Watford boss puts defeat to Birmingham City down to momentum change after opener

The Hornets were arguably the better side in the opening 20 minutes and were keeping the ball well before they went behind to a Curtis Davies header, following a throw-in which Dyche believes should not have been awarded.

Watford struggled to create chances after that and were also unable to keep hold of possession, particularly in the second half.

Dyche said: “We were unlucky to be 1-0 down at half time as we had put in a good performance in the first half and kept the ball well.

“By the time they got the second it was a scrappy but even game. They are a strong and powerful side and they have a column which says zero home defeats this season for a reason.

“They have good players and it was always going to be a tough place to come.”

When asked about his side's failure to keep the ball after Birmingham's goal, Dyche replied: “I think momentum changes it. I just had a look and it didn't change that drastically after the goal.

“Like I said, momentum changes after goals and they are a strong powerful side.”

Birmingham's first two goals were very similar as deliveries into the box were met by the head of Curtis Davies.

But Dyche claims he is not concerned by the type of goals conceded today.

He said: “I am not concerned about the goals. We will just look at the goals like we do with every goal and it is about learning with the players because they are young.

“Their second goal was an excellent set piece and after that it is difficult to come back from.”

Watford changed their formation against Birmingham as Deeney moved to wide right and the Hornets played three in the centre of midfield, with Jonathan Hogg playing deeper.

Dyche said: “We tried a different way of playing and we did well in the first half but goals change the momentum.

“After their second goal they made a better fist of it but there was no lack of effort from my players.

“They are an experienced side and have very good players.”