Watford defeated a stubborn QPR team to reach the FA Cup quarter-finals on Friday night (February 16).
Etienne Capoue’s goal late in the first half was enough to keep the Championship side at bay until the final whistle.
On the stroke of half-time, the French midfielder reacted to a mishit shot from fellow centre-mid Tom Cleverly and stroked the ball past QPR ‘keeper, Lumley.
QPR had several chances of their own, but weren’t clinical enough to slot the ball past Watford’s trusty number two, Heurelho Gomes.
It could have been a different story if Watford’s only shot on target for the entirety of the game hadn’t have gone in, but The Hornets will be pleased with their defensive resilience and ability to win under pressure.
The game at Loftus Road was a hurdle that Watford are familiar with – they have won eight of their last nine FA Cup ties against sides from a lower division.
Despite Capoue’s goal, it was Watford’s centre-back, Miguel Britos, who received the man-of-the-match status, as he made a number of pivotal clearances and blocks to ensure his side made it to the next round.
Gracia has proved himself a manager willing to change the starting 11 based on form, and Britos’s resilient performance will certainly give him plenty to think about before the next game.
Watford will travel to Cardiff for their next fixture in the Premier League on Friday, February 22.
Picture courtesy of Watford FC
0 Comments