AIDY BOOTHROYD paid tribute to match-winner Darius Henderson following Watford's first Premiership away win of the season.

Henderson showed nerves of steel to convert a 12th-minute penalty for his first goal of the season and the Hornets held on to that lead at Upton Park to secure a precious three points that keeps their slim hopes of survival alive.

"He's taken a lot of stick and when you're a striker it affects your performance," said Boothroyd. "He's missed some belting chances this season but, at the end of the day, he's kept going. That's all credit to him and the fans have stuck by him. That goal should be a bit of a weight off his shoulders now.

"We haven't had too much to shout about this year so I want everybody to enjoy this win. It was a very difficult game, they have got some good players but I thought we were a lot better than we have been. We have taken a few kickings but we are coming back now and we will look to finish the season strongly.

"Yes, we rode our luck but we are due a bit. We are back in the mix and I think it's good for football that somebody like us can still be in it as this stage. It gives everybody a little lift. It's in our hands and if we work hard and try our best then that's all you can ask."