Watford fans would have been delighted with the way their side played in what was Quique Sánchez Flores’ first game since his appointment.
In a tough and challenging game against top six side Arsenal, Watford showed their worth and were unfortunate not to get all three points in the 2-2 draw.
Vicarage Road was booming before kick-off and Watford started the game brightly and had the majority of chances in the opening 15 minutes.
However, in form Arsenal man Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang showed his importance in an unbalanced Arsenal side with two first half goals to see his side go two nil up at the break.
But that didn’t stop a relentless Watford side who went into the second half with the bit between their teeth.
A sequence of errors in the Arsenal defence led to Watford’s breakthrough. Arsenal’s Leno and Sokratis attempt to play out of the back was counteracted by Watford’s high press and the ball landed to Tom Cleverly who fired his shot past Leno. Game on.
Deulofeu was outstanding for Watford and he got the home fans on their feet every time he took strides towards the Arsenal goal.
The introduction of summer signing Sarr and Roberto Pereyra gave the home side an extra boost as the substitutions made a near instant impact.
Quick feet from Sarr in the Arsenal box saw his strike go just past the post.
A stupid tackle by David Luiz on the 80th minute gave Watford the chance to get back into the game as his challenge saw the referee point to the penalty spot.
Up stepped substitute Pereyra who slotted the ball into the corner. 2-2.
A head in hands moment for all Watford fans as Doucouré could have grabbed a vital three points for the opposition but his poor shot, after great individual play on the 92nd minute was easily saved by Leno.
Both Watford fans and Watford owners would have been delighted with their team’s performance under their new manager and will be hoping they can take that form into their next game at against the champions on Saturday (September 21).
Picture courtesy of Watford FC
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