The Watford Way

Cynics might describe it as a Boxing Day game in which Watford did all the boxing, but that would be less than just to Adrian Boothroyd’s team. They did just about everything they could with the resources at their disposal and as a result they made life genuinely hard for a side which is light years ahead of them in terms of ability. Indeed some of them surpassed themselves and the goal they scored to equalise Gilberto’s 18th minute header from Rosicky’s corner would have graced any Premiership team. First Bouazza showed remarkable pace and strength to hold off Toure and flash in a cross which was diverted off Hoyte, then Tommy Smith beat Clichy to the ball and swept it past Lehmann from close range.

In the end Watford very nearly held out for a memorable draw, but less than 10 minutes from time substitute Theo Walcott found Robin Van Persie on the right and from the moment he cut inside onto his left foot, the curling Bergkamp style finish inside the far post was almost inevitable.

Adrian Boothroyd’s side may be rooted to the foot of the table, but there is no lack of courage, effort and commitment and – even more remarkably - not a trace of despair. It is a spirit which can only be commended.