THE defensive stability and organisation proved to be the bedrock of Watford under 19's success over a strong and experienced Leicester City side, who came to London Colney on Saturday, October 6, with a reputation for hard work and team-work.

Said a delighted youth team boss David Hockaday, after his side's 3-0 triumph: "I was so pleased with our defensive shape and determination in the first 20 minutes, and the next 70 were probably our best period this season for sustained team play. A very good performance all round."

Watford were put on the back foot early on, but kept their shape well with the result their goal was not threatened.

Gradually, they began to put together some flowing moves, playing out from the back, with Jason Norville and Simon Patterson causing significant problems for the visitors' defence.

The outstanding Gary Cohen delivered a stream of telling crosses, and, from one of these, the lively Norville headed the ball inside the far post for a well-worked goal.

Another Cohen cross found Anthony McNamee, who rifled home at the far post, as Watford then dominated throughout the remainder of the game.

In the second half, Leicester were pinned back in their half, and Patterson gained a deserved third from a good interception.

But for excellent goalkeeping and last-ditch defending, Watford could have added to the score.

October 14, 2001 18:20