Memories of Blissett testimonial between Watford and Luton

An attendance of 7,213 was at Vicarage Road on Tuesday, August 16, 1988 for a testimonial for the Hornets’ record goalscorer Luther Blissett.

It was to prove a triumphant night for the hosts as a goal from Dave Bamber and two from substitute Paul Wilkinson secured a 3-1 victory for a Watford side that included a guest appearance from John Barnes, a year after he had left Vicarage Road to move to Liverpool.

John Barnes was back in a yellow shirt (Image: Watford Observer)

We hope you enjoy the opportunity to take a look through these pictures from our archive of a pre-season fixture that recognised the outstanding contribution of a legendary striker.

The traditional pre-match photo with Luton captain Steve Foster and referee David Elleray (Image: Watford Observer)

The Hornets wave to all sides of Vicarage Road (Image: Watford Observer)

Blissett turns in the penalty area (Image: Watford Observer)

The Hatters defenders take evasive action as Glyn Hodges fires in a shot (Image: Watford Observer)

Dave Bamber (behind Blissett) puts Watford in front (Image: Watford Observer)

Barnes has a shot from the edge of the 18-yard box (Image: Watford Observer)

Paul Wilkinson scoring one of his two goals after coming off the bench (Image: Watford Observer)

Stuart Rimmer applies the last touch but Luton are already appealing for offside (Image: Watford Observer)