Deeney proves Premier class
WATFORD spent barely two hours back on top of the Championship yesterday.
But on this evidence, and given the topsy- turvy nature of this unpredictable division where the lead has changed hands six times in just as many weeks, they will be back there before long.
The volatile nature of the Championship warrants a few more baton changes before the season is over.
And Watford will rightfully fancy their chances of going straight up by fi nishing in the top two after deposing the team who began the day at the summit.
It was not just a landmark day for Troy Deeney but, more signifi cantly, a milestone win for Watford.
Deeney, who made history by becoming the fi rst Watford player to score 20 goals in three successive seasons, was branded a Premier League player- in- waiting by his manager.
“That was probably our best performance of the season because we produced it at such an important time,” said Deeney amid post- match slipped up to gift wrap Deeney’s 37th- minute opener.
Adlene Guedioura’s deep cross was misjudged by Jonathan Woodgate and Deeney tucked the ball under Dimi Konstantopoulos for the landmark strike.
The breakthrough in a tight game was always going to be vital and as Boro wilted in the sunshine, Watford just appeared to grow stronger.
Odion Ighalo once again made Woodgate look foolish as he dummied before fi ring home a powerful 65th- minute shot that Konstantopoulos could only help in.
There was no way back for Boro and they only really threatened when substitute Kike forced Heurelho Gomes into a save.
But it was another crushing blow to Middlesbrough after their defeat at Bournemouth. The Teessiders are still to visit Norwich.
But manager Aitor Karanka insists his side are well placed for the run- in.
Karanka said: “We are a team who have had an amazing season. Nobody could have expected us to be in this position.
“But we have to keep going and we will fi ght to the last second. The players are distraught but they have my trust and pride.”
WATFORD
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