Roberto Di Matteo again sang the praises of his thread-bare squad after seeing the Baggies go back to the top of the league. Albion travelled to Wales missing NINE first-team players however out-played Cardiff for long periods.
After Peter Whittingham had scored from the spot on 7 minutes the visitors took control of the game. Following Andwele Slory hitting the post on his full debut, Gianni Zuiverloon made amends for his error against Reading by equalising in first-half stoppage time – his second league goal in as many games.
In the second period Chris Wood missed a glorious chance with a free header from nine yards with Simon Cox also having an effort cleared off the line by Chris Burke.
The draw extended Albion’s unbeaten run away from home to 13 games with Di Matteo claiming the Baggies deserved all three points at the Cardiff City Stadium.
"Right now, straight after the game, we feel a little bit disappointed we didn't win,” the Baggies boss admitted.
"I thought we were the better side tonight and had much more of the game than Cardiff.
"Having said that, a point away from home is always a good result and I was pleased with our performance.
"Their penalty was a difficult decision for the referee.
"Jay Bothroyd was very clever in putting his body across Jonas before going down.
"The referee had to make a decision and it went against us.
"But getting that goal back just before half-time was vital for us.
"It was a great ball by 'Dozza' and Gianni finished it off.
"I thought we were better than them in the second half.
"We controlled the game and had chances, while they didn't really hurt us.
"Woodsy had a great chance and if he'd hit the target I'm sure it would have gone in.
"But we have to remember he is still so young.
"We also had one cleared off the line in injury time.
"Sometimes you just need a little bit of luck so that one of those goes in.
"It's good to be back at the top but it only really matters at the end of the season."