WATFORD approached the match at Sheffield United determined not to concede the goals that blighted their performance at Bradford City.

Luca Vialli said: "It wasn't the easiest of the matches because we were coming from two defeats in a row and Sheffield United have a very good home record, so we knew it was going to be difficult. On top of that, it was quite windy and therefore, especially in the first half, it was quite difficult to play football.

"We wanted to be solid at the back and not make any mistakes. That was our main concern tonight.

"I think we conceded very little, and, in the first half, we had a good couple of chances, and then, in the second half, we took them.

"I think the best team on the pitch won the game."

Asked if he was happy with the success, he said: "As long as we take it from there and we get another few good results together, I will be happy, but, at the moment, I am still l aware we are not in the best of situations, and we have a lot to make up for.

"OK, we have got to celebrate and we have to feel proud of ourselves, but there is still a long way to go before we can say we are performing as well as we can."

Commenting on the quality of the goals, he agreed: "They were two great goals.

"The first one Heidar showed good control and made a great turn to put in a good shot right in the bottom corner.

"The second one was something that Smudger (Smith) had a chance to practice last Saturday when, in the first half, he went close from a similar position. This time he took it well, and it is extra credit to him because he was struggling a bit as he had stomach problems.

"But he decided to carry on, and he worked very hard in the second half, even though he was feeling a bit weak, and he kept going and was rewarded with a very good goal."

It was pointed out to the manager that a similar win, after a poor start had helped Preston North End to string a few results together and climb right up the table. Vialli nodded, and said this is easier said than done.

"The competition is very strong and it is is a very tight division so, as you say, if we do string a few results together, we could end up in a very good position, so we have not given up yet," he said.

"It is mainly down to us. We know that. We need to find a certain continuity in our results and performances, but, most of all, it is about avoiding avoidable mistakes which have affected our season so far."

November 2, 2001 9:57

Oliver Phillips