Albion defender Semi Ajayi scored at both ends in a draw between the division's top two, which kept Leeds above Albion on goal difference and left both sides nine points clear of third-placed Brentford.

Former Rotherham man Ajayi poked in after a goalmouth scramble to give the hosts a second-minute lead, but was then unfortunate to deflect Patrick Bamford's second-half header beyond Baggies goalkeeper Sam Johnstone.

West Brom had the better of the chances when leading 1-0, but Leeds goalkeeper Kiko Casilla made a key save from Matheus Perieira's free-kick and also denied Matt Phillips after the winger had been played through one-on-one.

Leeds brought on Bamford and Barry Douglas at the interval and the double change provided an almost instant reward, with Bamford meeting Jack Harrison's cross for the equaliser.

Both had opportunities for a winner in a dramatic finale, with Johnstone keeping out Bamford's angled shot and Casilla tipping Kyle Edwards' effort over the crossbar.

Despite a relative dip in form towards the end of December for each side, they began 2020 well clear of the Championship's chasing pack and are strong favourites to win automatic promotion to the Premier League.

West Brom have now gone four games without a victory, while Leeds have taken only six points from their past five games.