Sunderland scored twice in three second-half minutes to see off Watford 2-1 in the FA Women’s Championship.

A rebound from substitute Katy Watson and then a superb header from Neve Herron ensured the hosts emerged victorious despite Jenna Legg’s late consolation.

Sunderland stay ninth despite their win, with 22 points from 19 matches. Watford remain second-bottom on 10 points, nine clear of rock-bottom Coventry.

After a slow opening, the first opportunity of note came on 18 minutes when Abbey Joice played in Maria Farrugia. But the striker’s low effort was well saved by Watford keeper Georgia Ferguson.

Holly Manders came closest at the end of an uneventful first half but her free-kick drifted just wide of the Watford goal.

The start to the second period was just as cagey, and the breakthrough finally came just shy of the game’s three-quarter mark.

Farrugia again caused trouble for the Hornets defence, and Ferguson could only parry the forward’s effort to Watson who thrashed home for her first senior goal.

The hosts doubled their lead shortly after on 68 minutes. Emma Kelly’s corner found Herron who leapt highest to power home from 12 yards.

Farrugia had a shot cleared off the line as Sunderland pushed for a late third but Legg scored in stoppage time to make the closing moments nervier than they should have been.