauling as the Black Cats pulled off a timely rescue job at the end of a difficult week.
West Bromwich were leading 2-1 in a frantic first-half when a header by Elmohamady brought Sunderland level in the 26th minute.
The Egyptian international smashed a powerful header home after connecting with a cross from Danish striker Nicklas Bendtner.