Watford 1-3 West Ham
by Samantha Miller
at Vicarage Road

WEST HAM’S new signing Sebastien Haller secured the win over the Hornets with an acrobatic kick to seal three points at Vicarage Road on Saturday. 

Watford conceded an early goal with Mark Noble converting from the spot to increase his conversion rate making it 22 in 24 penalties. 

The die-hard midfielder has over 400 appearances for the club and his work rate is formidable. 

Watford answered back down the other end of the pitch with Will Hughes setting up Andre Gray. 

The forward replaced the injured Troy Deeney in the starting line-up to score Watford’s first goal of the season, which turned out to be only a consolation goal with United winning 3-1. 

Andre Gray told Watford: “We can’t sit down and sulk. I would rather not create so many chances and just get the one and win the game.  

“We’re creating so many chances but it’s the points that matter. Tightening up the defence is another priority. I thought there was only one team to go on and win but we didn’t.”  

Will Hughes proved how instrumental he can be in the midfield, creating a large proportion of the chances. 

After a lengthy injury spell last season, the former Derby player looks to be in form but the home side lacked a clinical edge over their opponents, which proved punishment in the end. 

The Hornets manager Javi Gracia said: “We are getting punished for all the mistakes we’ve done. We need to find a better balance between attack and defence.”

The opposition manager Manuel Pellegrini said: “It was two very important goals for Haller. 

“It’s not easy when you come from another league. It’s different between the leagues. I think the impact of Antonio in the second half made the difference”.