Poor Show in the Potteries

Dele-Bashiru chasing a ball

It is not a bad journey to Stoke, so it wasn’t too early a start.  I met Jacque on the train at Milton Keynes.  At the same time, we were joined by lads, of various ages, with their carrier bags full of beer.  The club had recommended an away pub and, when we reached Stoke, the mini-hoolies all seemed to be heading there, while we headed to our usual pre-match hostelry.  We arrived at 11:40, but it was already open, and Graham was there with a beer.  It had changed ownership since last time we were there.  It used to be the White Star and had beer from Titanic Brewery.  It was now called The King’s Way and had a disappointingly uninteresting selection of beers.  There was one constant as it still had a sign in the window that designated it as home fans only.  Sadly, what used to be a cracking pub with decent beer and food and a lovely atmosphere had been completely ruined.  We ordered food that took a half hour to come and, when it arrived, it appeared that my lasagne had been sitting under a warming lamp for some time as it was rock hard.  They had sprinkled some cheese on top that hadn’t melted.  It looked revolting and was completely inedible, so I sent it back.  Thankfully, the replacement was much better.  The bar staff were lovely and very apologetic, but that was the only positive.  Apart, of course, from the company as we were joined by the Happy Valley Horns.  Angela has been exploring areas around away games, something that I have been meaning to do, and regaled us with the beauty and the history of the area, despite how run down the town is.  She had us all considering spending more time in the Potteries.

Andrews takes a throw

We left in plenty of time to take a leisurely walk along the canal to the ground.  It is a decent walk, but you can spot where you have to exit for the ground, as there are a a couple of barges moored at that point selling drinks and filled oatcakes.

Team news was that Ismaël had made one enforced change from the Plymouth game with Livermore in for the injured Sierralta.  So, the starting XI was Bachmann; Morris, Hoedt, Porteous, Andrews; Dele-Bashiru, Livermore, Louza; Martins, Bayo, Sema.  Ben Wilmot started for Stoke and was cheered by the visiting Hornets.  Sadly, a number in the away end booed the taking of the knee (by both teams) before kick-off.

The first half started very slowly.  The first ball of significance into the box, came from a Stoke corner and was met with a firm header from Morris.  The next chance came from another Stoke corner, the ball reached Thompson outside the area, his shot was well over the target.  Nearly 20 minutes had elapsed before the first Watford attack worthy of the name.  Louza played a lovely ball over the top to Morris who put in a deep cross that was repelled.  Morris then had Watford’s first shot of the half which went well wide with Bayo chasing in.

Louza takes a free kick

The first shot on target came from the home side as Vidigal broke into the box and took a low shot that was comfortably gathered by Bachmann.  Vidigal threatened again as he broke into the box, but he was struggling to control the ball and Porteous was able to get back to make the block.  The home side then had a chance from a Johnson corner, Louza failed to clear allowing McNally to take a shot that was blocked.  The first booking of the game went to McNally for taking Martins down.  Just before half time, Ismaël was forced into a substitution as Morris went down, possibly with a hamstring injury.  He was replaced by Asprilla, with Sema going to left back.  Into time added on and Johnson went on a run before taking a shot from the edge of the area that flew wide of the target.  In the 1^st minute of added time, the Hornets finally had an attempt on target as a Louza free kick was met by the head of Hoedt, but it was an easy catch for Travers.  There was one last chance for the Hornets to take the lead before the break when Bayo fed Andrews, but the shot was blocked, and the half ended goalless.

It had been a very poor half of football.  The Hornets could barely string two passes together and, as has been seen repeatedly, could not cope with Stoke’s physical approach.  The home side dominated possession but didn’t do anything with it and neither keeper had to make a save worthy of the name.   

Morris prepares to take a free kick as Martins looks on

At the break I caught up with Ross from Ayrshire.  Despite the poor football, he was enjoying his afternoon out, basking in the sun which he never sees at home.

Ismaël made a change at the break bringing Koné on in place of Dele-Bashiru.  The best chance of the game so far came in the first minute of the second half, Martins beat Hoever to put in a cross that was blocked, the ball came out to Sema who broke into the box before cutting the ball back, it took a deflection before reaching Asprilla who could only head over the bar.  The Hornets launched another good move as Martins broke forward before playing the ball back to Koné, he probably should have tried a shot but instead moved the ball on to Asprilla who shot over the bar.  Watford created another decent chance as Sema played a ball over the top to Martins, he passed to Koné who fed Bayo who returned the ball to Martins who hit a shot that Travers had to get down to save.  After the tedium of the first half, this had been a great spell, so it was very disappointing that Stoke scored from their first attack of the half.  A cross from the right by Hoever was flicked on to Vidigal who chested it down before shooting past Bachmann.  It was a decent strike.  The first booking of the game for the Hornets went to Koné for a robust tackle on McNally.  The resultant free kick flew wide of the far post.

Koné and Asprilla prepare for a corner

Ismaël made a double substitution just after the hour mark replacing Louza and Livermore, who had both been ineffective, with Chakvetadze and Kayembe.  The home side then made a change of their own as Rose made way for Tymon.  Stoke created the next chance of the game with a shot from distance by Thompson that cleared the bar.  We then had our first sighting of Ince in a Watford shirt as he replaced Martins.  He was roundly booed by the Stoke fans, and it seemed very strange not to be booing him myself as he has so often been a thorn in our side when in opposition.  The Hornets had a great chance for an equaliser when Chakvetadze played in Asprilla who got himself into position and unleashed a shot that was stopped by a great save from Travers.  The Hornets threatened again with a shot from distance by Sema that was just wide of the far post.  The next caution of the game went to Thompson who was booked for stopping a break by Chakvetadze.  There were shouts for a penalty when Sema found the Georgian in the box, and he went down under a challenge.  The referee was unimpressed, and it would have been a soft penalty if given.  With 10 minutes remaining, the home side made a triple substitution with Vidigal, Thompson and Wesley replaced by Chiquinho, Pearson and Mmaee.  The home side had a chance to increase their lead when Ince gave the ball away to Mmaee who advanced and hit a shot that was deflected for a corner.  There was 5 minutes of added time, but the closest that the Hornets got to salvaging a point was an Andrews shot from outside the box that was blocked.  So, Watford suffered their first league defeat of the season and were booed by a number of the travelling Hornets.

Gathering for a corner

The second half had been better than the first, but it had still been a game of little quality.  There were some decent passing moves in the second half, but a reluctance to shoot and some decent defending by the home side meant that chances were at a premium.  The Stoke goal was a rare moment of quality and it was a shame that it came during our best spell of the game when we were finally getting on top.

We gathered for the walk back to town and were joined by Olly.  More than one of our group commented on the level of anger exhibited by some of our fans.  There was no lack of effort in the performance, but any defeat is now greeted with a fury from some who think we should be winning week in, week out.  Those of us who have lived through much worse times than this cannot get quite so worked up about a defeat away to a tough team like Stoke.

We had time for a beer before getting our trains home.  I had spotted a bar close to the station which was serving Titanic beer.  It turned out to be a lovely spot attached to the station.  The barman told Ashley that they were disappointed that they weren’t still running the White Star.  He assured them that we were too.  Our couple of pints there finished the afternoon rather nicely. Next up we have Blackburn at home on a Sunday which, annoyingly, clashes with the women’s first game of the season.  I hope that is a rarity as I would like to see more of the women this season.  I also hope that we see a return to the form that we have seen at home so far this season.  The fast-paced attacking was sadly missing on Saturday meaning a huge drop in the entertainment value.  I hope to see it back next week.

The Bilic Era Starts with an Emphatic Win

The Meriden Centre on the Taylor Trek

Lunchtime on a Sunday has to be the worst time for a football match.  Scheduling a fixture on lunchtime on a Sunday in Stoke the day after a rail strike just added insult to injury.

The previous Sunday I had been in Watford early in order to take part in the Taylor Trek.  I walked 18.5 miles (actually a bit more as we took an unintended detour) to raise money for WFC Community Sports and Education Trust.  It was a lovely day out exploring the Hertfordshire countryside and any pain that I felt at the end disappeared when Rita Taylor gave me both my medal and a big hug.

Still smiling after 18.5 miles

On Monday we received the news that Rob Edwards had been relieved of his duties.  I was very sad to hear the news, although I was also surprised at the level of anger from Watford fans.  The team had been booed off at most of the games this season and Rob was confronted by a couple of very angry fans at the end of the Blackburn game.  If fans are going to express their displeasure in such a way, it cannot be a surprise when the owners take decisive action.  I try to take the positives from games, but even I was finding it really hard to do so and had not enjoyed the football that I had seen so far this season.  I was very happy that the replacement was Slaven Bilić.  He seemed like a great appointment, an opinion shared by my West Ham supporting cousin who adores him.

The return of Louza

Following the rail strike on Saturday, and the general unreliability of Avanti trains at present, I wasn’t going to risk of the train that would get me to Stoke in time for kick-off being cancelled, so opted to take the club coach, which was leaving Watford at 7am.  I am not an early riser so I decided to stay in Watford overnight on Saturday as, even doing that, meant my alarm was set for 6am.  It was dark when I left the hotel for the short walk to Occupation Road.  There were a good few complaints about the departure time, but we set off in good spirits and, once the sun rose, it appeared to be a beautiful day.  I was expecting a stop on the way, but we headed straight for the stadium and were in the car park at 9:40, which was a little annoying as the turnstiles weren’t due to open until 10:30.  Thankfully there was a burger van open so I had a coffee and a bacon roll as I contemplated my next move. 

The view along the canal

After a quick chat with Don, who had remained on the coach, I decided that, as I had so much time, I would take a walk along the canal.  I have taken that route on the way from the town to the ground on a number of occasions so, after asking directions from a helpful programme seller, I set off for a stroll.  When I reached the canal, the refreshment barges that are moored at the exit for the stadium were already doing a good trade.  I had intended to walk towards town, but I have no sense of direction so it was no surprise that I actually headed off in the opposite direction.  This turned out to be a lucky mistake as the walk was a lot more attractive than I remember, past fields and rather nice looking canalside properties.  After a lovely walk, being greeted by dog walkers, I was back at the stadium in plenty of time for kick-off.  I had a quick chat with Chris Hall about the goings on during the week.  It was probably not the best time for his appointment as Supporter Liaison Officer to have been announced.  Then Jacque and Adam arrived and we went into the ground to meet up with the Women of Watford group.

Gaspar on the ball

Team news was that Slaven Bilić had made four changes from the Sunderland game.  Troost-Ekong, Cathcart and João Pedro were absent due to injury and Hause wasn’t thought to be fit enough to play 90 minutes.  They were replaced by Kabasele, Sierralta, Sarr and Gaspar.  So, the starting line-up was Bachmann; Kamara, Sierralta, Kabasele, Gaspar; Kayembe, Choudhury; Sema, Asprilla, Sarr; Davis.  The most exciting news was the inclusion of Louza on the bench.  Ben Wilmot started for the home side and the announcement of his name was greeted with a very warm round of applause from the travelling Hornets.

The Hornets had the first chance of note when Sema received a pass from Davis and crossed for Sarr who shot wide of the near post under pressure from a defender.  Already we were seeing a more attacking approach from the Hornets, Bachmann was launching balls upfield and we were yet to see the ball passed along the back line.  The home side then had a decent chance of their own when, from a throw-in, Smallbone crossed for Flint whose header flew wide of the target.  The Hornets took the lead on 12 minutes when Kamara put in a lovely cross and Sarr ran into an acre of space to head it home.  If there was to be any dissent in the travelling support, that quelled it.  Up to that point the anti-Pozzo protest had amounted to three or four kids chanting “We want Gino out” and giving up when nobody joined in. 

Asprilla, Sema and Kamara

The first booking of the game went to Fosu-Henry for pulling back Kamara as he tried to escape.  The Hornets should have had a second when Sarr fed Kayembe who hit a shot from distance that would have been on target had it not bounced off Davis and out.  At this point the travelling Hornets were chanting “You’re getting sacked in the morning” at Alex Neil and “How sh*t must you be he’s still got a job.”  The home side looked to hit back when Delap latched on to a through ball in the box, Bachmann came out to make the save but appeared to be injured in the process.  The Stoke players had no sympathy and one of them pulled him to his feet. He was mercilessly booed from that moment on (with no discernible effect on his performance).  Kamara did brilliantly to fight off the attentions of the defenders and get a cross in for Sarr whose header hit the post, he latched on to the rebound but his shot was saved.  The Hornets had another great chance when Flint dwelled too long on the ball, Sarr nicked it and played it back to Davis, the ball reached Sema via Asprilla, but the shot was turned on to the post by the Stoke keeper, Bursik.  The hosts had a chance to draw level on the half hour when Smallbone crossed for Delap but the header flew wide of the target.  Bachmann was then booked for timewasting, it was not a great surprise as he had been warned.  The home side had a great chance to equalise when Delap broke into the box but Bachmann came out to meet him, narrowing the angle, and his shot found the roof of the net.  There was some excitement when we saw Louza head for the changing rooms before everyone else, would he be coming on after the break?  In the last action of note in the half a lovely ball from Kabasele to Davis came to nothing when a robust tackle from Flint prevented him progressing.  Davis did not take kindly to this and there was a bout of handbags, but it all calmed down and the whistle went with the Hornets a goal up after a very enjoyable half of football.

Celebrating Davis’s goal

Bachmann came out for the start of the second half and, as he took his place in goal in front of the home fans, was loudly booed leading to cheers and support from the travelling Hornets.  The visitors had a great chance to increase their lead at the start of the second half when a free kick from Gaspar was met by the head of Sierralta, who really should have found the net, but his effort just cleared the bar.  Asprilla was booked after kicking the ball away in frustration when he had battled through a tackle and his opponent went down in a manner that seemed rather unlikely given the size of Asprilla.  The resultant free kick from Baker was heading for the top corner, but Bachmann got a strong hand to it and pushed it clear.  Baker threatened again with a shot that flew high and wide.  Smallbone was the next to try his luck but his shot was blocked.  The next caution went to Delap who was booked for dissent after being penalised for a foul on Kabasele.  The Hornets had another decent chance to increase their lead after a great ball found Sema on the left, he crossed for Sarr but the header deflected off Davis.  Just before the hour mark, Bilić made his first change and it was the welcome return of Louza in place of Asprilla.  The Hornets impressed with some lovely interplay between Kamara and Davis on the left wing, but the cross was caught by Bursik.  

Kamara very happy after Bayo’s goal

The second Watford goal came soon after.  Choudhury flicked the ball into the box for Davis whose shot was blocked, the ball broke to Sema whose first attempt was blocked by Wilmot, but he poked in the follow-up to send the travelling Hornets wild.  Ken was booked for taking his shirt off during the celebration, but it was well worth it.  After a couple of worrying chances for the home side, the second goal certainly calmed the nerves.   Sierralta was the next to incur the referee’s wrath when he was booked for a push on Delap.  The home side had a chance to reduce the deficit when a corner was cleared only as far as Smallbone, but the shot was well over the bar.  Then Louza played the perfect pass to Sema who played in Davis, but his shot was terrible and straight at the keeper.  With 20 minutes remaining, the home side made their first substitution replacing Gayle with Campbell.  The Hornets threatened again from a short corner, Sarr crossed for Davis whose header was just wide.  The hosts then made a second change bringing Clarke on in place of Sterling.  With 12 minutes remaining the Hornets found themselves three up after Sema won the ball in midfield and fed Sarr who broke forward before finding Davis who beat a defender before hitting a shot across Bursik into the far corner.  It should have been four a couple of minutes later when Sema went on a run before playing the ball back to Louza but his shot was just wide of the far post.  Bilić then made his second change bringing Bayo on for Sarr.  The hosts had a chance to pull one back when Campbell received the ball in the Watford box, but Bachmann was down to make the save.  Sema went on another run and should have taken a shot but tried to pull the ball back and it was blocked for a corner.  This was taken short, Louza received the ball back and played a magnificent cross to the far post where Bayo stretched to volley home.  The goal was a thing of beauty.  Bilić made a late double change replacing Sema and Davis with Hungbo and Gosling.  Sema left the pitch at the opposite side to the dugouts, so walked past the away fans on his way back, he was warmly applauded and returned the compliment.  The Hornets could have had a fifth but the lovely cross from Louza was just too far in front of Hungbo.  So the final whistle went on a four goal victory by the Hornets and nobody in the away end cared about having had to get up at the crack of dawn and the disruption to the travel.

Challenging at a corner

Bilić was never going to “do an Edwards” at the end of the game but, as he approached the tunnel, which was right in front of the away fans, he waved, applauded us and gave a fist pump.  The players stayed around a bit longer, they had a lot to celebrate.  Several shirts were thrown into the crowd.  Kamara took three attempts as he comically (and I assumed deliberately) dropped his shirt twice before it finally reached someone in the away stand.  Louza was the last to launch his shirt into the crowd and danced a joyous little jig that showed that he was as happy to be back as we were to have him back.

Back to the coach for the journey home during which most people seemed to be rewatching the goals with big smiles on their faces.

So the Bilić era started with a result that was as unexpected as it was enjoyable.  The starting line-up had players in their favoured positions and the change to four at the back was a positive that allowed the attacking players more freedom.  From the kick-off there had been a more attacking approach than we saw under Edwards and it paid dividends.  Sarr gave his best performance in some time contributing a goal and an assist.  Sema was everywhere and thoroughly deserved the ovation that he received after being substituted.  Kamara was awarded the Man of the Match award and his performance was a joy.  But the highlight of the afternoon was the return of Louza, who was absolutely magnificent.  We were all dancing a jig after watching his performance.

We host Swansea at Vicarage Road, which will be a sterner test than Stoke were but, if the players perform as they did on Sunday, we are in for a fun evening.

Missed Chances and Flukey Goals

Sierralta and Elliot in conversation

For once my travel planning went well and I arrived at Euston just as the 5:09 was about to leave, so was in Watford pleasingly early.  During the day, some of our group that had been intending to go to the game had to drop out due to various ailments meaning that the attendance at the West Herts was likely to be sparse.  I was saved with a guest appearance from Mike, a friend from City Orns, who was also without his usual football mates, so deigned to come and have a drink with me.  The turn out overall was very sparse in the bar, so I was not expecting much of a crowd.

We left in plenty of time for the game and there was no queue at the Rookery turnstiles, but they seemed to have upped the security.  The guy checking bags was complaining that he couldn’t see the contents.  Surely, he should have been equipped with a torch for an evening game.  Then I was told that I would have to be patted down.  I asked why they had started this and was told that they have been doing it for several weeks, which was clearly not the case as this was the first time that I had seen anyone being searched at those turnstiles.

Louza and debutant Tufan

Team news was that there would be debuts for Rob Elliot and Ozan Tufan.  The starting line-up was Elliot; Masina, Sierralta, Kabasele, Ngakia; Louza, Tufan, Gosling; Sema, Fletcher, Hernández.  Ben Wilmot was starting for Stoke and was given a really good reception by the Watford fans.

Prior to kick-off, there was a minute’s applause for Jimmy Greaves which was enthusiastically supported by all in the ground.

The game kicked off and there were early chances for both teams when, first Doughty for the visitors, and then Tufan for the Hornets blazed shots over the bar.  Stoke created the next chance after Tymon beat Louza and found Powell who shot wide of the near post.  The visitors opened the scoring on 25 minutes.  It came from a mistake from Ngakia who was trying to shepherd the ball out near the corner flag, Doughty nicked it off him and crossed for Powell who turned the ball in at the near post.  The Hornets tried to hit back after a lovely run from Hernández (who I failed to identify for 40 minutes due to his newly dark hair) who found Gosling who set up Masina for a shot that was parried by Davies, the ball found its way back to Gosling whose shot required a decent save from Davies to preserve the Stoke lead. 

Gathering for a corner

The Hornets threatened again when Sema crossed to the far post for Gosling whose header flew over the bar.  Watford should have drawn level after what looked like a mishit shot from Ngakia was headed back across goal by Kabasele to Masina, who had the goal at his mercy, but shot over the bar.  At the other end, Tymon hit a low shot from distance, but Elliot was down to make the save.  Then a cross from Hernández was headed clear to Masina who shot wide of the target.  The Hornets had another decent chance from a corner, when Kabasele’s header was blocked and the ball fell to Ngakia but the shot was over the bar.  The visitors had the last chance of the half, also from a corner, but Batth headed wide and we reached half time with the Hornets a goal down.

It was World Alzheimer’s Day so, at half time, a film about the Golden Memories scheme was shown on the big screen.  It was really lovely.  It is such an amazing project that is doing so much good for fans with dementia.  It was especially lovely to see Rita Taylor and Luther Blissett working as volunteers sharing memories with the fans.

Louza congratulates Fletcher on his goal as Sierralta looks very happy

The Hornets had an excellent chance at the start of the second half as Hernández crossed for Fletcher whose header was on target but Davies, again, managed to make the save.  The Hornets had another decent chance after a lovely cross-field pass from Louza found Hernández on the right, he advanced before cutting into the box to hit a shot that was deflected over the bar.  Another lovely move deserved more as Tufan played the ball out to Hernández who crossed for Fletcher, but his header was easily saved by Davies.  Watford threatened again as Masina crossed for Tufan whose header was dropping for Sema until Davies intervened.  Hernández was a complete menace at this stage and started the next move, playing the ball out to Tufan who crossed for Gosling whose header flew just past the top corner.  Just after the hour mark Fletcher found Hernández in the box, his shot was blocked by Davies, but dropped nicely for Fletcher who back heeled it over the line.  I checked that the lino wasn’t flagging before celebrating.  Michael in the row in front then checked that there was no VAR, so I knew I wasn’t the only one.  There was a double substitution for Stoke as Sima and Clucas replaced Surridge and Doughty.  The Hornets really should have taken the lead after Masina crossed to the back post for Hernández whose header rebounded back off the post and fell to Fletcher whose shot was deflected onto the same post.  How did that stay out? 

Gosling and Louza in conversation

Each side then made a change with Powell making way for Sawyers for the visitors and Sissoko replacing Louza for the Hornets.  Then, in the 80^th minute, out of nowhere, Watford were behind again when Clucas hit a curling shot from the edge of the area that took a slight deflection before nestling in the far corner.  It was their first real chance of the half and very frustrating after what had been a wonderful spell from the Hornets.  Almost immediately, Dennis, who had been preparing to come on for a while, replaced Gosling.  He was involved in the next attack after Sema played the ball back to him, but his shot was blocked.  The visitors threatened to increase their lead when Clucas hit a curling shot from the edge of the area that bounced back off the crossbar.  Stoke scored their third with a total fluke as Tymon crossed, it flew over Elliot and somehow the ball was in the top corner.  I was a bit shell-shocked at this point and many in the home crowd decided that they had seen enough.  The Hornets had a really good chance to pull one back after Sema advanced down the left and cut the ball back for Sissoko, but the shot was blocked by Dennis!!  It really wasn’t our day.  Then Tufan tried a shot from distance, but Davies got a hand to it.  Into time added on, Dennis won a free kick, which was taken by Tufan who blazed it over the bar and into the Rookery.

A dark haired Cucho with Fletcher and Tufan

At full time, there was a lot of grumbling, but Alex, who sits behind me, was very philosophical and echoed my feelings that we had played well and been really unlucky on the day.  We should have finished the chances that we had, but sometimes the post and the opposition keeper frustrate you.  Also, while Stoke’s first goal was due to a mistake, the other two came out of nothing, with the third appearing to be a complete fluke.  Watford had been very positive going forward and Cucho had a magnificent game, proving that blonds don’t always have more fun.  He worked well with Fletcher, who got into some great positions and deserved his goal.  Tufan’s debut was impressive and, if he continues in that vein, he will soon become a fan favourite.  Ngakia was at fault for the first goal, but he didn’t let it affect him and put in a decent performance after that.  So, there were plenty of positives to take out of a game which was far better than the scoreline suggested.

Also, in contrast to the Palace game, I arrived at the Junction to see that the 10:05 (fast train to Euston) was sitting on Platform 9.  I boarded with a couple of minutes to spare, so my journey home was painless and I was indoors at a very civilised hour.

There is no harm in no longer having the distraction of this cup which, given the attendance was only 8,421, is hardly a priority for the fans.  We can now look forward to the visit of Newcastle on Saturday and the hope that we can build on the positives from the Norwich game.

The Return to The Vic: Watford 0 Cardiff 1

Back in Vicarage Road after far too long

And so, the day that had been so long awaited dawned.  After the second lockdown had limited my weekend entertainment to walks on the Heath, it felt very strange to wake on Saturday morning with plans for the day.  The fact that those plans included a visit to Vicarage Road were almost too much to take in.

I thought back to the last game I saw live, away at Palace almost 9 months ago to the day. I had been jet-lagged after a transatlantic overnight flight and the game had been disappointing.  Dominance without scoring, a goal on the break and the opposition then sitting back defending which we found impossible to break down.  It was a dreadful game, but the memory of the day is the time that I spent with some lovely friends.  The football this season has followed a lot of those same characteristics, but the solitary viewing just makes it worse.

I hate watching football on television, so the past few months of football viewing have not been enjoyable.  Although I have to say that Hive Live has been brilliant entertainment.  The commentary has also been excellent.  I am a long-time fan of Jon Marks and the addition of Tommy Mooney has been a masterstroke.  He knows *everyone* in the lower divisions.  I have loved hearing about the young players that are the children of his friends or know his kids and have been in his garden.  But that entertainment does not make up for not being in the ground.  There is nothing like being at a game and every time that I saw the lads come out of the tunnel before kick-off, my heart broke that I wasn’t there.

The GT stand looked amazing

Wednesday’s dull stalemate was not a lot of fun to watch and the tension had been ratcheted up when Emma mentioned in the pre-show that the results of the ticket ballot would come out that evening.  I watch the games on my computer monitor, so also had the laptop screen open and was constantly refreshing (as I had been all day) to see if the long-awaited email had arrived.  Towards the end of the game, Jon mentioned in commentary that they would be sent out after the game, so all my refreshing had been a waste of time.  The group that I meet at games have been having post-match Zoom calls as compensation for the fact that we can’t get together in person for a drink.  During this call first Mike, then Richard got their emails telling them that they were going to the game.  Then mine arrived.  Fuzz asked whether the screen had frozen, but it was me who had frozen as I realised that I would be going to the game.  Jacque also got the thumbs up, but there was disappointment for Alice, Cate and Nigel who were not picked out of the hat.

Troy directing proceedings

The next day I spoke to Don Fraser, who had also secured a ticket.  He was concerned that he would not be able to remember the words and I am still not sure whether he meant for chants or his ritual admonishment of the officials (I suspect that it was the latter).  I reassured him that it would all come back once he was in the ground.

The rituals of the day were going to differ from my usual habits, but I tried to do as much as possible to ensure that certain superstitions were followed.  Recent results have indicated that my lucky mug is the one featuring John McClelland, so that was used for my morning coffee.  My clothes were carefully chosen to ensure that I wasn’t wearing opposition colours.  I charged my camera, found the Watford mask that my friend, Farzana, had made out of a duvet cover from the Hornet Shop, packed my home shirt and a notebook and pen and I was ready for the game.

Sarah, Richard and I at the museum

I moved house a couple of months ago, so I had a new route to Vicarage Road.  Despite the train journey being so much easier that before, I decided to drive and was happy to see the first sign to Watford a couple of miles from my home.  Some time ago, I read an interview with the lovely Gary Speed in which he said that he always put “The Green, Green Grass of Home” on to play in his car as he crossed the border into Wales.  As I was living abroad at the time and a bit homesick, I adapted this to singing “Hertfordshire, la, la, la” as I pass the sign indicating the Hertfordshire border.  When I passed the sign on the M1, I welled up as I burst into song.

I had arranged to meet my friend, Sarah, at the Museum.  While I was there, a number of the Proud Hornets arrived.  As it was the rainbow laces game, they were out in force.  I was pleased to have packed my laces in my bag and I bought one of their badges to add to those already on my scarf.  Watford Treasury maestro, Colin Payne, popped in with his daughter, so it was a lovely surprise to see them.  Then Richard arrived.  The last time I had seen Richard was after the Palace game when he hosted us for dinner.  It was so odd seeing friends after so long and not being able to give them a hug, but just seeing them was lovely.

Ben Foster

We had arranged to meet Mike and Jacque at the Ebb Tide to get some lunch.  While there, I saw a number of familiar faces including a guy that I see at all games who removed his mask to give me a beaming smile.

Walking down Vicarage Road again was just wonderful.  I stopped for a chat with Mick Smithers, our Police liaison officer.  He has had Saturdays off for nine months now.  He said that the crowd that had arrived so far were just lovely.  Observing the protocol and obviously so happy to be there.

I had received a text from sweetie man, Glenn, but not been able to catch up with him, so was delighted when he and Amy appeared, not just because I was given a bag of pork scratchings and a crème egg.  Having those in my bag made it feel much more like a normal matchday.

I joined the queue to get in.  When the green light came on at the turnstile and I moved through into the Rookery, my heart nearly burst with the excitement.  I had to stop for a moment to take it all in.  Inside the Rookery, there were a whole lot of portaloos, so I was rather relieved to be told that the ladies was open.

Sarr and Joao Pedro battling forward

The first view of the Vicarage Road pitch brought tears to my eyes.  When I found my seat I was delighted to find that, in addition to Richard sitting two rows in front of me, Elvis Mark was in the row between us, so there were friendly faces to chat with during the game.

Team news was four changes from Wednesday night with Cathcart, Femenía, Chalobah and Quina making way for Troost-Ekong, Wilmot, Cleverley and Sema.  So, the starting line-up was Foster, Ngakia, Kabasele, Troost-Ekong, Wilmot, Sarr, Garner, Cleverley, Sema, Deeney and João Pedro.  I was thrilled to see Cleverley and Sema back in the team and there was the added bonus that Hughes and Capoue were both on the bench.

As I took in the pre-match atmosphere, taking some videos to send to family and friends who were sitting at home, Richard turned around to say something and then seeing me, beside myself, decided he would give me a moment.  The sound of Z-cars just about finished me off.  There were cheers as the players took to the pitch and came over towards the Rookery end.  Ben Foster had his GoPro in his hand and was beaming as he filmed the crowd behind the goal.  I was so distracted by the occasion, that I missed seeing the players taking the knee.  But I reengaged in time for kick-off.

Ngakia on the ball

The first half chance of the game fell to Sarr whose shot from distance was blocked.  At the other end, a poor throw from Foster gave the ball away allowing Wilson a chance to open the scoring, but Garner was on hand to make the block.  Cardiff had a great chance to take an early lead when Ralls hit a lovely curling shot from the edge of the box, but it flew just wide of the target.  There was some lively play from the Hornets and I found myself yelling encouragement until an enthusiastic shout of “Come on, Troy” led to me spitting in Mark’s direction.  My apology was met with a smile and “You’ve really missed this, haven’t you.” Oh Yes!  A lovely passing move from the Hornets finished with Ngakia feeding João Pedro in the box, his shot flew across the goal and just wide of the far post.   It was a great chance.  At this point I heard Don Fraser for the first time.  From my seat halfway up at the far GT end of the Rookery, I could only see legs and wheels in the disabled enclosure, but I could certainly hear him.  Cardiff had another chance as a cross from Wilson was met by Moore whose header cleared the bar.  Then a terrible shot from distance by Wilson flew high and wide and was greeted with a chant of “What the f-ing hell was that?”  It was so good to be back in a crowd.   Sarr impressed tracking back and forcing Bennett to concede a goal kick.

Wilmot on the attack

Another Cardiff cross was met with a good defensive header from Wilmott.  Then a wonderful cross from Sarr had to be punched clear by the Cardiff keeper, Smithies, who collided with Morrison who needed treatment.  A robust challenge by Garner led to a free kick from Wilson that was met by the head of Moore, but it was an easy catch for Foster.  On the half hour mark, a cross from Ngakia was claimed by Smithies.  At the other end, a shot from Ojo was blocked by Ekong.  There was a nervous moment when Ekong knocked Harris off the ball in the box, but the visitors’ shouts for a penalty were ignored.  Another chance for Cardiff as a corner was met by Morrison who headed well wide of the target.  Just before half time the visitors took the lead, the ball dropped following a corner and Moore finished past Foster.  It was a bit scrappy, but the Hornets were behind.  It was very strange to see players celebrating with absolutely nobody in the ground cheering.  Watford had a chance to hit back with a free kick from a dangerous position.  Garner delivered a lovely cross, but there was no Watford player able to get a touch on it.  The half time whistle went to boos from the Rookery. We had the majority of the possession in the half, but the goal action had mostly been from the visitors, whose only shot on target had led to the goal.

Handbags after Cleverley and Ralls clashed

The half time interview was with Alec Chamberlain who talked about his happy memories of his time at Watford, gaining two promotions while working under GT.  He is now scouting for Sean at Burnley.  He said that he loved travelling the country, but was doing most of his scouting watching players on his laptop at the moment, which isn’t as much fun.  He is also working with the Welsh U-21s.  He promised that he wasn’t looking at any of the Watford players.

The Watford players were back on the pitch early for the second half.  Ivić made a substitution at half time bringing Femenía on for Ngakia.  The substitute made an early impression, having been released by Kabasele, Kiko put in a lovely cross to the far post that Troy just failed to reach.  Sarr was then brought down in the box, but it was no penalty.  Watford won a free kick when Cleverley was fouled by Ralls, there was a bit of afters as the two tangled, but it came to nothing.  Garner hit the free kick into the wall, the ball rebounded to him and he was flattened by a sliding tackle from Ojo who was booked for his trouble.  Then Cleverley had a shot that was blocked and rebounded at an odd angle and almost dropped for Deeney who was not expecting it, so was slow to react, allowing Cardiff to clear.

Kabasele, Foster and Cheverley

An attempt by Sarr to break forward was stopped by a cynical block from Ralls who went into the referee’s book.  Watford made a double substitution bringing Hughes and Quina on for Cleverley and Sema.  It was so good to see Will on the field again.  But it was Quina who made the immediate impact as a lovely ball over the top from Kabasele reached him at the far post, but his shot was blocked for a corner that was played out to Sarr, who blasted his shot over the target.  It felt like a missed opportunity.  With 20 minutes to go, the visitors made a change, replacing Harris with Hoilett.  Kiko then had a couple of chances, first he put in a lovely cross that was cut out, then his follow-up shot was saved by Smithies who conceded a corner.  The delivery from Garner was met by the head of João Pedro, but his effort was straight at Smithies.  Sarr went on a brilliant run, exchanging passes with Femenía before crossing for Deeney, but Nelson was on hand to put the ball out for a corner.  Sarr and Femenía were linking up really well and a lovely ball from Kiko released Ismaila who was brought down on the edge of the box.  The resulting free kick from Garner was headed clear by Moore.  Each team made a substitute in the last quarter of an hour.  First Pack replaced Ojo for the visitors, then Perica came on for Wilmot for the Hornets.  The Hornets continued to look for the equaliser as Quina tried a shot from outside the area, it was blocked but Deeney won the header and tried to feed Perica, who was offside.  At the other end Ralls unleashed a shot that was high and wide.

Will Hughes back in action

Hughes had a brilliant chance from a corner, but his low shot flew wide of the near post when he should have done better.  The visitors then made three substitutions in an attempt to waste some time.  Ralls, Moore and Wilson were replaced by Bamba, Glatzel and Whyte.  There were half-hearted shouts for a penalty when Perica appeared to be sandwiched between two defenders and went down in the box, the referee awarded a free kick to Cardiff and booked the Watford man for diving.  While I could accept that he didn’t think that it was a penalty, it certainly wasn’t a dive.  As the clock reached 90 minutes, people started leaving.  There was four minutes of added time for the Hornets to salvage a point and they had a couple of chances.  First Quina won a free kick after a foul by Whyte.  He took it himself and his delivery was awful, flying over the bar.  Despite being asked to stay in our seats to allow for a controlled exit, people were streaming out at this point.  There was one last chance as a Sarr cross found Perica, but he was under the ball and looped it over when he really should have found the net.  A great disappointment.

Sarr and Femenia

The final whistle went on Watford’s first home defeat of the season which was greeted by boos.  I am sure that the players were delighted to have fans back in the stands telling them exactly what they thought of the performance.

I stayed to applaud the team off the pitch and was rewarded with the sight of Troy coming over to chat to a family in the disabled enclosure and then giving them his shirt. At the other end of the pitch, I am told that Ben had given a child his gloves.

It wasn’t a great game.  We were much better in the second half when Femenia’s pace certainly added something and some of his interplay with Sarr was a joy to watch.  Quina and Hughes also made a difference.  Quina was really lively and looked dangerous.  Hughes was solid and was encouraging more forward play.  But, despite having a lot more shots in the second half, we only managed one on target and that was, yet again, our downfall.  But, as I commented at the ground, rubbish football is so much better when you are actually in the ground.  I know that at home you have the option to do something else, but I don’t, so I just have the deflation of watching a screen knowing that my shouts of encouragement are only heard by the neighbours and feeling rather deflated.  It was such a pleasure to be in the ground and to share the experience with friends.  I have really missed that.

I should also mention the efforts that were made by the Watford staff to ensure that we could attend the game safely.  The seating was beautifully distanced and the stewards were very helpful in making sure that we got in and out in a safe manner.

Given that my getting a ticket for this game means I won’t be in the draw for the remainder of the games this year, the fixture list means that my next opportunity to see a game live will be in mid-January.  Despite the poor performance today, I will be sending in my application as soon as feasible and just hope that the virus will have abated to an extent that more of us can attend in person.

There is nothing like live football with a crowd.  I am so glad that it is back.

Bemoaning the Return of Son

Take your seats!

This game against Spurs was originally scheduled as a Watford home game, but it was decided to change the September fixture to be played at Vicarage Road in order to give the hosts time to get their ground ready.  So it was with some irritation that this fixture was confirmed as being played at Wembley, which is a terrible venue for a league game.

Our recent pre-match pub of choice was deemed to have gone too up-market, so we met at an alternative venue which was actually equally expensive and didn’t have reindeer on the menu, although it did have a venison vindaloo pie, which went down very well with some in our party.  After a very pleasant meal, we headed for Marylebone to get the train to Wembley and were rather surprised to find that it was far from packed and we were able to secure seats for the short journey with no problems.

During the afternoon before the match, the message had gone out that it was no longer permissible to take rucksacks or laptop bags into the ground and we had been warned to arrive an hour before kick-off in order to give us time to get through security.  Arriving just before 7:30, we had the freedom of Wembley Way and there was no queue to get into the ground, although the warning regarding bags had to be taken seriously as there was a measuring device that was in use to catch out those trying to flout the bag size rules.

Deeney wants the ball

Team news was that Javi had made three changes from the Burnley game with Janmaat, Cathcart and Hughes in for Femenía, Kabasele and Sema.  So the starting line-up was Foster; Janmaat, Cathcart, Mariappa, Holebas; Hughes, Cleverley, Capoue, Pereyra; Deulofeu and Deeney.  With the team announcement comes the shirt colour and I was disappointed to see that the team would be playing in yellow as I only had my green shirt with me.

About 10 minutes before kick-off, there were exhortations over the tannoy and on the screens for fans to “Take your Seat.”  When we entered the arena, we could see why, as the home areas were very sparsely populated indeed.

Prior to kick-off there was a minute’s reflection for the missing Cardiff striker Emiliano Sala and the pilot of the missing aircraft, David Ibbotson.  So very sad.

Holebas and Pereyra line up a free kick

Like most Watford fans, I had been gutted when South Korea were knocked out of the Asian Cup meaning that Son would be available for this fixture.  He certainly showed no sign of jet lag as he made an early run into the Watford box but, with Cathcart in close attendance, the ball ended up in Foster’s hands.  Watford also launched an early attack as Janmaat put in a decent cross and Deeney was just short of providing the finishing touch.  Son again caused concern for the Watford defence with a turn and shot that flew just wide of the far post.  The first on-target effort came as a shot from Eriksen took a nasty double deflection which sent it goalwards, but Foster was alert to the danger and made the save.  Then Eriksen found Son in the box but, as he tried to round the keeper, Foster was able to save at his feet. Watford had a half chance as a shot from Deeney was blocked and fell to Janmaat whose shot was high and wide.  Vertonghen then tried his luck but Foster was quickly out to clear.  At the other end, Deulofeu did really well to make space for himself on the edge of the box but his shot was just wide of the target.  Son threatened again with a curling shot, but Foster was right behind it.  Holebas was the next to try his luck with a shot from distance that was deflected over the bar.

Celebrating Cathcart’s goal

Watford took an unexpected lead as, from a corner, Cathcart rose to head past Lloris.  It all looked a bit scrappy from the other end of the ground, but a goal is a goal and the celebrations were joyous.  Almost immediately, the home side had a chance to break back as Son crossed the ball in front of the Watford goal, but there was no Spurs player on hand to turn it in.  So we reached half time a goal to the good in what had been a pretty poor half of football.

Spurs made a change at the break bringing on Moura for Aurier.  Llorente should have equalised early in the second half as he met a cross from Sissoko with a close range shot, Foster made the block but it rebounded to the Spaniard who should have buried it, but somehow managed to divert the ball over the bar when it would have been easier to hit the target.  At the other end, Deulofeu had a great chance to increase the lead but his shot flew just wide of the far post.  The first substitution came on the hour mark as Success came on for Deulofeu who looked very unhappy at being replaced.  The home side threatened again as a free kick from Eriksen was deflected goalwards and had to be blocked on the line by Foster, Alderweireld played the ball back into the box but Llorente headed wide of the near post.

Success, Mariappa and Cathcart jockeying for position

Gracia made his second substitution replacing Cleverley with Wilmot who was in action almost immediately clearing a shot from Rose off the line.  The second Spurs substitution saw Trippier coming on for Sissoko.  Watford’s first chance of the half came on 70 minutes, with a shot from Deeney that found the side netting.  A dangerous looking break by Moura was stopped by Capoue who was booked for the foul.  Watford had another chance to increase their lead as Deeney headed the ball down to Success but the shot was just wide.  Pochettino made his final change bringing Lamela on for Vertonghen.   With 10 minutes to go, Spurs finally scored an equaliser as Son, who had been a menace all evening, broke into the box and finished past Foster.  Our hopes of holding on for a point were dashed with three minutes to go as Llorente, who had been wasteful all evening headed a cross from Rose back across goal and past Foster into the net.  It was a poor goal to concede, Rose was given far too much space and Foster possibly could have done better, but it would be churlish to criticise him as he had been magnificent all evening.  There were four minutes of added time, but neither side looked likely to score again.

So the whistle went on a defeat that was probably deserved and only really galling as we had held the lead for so long.  It was a poor game, one that won’t live long in the memory.  It has to be said that Spurs are a shadow of the team that they were a couple of seasons ago, they looked very ordinary, with the exception of Son who put in an excellent showing as he always does.  Their stay at Wembley has done them no favours at all and the fact that the crowd was below 30K shows what the fans think of the venue.  I am just happy that I won’t have to go there for another league game.  Watford were not great going forward, thankfully we had goal machine, Cathcart, to save our blushes.  But, there was another decent defensive performance and Ben Foster continues to be magnificent in goal.  At the end of the day, I can only hope that a narrow defeat to Spurs will be considered a disappointing result for some time to come as that will mean that we are a team looking up the table rather than down.

 

Gorgeous Goals Brighten a Poor Game

The impeccable Ben Wilmot

When the draw for the fourth round was made and we were paired with either Blackburn or Newcastle, the waiting game started.  Train tickets could not be bought until we knew where we would be playing.  Also, as the match tickets were going on sale the morning after the replay, I had the task of drawing up two lists of attendees dependent on the outcome.  There were more takers for Blackburn, even though the consensus was that they would be a tougher opponent than Newcastle.  But Newcastle it was (again).

I left London bright and early and found myself on the same train as a fellow member of WML who I had notified of the pre-match pub, so I met up with him to ensure that he found it with no difficulties.  When we arrived, a couple of our party were already at the bar and had grabbed a table in the little enclosed area.  A well-dressed older couple then arrived and sat down to do their crossword.  This was shortly before a large contingent of Happy Valley and North West Horns descended and ruined their peace.  To be fair to them they took being surrounded by football fans in their stride and the crossword was duly completed.

Masina preparing for a corner

Team news was that Gracia had made wholesale changes, although this was hardly a second string as it did include the return of Cathcart and Hughes from injury as well as a number of others who have featured in the league this season.  So, the starting XI was Gomes; Janmaat, Cathcart, Britos, Masina; Quina, Wilmot, Chalobah; Success, Gray, Hughes.  We had been aware of the inclusion of Wilmot before the team was announced as his grandparents had bumped into Mike outside the pub.  Criticism by both pundits and fans of Watford’s changes ignored the fact that Newcastle, who have both a weaker team and squad than us, had made 7 changes of their own.  While I fully agree that we should be making every effort to advance in the cup, my feeling was that this was a team that had enough quality to beat Newcastle and I was very much looking forward to seeing more from Quina and Wilmot.

When we arrived at the away end turnstiles, the woman performing the search asked if I would be using the lift.  I wasn’t sure whether it was my heavy rucksack or my advancing age and girth that prompted the question, but assured her that I would take the stairs.  She then commented that she always takes the lift, so I decided not to take offence.  As we scaled the 14 flights, I was chatting to a friend, so lost track of our progress and was just wondering whether to stop for a much needed breather when I saw the top floor appear so soldiered on.  It always feels like an accomplishment to arrive at the top without the use of supplemental oxygen.  As we took our place in the stand, it was clear that there were plenty of empty seats in both the home and away ends.  Our allocation of 6000 was never going to be filled, but the temptation of £10 tickets had not attracted a huge home following either.

Quina on the ball

Watford made a very bright start with a brilliant shot from distance from Quina which needed a decent save from Woodman in the Newcastle goal to keep it out.  The next chance of note came from a free kick just outside the area which Chalobah hit just over the bar.  From that point, there was nothing worth retrieving my notebook for until the 23^rd minute when Janmaat hit a terrible shot that was way off target.  Pete reckoned that his playing badly was a deliberate ploy to stop the home fans booing him.  Watford had a great chance to open the scoring when Quina played a lovely pass to Hughes, who slipped a through ball into the path of Gray but the shot was wide of the target, although it wouldn’t have counted as the offside flag was up.  Newcastle had offered little going forward and an attempt at a break by Murphy was stopped by a very good tackle from Britos.  And that was it for the first half.  The announcer on the pitch introducing the half-time competition summed it up when he said, “Ladies and gentlemen, if any of you are still awake …..”

Gray being congratulated on his goal

There was also a bright start to the second half as Hughes played a ball over the top for Gray to run on to, he broke clear of the defence but shot high and wide when he should at least have tested Woodman.  Success, who was having a frustrating afternoon, then lost out to a defender and clearly felt as though he had been manhandled (he hadn’t) so collapsed dramatically in the box and then had to get up and get on with it when it was clear that nobody cared.  It was as well that I was in the top stand half a mile from the pitch at that point as I was tempted to give him a slap.  Another chance went begging after some nice play around the edge of the Newcastle box finished with the ball with Gray who ran into a couple of defenders and lost the ball.  The first booking of the game went to Wilmot for a foul on Joselu.  The breakthrough for the Hornets came just after the hour mark as Hughes played a gorgeous through ball to Gray who finished past Woodman and continued his run to celebrate in front of the Watford fans up in the gods.  Peñaranda had been readied to come on, presumably for Gray, just before the goal.  He immediately put his bib back on.  Watford’s second booking went to Chalobah for a foul on Kenedy.  The home side should have equalized when Manquillo went on a decent run, Gomes came out to meet him but failed to stop the shot, however the impeccable Wilmot was on hand to head the ball off the line.

Success celebrating his goal in the distance

Gracia made his first change on 68 minutes finally bringing Peñaranda on for Gray.  Soon after, Chalobah broke forward but, with options to either side, played a through ball to where Gray would have been had he not been substituted a couple of minutes earlier.  Benitez made a double substitution bringing Pérez and Atsu on for Murphy and Ritchie.  The decision to replace Ritchie was greeted with loud boos from the home fans.  Britos was then booked for a foul on Pérez.  Each side made a final substitution with Schär replacing Fernandez for the home side and Chalobah making way for Capoue for the Hornets.  Newcastle had a chance to grab an equaliser in the final minutes of normal time when a defensive header fell to Pérez on the edge of the box from where he shot over the target.  The home side attacked again but a cross from Atsu was easily gathered by Gomes.  Watford made certain of their place in the fifth round with a lovely goal that started with Peñaranda playing the ball out to Quina, his cross found Success in space in the box to finish from close range and make me feel ever so slightly guilty for moaning about him all afternoon.  The home side had a chance to grab a consolation as Joselu crossed for Pérez, but his shot missed the target and the final whistle went on a comfortable win for the Hornets.

Chalobah getting back to his best

The heavens had opened towards the end of the second half, so we were absolutely drenched by the time that we reached the pub at the station.  As we sat down with our drinks for the post-match analysis, the most astute observation was that it appeared that two moments of quality from a different match had been inserted into a dreadful game.  The best cup ties are blood and thunder games where all of the players appear desperate to win.  This was certainly not one of those, but Watford had done enough to deserve the win and there had certainly been some bright points.  As he has been in every performance so far, Quina was a joy to watch.  He plays with a confidence that belies his years, has a wonderful touch and a brilliant eye for a pass.  I found myself almost purring with delight every time he got the ball.  Wilmot again showed what a great prospect he is.  He started the game playing in a defensive midfield position but later moved into the centre of defence allowing Masina to play further forward.  In both roles, he was composed and appeared totally in control of his surroundings.  He really does look like a young Cathcart and having two of them in the squad is something to treasure.  Of the players returning to first team action, Britos put in a decent shift in the defence and Chalobah put in the best performance that we have seen since his return.  He looked far more comfortable and performed the midfield fulcrum role with some assurance.  That was very pleasing to see.

While the game won’t last long in the memory, it does mean that we are in the fifth round of the cup and, with many of the top teams already out of the competition, this seems like a great opportunity to advance.  I would love a trip to Newport or Barnet/Brentford in the next round.  I just hope that we don’t draw another Premier League team.

While on the way home, I received a message from Pete F that just said “Lucky sea shells.”  I confess that having bought a new coat last weekend, I was superstitious enough to ensure that my shell was transferred and was gratified when Pete B showed that he had also brought his.  Those shells deserve a cup run, I hope that those making the draw agree.

Avoiding a Banana Skin

Breaking at a corner

FA Cup 3^rd round day is always one that I look forward to.  While the magic of the cup has been somewhat tarnished over recent years, the prospect of teams from different divisions meeting is always thrilling.  When the draw was made, I was just hoping for a new ground to visit, so was a little disappointed when Woking came out of the hat as I have been there twice for pre-season games (including having the memorable experience of seeing Mazzarri escorted back to the team coach by a phalanx of stewards so that he didn’t have to mix with the fans).  I soon got over this disappointment and my appetite for the game was only increased when I heard the interview that the “From the Rookery End” guys did with (Woking assistant manager) Martin Tyler at the FSF awards.  Martin spoke about Watford in such glowing terms that I was genuinely moved and felt incredibly proud of the club that I support.  I only hoped that he (and I) would be feeling equally positive about our club after the game.

As I usually do when Watford are playing on Sunday, I checked the fixtures a ridiculous number of times on Saturday in order to ensure that I hadn’t got the wrong day.  Sunday morning I was up early (for me) and off to Woking.  Having not seen any football related clothing on the train, my first indication that there was a game going on was when I emerged from the station to see a chap selling half and half scarves (the horror!).  We had arranged to meet at a local pub for Sunday lunch, which was a great way to prepare for the game.  The place was soon packed with a mix of fans and it has to be said that the locals were a lot more convinced of a comprehensive Watford win than I was.

Cleverley and Masina line up a free kick

Since we would be on the terraces, we made sure that we arrived at the ground earlier than is usual for us and we met up with Pete and Freddie at the front of the terrace near the half way line.  A perfect spot for watching the game.  Pete had been on a beach clean the day before and had come away with a pocket full of shells.  He shared them around, starting a new tradition of the lucky shell that was to be carried all the way to Wembley (we can dream).

Team news was that Gracia had made wholesale changes, with Peñaranda finally making his Watford debut.  The starting XI was Gomes; Janmaat, Britos, Wilmot, Masina; Cleverley, Chalobah, Quina; Hughes, Success, Peñaranda.  It was pleasing to note that the Woking team were wearing numbers 1-11.

Watford started brilliantly with their first chance coming in the first minute of the game as Success tried an overhead kick that sailed over the bar.  Quina was the next to trouble the Woking defence with a dangerous run that finished with a shot that was blocked.  At this point, with less than 10 minutes gone, the Woking fans behind the goal started a chant of “0-0 to the Cardinals,” fair play to them for that.  Peñaranda’s first goal attempt came after he cut inside and hit a shot that was just wide of the target.

The happy walk back after Hughes opened the scoring

Watford continued to threaten as a corner from Hughes was headed down by Britos to Masina whose shot was blocked at the near post to give the visitors another corner.  This time the set piece appeared to have come straight from the training ground as Masina played a low ball to Hughes who was running into space in the box and he belted it home to give Watford an early lead.  It was a very well taken goal and certainly calmed my nerves.  The first caution of the game went to Success, who was adjudged to have dived.  The card seemed a little harsh.  The Woking fans were at it again soon after as their keeper, Ross, gathered a cross, they started a chant of “We’ve got the ball.”   Watford had a decent chance to increase their lead as a cross from Janmaat was headed goalwards by Success, but Ross made the save.  Quina was the next to threaten but his shot flew over the bar.  The first goal attempt for the home side came on 23 minutes as Casey crossed for Gerring who met it with a decent header, but Gomes dropped to make the save.  Then Success found Cleverley whose shot was blocked.  On the half hour Gerring, who had been on 5Live telling Troy Deeney that he would have to let him know he was there, turned his attentions to Success in the absence of the Watford captain.  It was quite a nasty challenge and well worth the booking that he received.  Watford had another chance to grab a second from a fantastic free kick by Cleverley, but the shot rebounded off the bar.   The last chance of the half came as Quina played the ball back to Hughes who tried to place the shot, which rolled to the keeper, when a welly would have gone in.

Chalobah translating for Penaranda (possibly)

So Watford reached half time a goal to the good, after a half that they had completely dominated.  It was a shame that we hadn’t scored more of our chances, but we were looking in control of the game.

At half time, I spotted Lionel Birnie standing behind me and took the opportunity to tell him how much I had enjoyed the GT autobiography.  I loved the style of the book, with GT telling his own story in a way in which you could hear his voice.  The book is a real gift to those of us who loved and admired GT and I wanted to thank Lionel for his work in ensuring that GT’s story was told.

The first action of the second half was the rather thrilling sight of the lino on the opposite side falling backwards over the hoardings.  It is dreadfully childish, but you can’t help but laugh when the officials come a cropper.  The first real chance of the half fell to the visitors as Peñaranda cut inside and curled a lovely shot just wide of the target.  Woking then created their first chance of the half, but Hyde’s header was easily stopped by Gomes.

Ben Wilmot

The home side made their first substitution on the hour as Little replaced Taylor.  The substitute made an immediate impact firing a low shot through a crowd of players, but Gomes made the save.  With 20 minutes remaining, each side made a double substitution.  Bradbury and Hodges replaced Luer and Edser for the home side, while Success and Peñaranda made way for Deeney and Sema for the visitors.  Javi’s substitutions proved to be inspired as a couple of minutes later Sema pulled the ball back for Deeney to score Watford’s second goal.  The niggling worry in the back of my mind that Woking could grab an equaliser was quelled at this point.  The Woking substitute, Bradbury, had briefly been on Watford’s books and Pete was not a fan having known of him from Havant & Waterlooville, where his father had been manager.  Pete decided to engage with the player.  “Not even your Dad would play you.”  A comment which, to be fair to Bradbury, drew a smile.  Watford made their final substitution with 10 minutes to go as Hughes made way for Navarro.  The Hornets had a good chance to grab a third as Deeney got on the end of a cross from Sema, but his header was blocked.  At the other end Bradbury should have reduced the deficit with a header from close range that flew just over the bar.  I swear there was fear in his eyes as he looked over to see Pete’s reaction.  That was the last action of the game and the whistle went on what had been a comfortable victory for the Hornets.

Quina, Penaranda and Success

As we were leaving the ground, someone mentioned that Lloyd Doyley had been in the away end and, perfectly on cue, he appeared from one of the portaloos.  We said hello and he shook hands with the guys and greeted me with a kiss.  He was then surrounded by Watford fans asking for photos.  Never have so many selfies have been taken in front of a toilet.  He chatted to us on the way out, talking about his recent move to Billericay.  He was accompanied by his son, resplendent in a Watford shirt, and told us that his lad is a regular at Watford but goes with his friends now.  That made me very happy.

As we emerged onto the street outside, it was evident that all was not well and I was shocked to witness a couple of punch-ups as if to emphasise the retro feeling of the day and remind me that it wasn’t all good in the olden days.

I bade my farewells to the others and headed for a visit to my Dad’s cousin who lives in the town centre.  When I had called to invite myself over, they had told me how the town was thrilled about the visit of Watford and it was nice to hear how much this had meant, although they had been hoping for a replay.

Penaranda and Masina waiting to take a free kick

On the journey home, I reflected on the game.  While the finishing had been a bit disappointing, the win had been convincing with the Hornets never really looking in any danger.  The debut of Peñaranda was decent enough for a lad who has not played for a while and for whom a non-league ground must have been an eye-opener (decent as the ground is).  Quina and Wilmot continue to impress when given their opportunities and it was great to see another strong performance from Cleverley.  The disappointments were Success, who continues to frustrate more than delight, and Chalobah, who is a shadow of his former self at present.

When I got home, I must say that it gladdened my heart to see Woking’s kind words about our visit on their Twitter feed as well as the photo of the two managers having exchanged bottles of their traditional beverages (sangria and Newcy brown).  I had thoroughly enjoyed the afternoon on the terrace, although my aching back didn’t agree with me.  I am just hoping that the fourth round draw is kind to us.  A trip to Accrington, Newport or Oldham would go down very nicely indeed, although I suspect we will end up at the Etihad.

Back to Winning Ways at Wolves

Masina, Mariappa and Cathcart

Thankfully I chose the weekend of the Bournemouth game to travel to the Turks & Caicos for a week’s diving.  Although I made the mistake of listening to the game, which was not a good start to the holiday.  But it has to be said that, despite the recent poor run of results, this seemed to be the first bad performance of the season and it was good that the lads had the international break to give them time to recover.  Since Watford’s downturn started after Javi won the Manager of the Month award, I was hoping that the curse would now transfer to Nuno.

A trip to Molineux evoked awful memories of our last visit which ended with one of our regular travelling fans, Nic Cruwys, fighting for his life following an attack after the game.  Having previously witnessed an attack on the Watford fans’ coaches (which are generally used by families and the elderly), I was not looking forward to this trip.  Our party decided to delay our arrival by meeting in our pre-match pub of choice in Birmingham instead.  When I arrived early doors, Graham was already in place, but the pub was otherwise almost empty.  Then, suddenly, there was an invasion of Morris Dancers.  The bells were driving me crazy.  Having thought we had found a quiet spot, the rest of our party arrived to find a dance taking place in front of our table.  I couldn’t help reflecting on the irony that the two Morris dancers in our usual away crowd had decided to give this game a miss.

The Wolves Pyro Display

We left Birmingham in plenty of time to make the journey to Wolverhampton.  On arrival at the station, we were met by a phalanx of police who directed us behind the station and on a rather circuitous route as they didn’t want Watford fans walking through the city centre.  I must say that the route that we took seemed a little too out of the way for my liking, but there were police officers stationed at various points on the way and we arrived at the ground with no sign of any trouble.

Team news was that, in addition to the suspensions of Kabasele and Holebas, Deeney had picked up a minor injury and Gracia had decided to drop Gray to the bench, the replacements being Mariappa (who also captained the team), Masina, Deulofeu and Success.  So the starting line-up was Foster; Femenía, Cathcart. Mariappa, Masina; Deulofeu, Hughes, Capoue, Doucouré, Pereyra; Success.  Wolves were unchanged for the ninth game this season.

As the teams came out prior to kick-off, there were some very impressive pyrotechnics.  Our pitch side seats meant there was a danger of scorching, my eyebrows may never recover.  When it was over, we couldn’t see the pitch for the smoke.  It seems that Wolves subscribe to the adage “no pyro, no party”.

Finding a shady spot to celebrate Capoue’s goal

As well as the overheating prior to kick-off, the stand had no leg room (I am 5ft6in and could not sit comfortably, even if the people in front had allowed me to do so) and was also bathed in bright sunlight, which made it incredibly difficult to watch the game.  The first half chance of the match came as a free-kick from Neves was headed over by Masina. The resultant corner was met with a looping header from Bennett that was pushed over the bar by Foster.  The second corner led to a quick break by the Hornets as Femenía hared upfield before finding Deulofeu whose cross was straight into the arms of the Wolves keeper, Patricio.  After an even start that had been short on chances, Watford took the lead on 20 minutes.  The move started with some really good work from Deulofeu before Doucouré played the ball out to Capoue who blasted a low shot from distance into the Wolves net.  There was a momentary delay before the celebration as we couldn’t quite believe what we had seen.  It was a terrific strike.  We had hardly stopped bouncing when the second goal went in.  Straight from the restart, the ball found its way to Pereyra on the left from where he effortlessly curled a shot over the keeper and into the opposite corner.  Well, that was unexpected!

Man of the match, Capoue, lining up a free kick

Wolves seemed a bit shell shocked at that point and the next Watford attack finished with Success being taken out.  The travelling Hornets were shouting for a penalty, but the referee indicated that the foul had been committed outside the area.  It was in a dangerous position, but Deulofeu’s free-kick was disappointingly straight into the wall.  The first booking of the game went to Neves after a foul on Hughes.  Watford continued to dominate and some lovely passing around the Wolves box finished with Doucouré playing the ball back to Pereyra who curled his shot over the bar.  There was a rare attack from the home side as Jiménez broke forward and got into a dangerous position, but his shot was poor and flew wide of the far post.  After another lovely passing move involving Femenía and Hughes, the ball reached Doucouré whose shot was saved by Patricio dropping low to gather.  The half time whistle went with the Hornets two goals ahead and in total control of the game.  It had been an impressive half of football from the visitors.  The two goals in quick succession had shocked the home side, but it had been a performance of assurance and skill.

Pereyra put in a shift at both ends of the pitch

Wolves made a substitution at the restart bringing Vinagre on for Jonny.  Watford started the half well as Success latched on to a through ball and surged forward, but his shot was wide of the target.  There was an early chance for the home side as Vinagre tried a shot, but Foster was down to block and the ball was cleared.  Foster was taking his time to restart the game, which enraged the Wolves fans behind the goal who were already on his case for his West Brom connections.  Ben couldn’t have cared less.  Nuno made a second substitution on the hour mark bringing Cavaleiro on for Jiménez.  Wolves had a half chance as, from a Moutinho free kick, Boly tried a backheel in the direction of the goal, but Foster was able to make the save.  Watford made a rare second half break as Success found Doucouré whose shot was blocked.  Hughes was the first Watford player to be cautioned after he pulled back Vinagre as he tried to escape upfield.  Gracia’s first substitution saw Gray coming on for Deulofeu, who had run the first half, but had faded since the break.  Wolves continued their attempts to break back as Moutinho tried a shot from distance that flew over the bar.  The home side then made their last change bringing Traore on for Doherty.  Gracia’s next substitution was a defensive one as Prödl replaced Success.

Pereyra and Gray preparing for a corner

At about this time, with 15 minutes to go, the sun disappeared behind the stand and I could finally see the game without having to shield my eyes or being blinded by the glare from my glasses.  Wolves were getting closer to reducing the deficit as a cross from Vinagre was headed just over by Cavaleiro.  It felt as though the Watford goal was leading a charmed life at this point, but the home side were incredibly wasteful as another free kick from a dangerous position was launched high and wide by Neves.  Watford were still making occasional attempts to increase their lead, on this occasion a shot from Gray was blocked, so Hughes tried to score with a tackle, but Patricio was able to gather.  With the clock running down, the next chance for Wolves to get something from the game fell to Costa who again directed his shot over the bar.  Prödl’s appearance was short lived as he left the field limping and was replaced by Wilmot who was making his Premier League debut.  Wolves had one last chance from a free-kick which was met by a glancing header that flew wide.  The fourth official indicated four additional minutes, but they were painless for the Hornets who finished the game as deserved winners.

Ben Foster beaming after the final whistle

The post-match celebrations were very enjoyable.  Clearly Ben Foster, who had been the target for dog’s abuse for most of the game, was delighted.  His fist pumping was almost Gomes-esque!  It was also lovely to see players coming over to the fans to present them with shirts, the first being Deulofeu who jumped the barriers to hand his shirt to a fan.  But I must admit that the one that got to me was when Aidy Mariappa came over to Flora, one of our wheelchair fans.  Aidy also jumped the barriers to reach Flora to hand her his shirt and have a chat with a beaming smile on his face.  I had to wipe away a tear.

Before the game, the Watford fans I spoke to had all been of the opinion that a point would have been a good result, but nobody seemed at all confident of that outcome.  That two goal first half minute decided the game but, despite the rearguard effort in the second half, Watford were in control for the full ninety minutes and Wolves never looked like getting back in the game.  As good at the forward play was in the first half, and there were some absolutely gorgeous moves, the defensive performance in the second half was equally good, with some brilliantly timed tackling and a general sense that Wolves had nowhere to go meaning that they were reduced to long range efforts and set pieces.  Deulofeu’s first start of the season was excellent, it was lovely to see him back.  But the highlight for me was the fact that, although Capoue and Pereyra will be lauded for their goals, they both put in a shift at the back as well.  It was a real team effort.

After the wobble in recent weeks, that was certainly a performance to put smiles back on the faces of Hornets fans and to give us renewed confidence for the rest of the season.  Football is fun again.

The Youngsters Shine Against the Royals

So good to see Chalobah back from injury

I was rather pleased when the draw for the second round of the League Cup gave us a trip to Reading as it is almost a home game for me.  Even more so when the game was scheduled for Wednesday evening as I was already planning to work from home due to a dental check-up in Maidenhead in the afternoon.  I always have a chat about football with my dentist, who is really an Arsenal fan but used to be a Reading Season Ticket holder who gave up going because the team were hopeless.  We chatted about the game and he warned that they may cause us problems.  I assured him that, given our recent history in this cup, I was taking nothing for granted.  Once he gave me the all clear, I was on my way to Reading where I was in the pre-match pub far too early, although not as early as the chap in the Watford shirt who was already sitting in the corner.  I bought myself a lovely real cider and then found a little booth to hide away in and wait for the rest of my party who arrived in due course.

On arrival at the ground, the bag search was being undertaken by a woman whose main concern seemed to be to find some goodies that could be shared with her.  It always makes the day a bit nicer when the stewards have a sense of humour.  As our pre-match pub is excellent for beer but doesn’t serve food, I had a chicken balti pie inside the ground that I have to say was very good indeed.  While waiting for kick-off, Sweet Caroline was played which apparently is a Reading favourite but made me a little homesick for Fenway Park.

Prodl lines up a free kick

Team news was that Gracia had made 11 changes with debuts for Navarro, Masina, Wilmot and Quina and the return of Chalobah, so the starting line-up was Gomes; Navarro, Mariappa, Prödl, Masina; Femenía, Chalobah, Wilmot, Quina, Sema; Success.  I have to say that looked like a pretty decent team.  Reading had also made 8 changes, but the main Watford connection with the opposition was in the dug out in the person of Sir Nigel Gibbs.

The first chance of the game came from a Navarro free kick from distance that was an easy save for Walker in the Reading goal.  Early in the game there was a switch in formation to three at the back with Wilmot in the middle and Navarro and Masina playing as wing backs.  Watford’s next chance also came from a free kick from Chalobah that just cleared the bar.  From a corner, Femenía played the ball back into the box where it was parried and fell to Mariappa whose shot was blocked before Wilmot tried a cheeky back heel that was cleared.  Young Wilmot was having an impressive start and he was soon in action at the other end of the pitch cutting out a dangerous ball into the box.  The first chance for the home side came in the 23^rd minute as Watford failed to clear a cross into their box allowing McNulty to volley over the bar.  Then Watford launched a great break, Success got to the byline and put in a low cross, but nobody was there to take advantage.  Soon after, a corner from Sema reached Femenía who played it in to Success whose shot missed the target.  He wasn’t to make the same mistake a minute later as Masina played the ball back to him, he took one touch and then finished past Walker.  Reading had a chance to break back from a free kick which was launched over the wall, but Gomes dropped to make an easy catch.  So Watford reached half time a goal to the good and looking uncharacteristically comfortable.

Celebrating Quina’s magnificent strike

Reading made a change at the break bringing Sims on for Swift.  The second half started with a decent chance for the Hornets.  After a fast break, Navarro crossed for Success who headed just over the bar.  Soon after, the Watford striker had another chance to increase the lead, this time from a Masina cross, but he nodded wide.  The travelling Hornets were in good voice and a lovely bit of skill from Quina was greeted with an appreciative chorus of “sexy football”.  There was a decent chance to get a second as Chalobah played a lovely ball for Femenía to run on to, but the shot was blocked by the Reading keeper.  The second Watford goal was a thing of beauty, the ball was cleared to Quina outside the box, he advanced a couple of steps and then took the advice of the bloke standing behind me who was yelling ‘hit it’ and powered a rocket into the top corner.  It was quite a strike. There were changes for both sides soon after as Baldock and former Watford youngster Yiadom came on for O’Shea and Richards for the home side.  For the Hornets, Sema made way for Okaka.  The Watford substitute had an immediate chance to get on the score sheet as he got on the end of a looping cross from Femenía, but his glancing header was wide of the target.  There was a rare chance for the home side as a ball dropped to Kelly inside the box, but he hit it over the bar.  Quina’s enjoyable debut came to an end as he was replaced by Doucouré.  He looked shattered as he left to field to an ovation from the travelling Hornets.  Watford were still pushing to extend their lead as a shot from Navarro was pushed over the bar.  At the other end McNulty lobbed Gomes, but Mariappa was back to clear the ball.  Reading threatened again with a decent shot from distance from Méïté, but Gomes was down to make the save.  Watford’s final change saw Hughes come on for Chalobah, it was so great to see him back in action and managing almost 90 minutes.  Reading had one last chance to reduce the deficit from a free kick, but the shot was easily caught by Gomes.

Gomes back in goal

So, in the end, it was a convincing and comfortable win for the Hornets.  The second string put in a very good performance which gives a pleasing indication of the strength of the squad.  Of the new guys, Wilmot was the most impressive, looking very assured in the middle of the back three.  The other youngster, Quina, made some lovely touches and his goal was a worldie.  These two look to have very promising futures.  It was also a delight to see Chalobah back on the pitch and putting in a great shift for almost the entire 90 minutes.  He was beaming as he responded to the chants of “Chalobah, my lord” after the final whistle.

Also, fair play to the 2514 fans who travelled to the game.  It is not a long journey but, given our recent record in this competition, they would have travelled more in hope than expectation, so thoroughly deserved that win.

We have Spurs next in both the league and the cup.  I don’t expect anything from either game, but if this team continues to perform as they have so far this season, we are in for a rather enjoyable season.

A Pre-season Double-header

A lovely present from the club

Although I tend to make the most of my Summer break from football, it is always good when pre-season comes around.  Unusually, the first games for the first team were on the pre-season tour, which I didn’t make this year due to work commitments that also prevented me from making the trips to Welling and Hemel to see the U23s.  So my first chance to see the lads was to be the trip to Stevenage.

Oddly, Watford had arranged two games in two days that both appeared on the first team page, so a lot of fans stayed away on Friday night thinking that it would be a run out for the U23s.  My attendance was also looking a little in doubt as technical difficulties meant that the 4pm meeting at work started 15 minutes late.  That and disruption on the East Coast line had me a little nervous about making it, but I arrived at King’s Cross in time for the planned train which was running on time, so I was in the pub not long after 6 enjoying my first pre-match pint of the season.

After the heatwave, most of which I have spent stuck indoors (partly through choice), there was an irony in the fact that my return to football watching coincided with a thunderstorm.  It started rather gently, so we decided to stay outside in the beer garden but were persuaded to take shelter when the forked lightning appeared.  The walk to the ground was in a downpour, but after the oppressive heat that we have had, the soaking was rather lovely.

Masina and Sema join the fray

Team news was that Gracia had picked a very strong first XI which would give us a chance to see some new faces as the starting line-up was Gomes; Navarro, Prödl, Mariappa, Masina; Hughes, Rodwell, Wilmot, Sema; Jakubiak, Deeney.  Pete and I had turned up wearing the lovely new green away kit.  Mine had arrived by special delivery the week before in a presentation box with a letter from Troy thanking me for attending all 19 away games last season.  A really lovely gesture from the club that made me feel appreciated after turning up on a Wednesday night in Stoke.  We had assumed that it would get a run out, especially when we saw the officials warming up in yellow kits, but the lads emerged from the tunnel wearing the home stripes to confound us.

 

 

Ben Wilmot

Watford started the game very brightly with Wilmot almost opening the scoring against his old club after some good work from Sema on the wing, but his shot was just wide of the target.  The Stevenage goalkeeper, Farman, then pulled off an excellent flying save to keep out a shot from Hughes.  From the resulting corner, Farman again did very well to save a header from Prödl.  Watford continued to dominate without creating much in front of goal until near the half hour mark when Jakubiak found the side netting.  Hughes was the next to threaten the Stevenage goal, but Farman pulled off another decent save and was then out to frustrate Jakubiak as he bore down on goal.  The home side didn’t test Gomes until just before half time when Nugent rose to meet a free kick with a powerful header that the Brazilian stopper did well to keep out.

So we reached half time goalless, but it had been a decent showing from the Hornets who had been unlucky to find the Stevenage keeper in top form.  At the other end of the pitch, it was pleasing to see that Gomes was being shown a lot of love by the Watford fans who had made the journey.

Congratulating Gray after scoring the winner

At half time, Gracia must have been alone in the dressing room as all the substitutes appeared to be warming up and the first half team warming down, but there were actually no changes for the Hornets at the break.

Stevenage were much the brighter team at the start of the second half and had a great chance to take the lead with a header from Revell, but Gomes did brilliantly to keep it out.  On the hour mark, Gracia made nine changes bringing Janmaat, Britos, Cathcart, Holebas, Charles, Capoue, Pereyra, Success and Gray on to join Hughes and Gomes, who would play the entire 90 minutes.  The Hornets got back on top after the substitutions and should have opened the scoring when Pereyra unleashing a lovely curling shot, but Farman was again equal to it.  Just as it seemed that the night would end goalless, Farman made his first mistake of the evening allowing Pereyra to cross for Gray to head home from close range and the Hornets left Stevenage with a slightly fortunate win.

Challenging on the goal line

It was a game of two halves.  The first half had been all Watford with some lively play that should have given us a comfortable lead, if it wasn’t for the performance of the keeper.  The second half was less convincing, but improved after the substitutions.  I liked the look of the new players although I have yet to put a name to most of them.  One bizarre aspect of the evening was the involvement of Kabasele, who took no part in the game but was doing timed sprints on the sidelines.  I swear he ran as far as some of those who actually played.

After a restful night’s sleep, I had a Saturday lunchtime trip to West London to see the Hornets play at Brentford.  In contrast to the previous evening, we found ourselves sitting in a pub garden in blazing sunshine.  Our choice of pre-match establishment wasn’t one of the four on the corners of the ground, but it was rather lovely, if very partisan, with the staff wearing Brentford shirts and flags up all around.  I wondered whether it was a good omen when one of the flags fell off the door.  Oh the straws we clutch on to as fans.

Janmaat and Charles waiting for a throw-in

Pete and I thought we had left in plenty of time to get to the ground for kick-off and there wasn’t much of a queue outside, but it took an age to get through the turnstiles as, instead of just taking your tenner, they then grabbed a ticket which was scanned and the counterfoil torn off before you were permitted into the ground.  With the choice of sitting or standing, we opted for the terraces and took our place at a crush barrier behind the goal.

As was expected most of the starting XI were those that had played the last half hour at Stevenage.  So the line-up was Foster (GK); Janmaat, Kabasele, Britos, Holebas; Pereyra, Charles, Capoue (C), Sema; Success, Gray.  Foster was given a tremendous welcome by the Watford fans with chants of “Foster’s coming home.”  My main concern with the line-up was that Kabasele would be worn out after the workout that he was given on the sideline the night before.

Pete and I had persisted with wearing our green shirts so were happy to see the team were also resplendent in the emerald.  Unfortunately, it had taken so long to get through the turnstiles that we missed kick-off, but arrived on the terrace behind the goal in time to see Foster parry a free-kick from Marcondes, it dropped to Watkins who finished to give the Bees an early lead.  Watford had a chance to break back almost immediately, but Success undid the good work of his run by shooting straight at Bentley in the Brentford goal.

Pereyra takes a free kick

There was a better chance for Pereyra whose cheeky flick bounced off the top of the crossbar.  Gray then had a decent shot that just cleared the bar.  The opening goal came on 25 minutes as Pereyra tried a shot, the keeper was equal to it but Dalsgaard mishit his clearance which found the net to draw the visitors level.  Ten minutes later, the Hornets took the lead as Gray finished from the edge of the area.  I am ashamed to say that I missed the goal as the substitutes were walking in front of the away terrace and I was distracted by how blond Prödl seems to have gone this Summer!  I sensed I wasn’t the only one to miss the goal as there soon followed a chant from the kids to the right of me of “Let’s pretend that we have scored.”  The Hornets had a chance to increase their lead before half time, but this time Gray’s shot was just over the bar.

At half-time Masina replaced Holebas then, on the hour, Gracia made wholesale changes bringing Navarro, Prödl, Rodwell, Wilmot, Mariappa, Deeney and Jakubiak on to replace Janmaat, Kabasele, Britos, Charles, Capoue, Sema and Gray.  Soon after the substitutions, Success had a great chance to increase the lead for the Hornets but, as too often, a tremendous run finished with a terrible shot.  Watkins had a couple of chances to restore parity for the home side, first with a shot across goal and then with a long range shot that was caught by Foster.  The Hornets had the ball in the net on two more occasions, once from a Pereyra header, and then a shot from Deeney who got ahead of the defence before poking home, but both were adjudged to be offside, so the game finished with a narrow win for the visitors.

It had been a typical pre-season game.  A run out that gave few clues to what we can expect for the rest of the season, but it was an enjoyable enough afternoon.  Bizarrely, the atmosphere in the away end was livelier than I am used to at pre-season games, although the chanting was dominated by anti-Luton songs, being delivered by kids who, if I am any judge of ages, are too young ever to have seen Watford play them up the road.

Post-match it was back to one of the pubs on the corner to confirm that none of us was any the wiser, but the beer was good.  Some wonder why we bother with pre-season games.  Personally, I enjoy getting back in the swing of things with the chance to see the new players or the new hair cuts on the old players and to have an afternoon out with friends knowing that the result won’t make much difference to the enjoyment of the day.