Joao Pedro scored the winning goal for the Hornets, with a well taken goal following a rapid counter-attack from a Sheffield United corner.
While Watford manager, Rob Edwards will probably still expect more from his side, this was the perfect start to his tenure at Vicarage Road, securing the club’s first win at home since November 2021.
With Ismaila Sarr, Emmanuel Dennis and Joao Pedro available for Watford, they looked deadly going forward throughout the game. All three seemed to offer something and each made a huge impact on the match.
The midfield of Edo Kayembe and Tom Cleverley struggled in the first half, but eventually grew into the match during the second period.
While things looked shaky defensively at times, on the whole Watford were pretty solid. Hassane Kamara was superb at right wing back, while Francisco Sierrlata, Christian Kabasele and Craig Cathcart made some crucial interventions at the back. Ken Sema also put in a shift on the left hand side.
Despite many believing Maduka Okoye may start in goal this season, Daniel Bachmann provided a clean sheet and looked relatively comfortable throughout.
How did the Watford players rate?
Daniel Bachmann- 8
Bachmann looked comfortable throughout the duration of the match. He made a crucial save on the cusp on half time where he touched a shot over the crossbar, keeping the score level going into the break. His distribution could still slightly improve but it was a solid showing from the Austrian.
Ken Sema- 7
Sema was up and down the left hand side of the pitch from the first whistle. He made some crucial interventions and looked comfortable defensively. His set pieces were poor, as were some of his crosses but he put in a good display overall.
Christian Kabasele- 7
Many Watford fans believe that this year is Kabasele’s last chance to impress at Watford after a difficult few seasons. He looked relatively relaxed throughout the game last night and played well though.
Francisco Sierralta- 7.5
Sierralta looked solid throughout the match. He dealt with most threats that came his way and led by example to those around him. If Watford are to go up this season, he could play a crucial role.
Craig Cathcart- 7
After some shaky moments in the first half, Cathcart returned to his composed and experienced self to help Watford over the line. Reliable and consistent as always in the Championship from Cathcart.
Hassane Kamara- 8
Kamara was superb today and certainly lived up to the high expectations that Watford fans had given him after winning the Player of the Season award last time out. Despite playing out of position on the right, the Ivorian still offered plenty going forward and at the back. A brilliant display.
Tom Cleverley- 6
Watford’s new captain struggled in the first half against Sander Berge and the other Sheffield United midfielders. He slowed things down and failed to get near the ball on most occasions. Watford fans will expect more.
Edo Kayembe- 6.5
Kayembe grew into things in the second half, but like Cleverley, he failed to get his foot on the ball and really take the game by the scruff of the neck. He slightly improved as the game went on but again, Watford fans will want slightly more.
Ismaila Sarr- 7
Sarr experienced a relatively quiet first half where he didn’t see much of the ball on his side of the pitch. He provided the assist for the winner though and his movement was crucial in setting up that goal. If he decides to stay at Watford, he will be huge in their promotion push.
Joao Pedro- 8
Pedro missed a good chance in the first half, where his header was saved by Wes Foderingham. He was lively throughout the game though and even looked to drop deep to pick up the ball and make something happen.
His goal required calmness, composure and also the knowledge to find himself in the right place at the right time. He is beginning to show maturity in his game and he could be in for a great season ahead.
Emmanuel Dennis- 7.5
Dennis appeared lively throughout and was always looking to carve out a chance for the Hornets. He showed that he is a class above the rest in the Championship and it will be interesting to see if Watford keep hold of him
Substitutes
Rey Manaj - 6.5
Dan Gosling- N/A
How did the manager rate?
Rob Edwards - 7.5
Rob Edwards experienced his first taste of Championship football and he will be delighted to have got off to a winning start.
Perhaps he could have brought on some fresh legs in the midfield but overall, there was a clear shape and a clear plan for how Watford were going to play.
It was far from perfect, but certainly it was a step in the right direction.