Watford might have registered a thumping 4-1 win against reigning Premier League champions Chelsea under new boss Javi Garcia, the Spaniard is yet to gather a momentum to rescue the Hornets from a downfall who were only three points clear the drop zone before hosting Everton at Vicarage Road this evening.
Everton were concentrating on a seventh-placed finish but Watford, on the other hand, were mostly engaged in a survival fight alongside nine other bottom-half counterparts. The hosts, however, pulled off a massive result when a tedious game, heading for a draw, received a late twist thanks to a winner from skipper Troy Deeney who led his side to a comfort zone for the time being.
Watford Players Rated And Slated
Orestis Karnezis: 7
The Greece international, on loan from Udinese, has replaced veteran Heurelho Gomes in recent weeks following the Brazilian’s injury and retained his place despite the latter’s return. He made a few routine stops this evening and clinched a clean-sheet by protecting a narrow 1-0 lead.
Daryl Janmaat: 7.5
The fullback maintained his defensive composure and did not allow Sigurdsson to create enough menace in Watford defence. Made some forward runs, won duels and cleared a few of the opponents’ movements to wipe out the danger.
Sebastian Prodl: 7
Had a nervy inception of the game but settled in really well and pulled off a few crucial blocks, tackles, interceptions and clearances to keep hold of the slender lead.
Adrian Mariappa: 8
The veteran was solid defensively as he maintained the composure all the time and was present in the right place at the right time on every occasion.
Jose Holebas: 8
Was great going forward and instrumental in many of the hosts attacking moves. Performed his defensive duties as well and delivered one balanced display on the left-hand side of the Hornets defence.
Etienne Capoue: 7.5
Was combative, dribbled past the Everton midfield on a few occasions, protected the backline with timely challenges and clearances along with winning duels. His shooting, however, could have been a lot better.
Abdoulaye Doucoure: 7.5
The in-form Watford midfielder had plenty of touches, successful dribbles and his mobility in the middle of the park never let the likes of Davies and Rooney to settle in.
Gerard Deulofeu: 7
Was promising down the right-hand flank but was forced to leave the pitch with an ankle injury and got replaced by Andre Carrillo.
Roberto Pereyra: 6
His dribbles were causing some problems in Everton defence but the Argentine could not provide anything spectacular and was eventually taken off to be replaced by Stefano Okaka.
Richarlison: 6
The young Brazilian has not maintained the form of the first-half of the campaign but worked his socks off to contribute in midfield as well as defence. Was replaced by Kiko Femenina after completion of the one-hour mark as Garcia reshuffled his formation.
Troy Deeney: 8
The skipper grabbed a late winner for his side and inspired them to get closer to safety by acquiring three massive points.
Substitutes
Kiko: 6.5
Was a positive influence as he kept on providing attacking contribution as well as a defensive cover to protect the lead late in the game.
Stefano Okaka: 7.5
Assisted Deeney to score his decider late in the game and troubled the Everton defence with his physicality towards the end.
Andre Carrillo: 5.5
Worked hard but did not offer much from attacking perspectives.
