Watford has secured a place in the next round of the FA Cup after dispatching Championship side Bristol City 3-0 on the night. The Hornets who had an impressive start to the new season have failed to hold on to their strong form. The intensity of the December and January fixture schedule got to them as they slumped to four defeats in their last five English Premier League matches. One of those defeats even came against bottom dwellers Swansea City and their recent run of results in the league will clearly be undoing their good work earlier in the season.
The win tonight, however, might go a long way in restoring the confidence of the players and help them recover their league campaign. Dispatching of Bristol City should give them even more confidence given that the Championship side has been in excellent form this season with promotion looking a likely possibility.
After a good first half an hour of play, Watford broke the deadlock in the 37th minute and added two second-half goals, one near the end to give the home fans something to sing about as they go home tonight.
Here is a look at the player ratings on the night for the Hornets.
Heurelho Gomes – 6.5
A spectator for most of the game and will be happy with his clean sheet.
Daryl Janmaat – 6.5
With no defensive responsibility to shoulder, he tried getting forward to support Carrillo as much as he could
Christian Kabasele – 6
Rarely will enjoy such an easy night in the Premier League in Watford colours.
Molla Wague – 6.5
Little defending to do for him as well and could have scored on the night.
Marvin Zeegelaar – 6.5
An easy outing for the fullback and was on hand to put off Bristol from scoring late on.
Tom Cleverley – 7.5
Will be sad he could not get on the score sheet but a brilliant assist for Watford’s second goal with a cross.
Abdoulaye Doucoure – 6
Was itching to get forward with so little defending to do but had to stay disciplined to maintain the team’s structure.
Etienne Capoue – 7.5
Another player who could have more on the night but ended up with one well-taken goal late on.
Andre Carrillo – 7
Faded off from the match very easily. His goal was the only good contribution from him in the match.
Roberto Pereya – 6.5
Extremely unlucky to be not on the score sheet as his screamer was saved by the post.
Troy Deeney – 7.5
Grabbed a goal, led the team well and could have scored another.
Substitutes
Richarlison – N/A
Ben Watson – N/A
Jose Holebas – 6
Almost got on the score sheet tonight despite coming on late.
