While Watford have defied most expectations to get plenty of points on the Premier League table, Sunderland have managed to fall below even the mediocre expectations for the club. The Black Cats are trying to steer clear of the relegation zone before the end of the month but will have plenty of work to do to achieve even that unambitious goal.
Here is the Sunderland 0-1 Watford match report:
Watford made quick work of Sunderland’s defense, with Allan Romeo Nyom charging past to put across a pass to star forward Odion Ighalo, who finished the play for a goal within five minutes of the match starting.
Within a few minutes Ighalo would have a chance at a another goal, but his attempt was cleared.
Sunderland have now given up 11 Premier League goals since November, but pulled out back-to-back shutout wins over Crystal Palace and Stoke City. However, they are still not clear of the relegation zone.
The Black Cats’ 5-4-1 formation proved effective in limiting Watford’s shots in the second half, but they were unable to get more than a single shot on goal of their own for the first 60 minutes of playing time.
At the 75′ mark the Black Cats had a chance to equalize, but the play was ruled offsides.
Then again at 77′ Duncan Watmore got a shot of his own off, but his shot curled wide right to maintain the deficit.
A last scoring chance was deflected by Watford goalkeeper Gomes to preserve the lead and the 1-0 win.
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