WATFORD'S under 17s suffered a disappointing 3-0 defeat against bottom of the table Fulham but, in truth, the young Hornets did well to field a team at all.

Coach David Dodds' problems began the previous Friday when all three of his goalkeepers were ruled out.

A request to the FA to field an under 15 keeper was rejected, so Jamie Collins had to play in goal as an emergency replacement

To make matters worse, five members of the squad were also ruled out through injury, but Dodds still expected his reshuffled side to put on a good display against the bottom side.

However, Watford started slowly, giving their opponents too much space and time, and this resulted in a 30-yard shot that went through Collins' legs.

As the half drew to a close, the young Hornets finally began to find their attacking form, but were unable to convert any of the several chances they created.

With Ashley Young playing very well, and under 15 defender Pat Lewis impressing on his debut in the back line, Watford maintained their attacking tempo after the break, but their failure to equalise was punished when Fulham made it 2-0 on the break.

Some excellent saves by the Fulham keeper prevented Ben Hammond, in particular, reducing the deficit, before the home side wrapped up the points with another poor goal from a defensive perspective.

"It was a disappointing day, but hopefully things will get better," said Dodds. "That was on the back of five very good performances."

Watford under 17s: Collins; Mawer, Lewis, R. Williams, Wood; Martin, Cowen, E'beyer, Young; Hammond, Chase. Substitutes: Newing for Martin, Cliffe for Chase, Chapman for Wood.

October 20, 2001 15:21