Dennis Scores His 9th Goal Of The Season, Hands Hodgson 1st Win

A late Emmanuel Dennis header was the difference as Watford produced a well-earned victory against Aston Villa at Villa Park, Megasportsarena.com reports.

The Hornets enjoyed a productive first half without notching a goal; the best chance falling to Dennis, who forced Emiliano Martínez to make a vital stop at his near post to deny the Nigerian the opener. Despite opportunities at both ends, neither side was able to convert their chances, with the game goalless at the interval.

After the break, Moussa Sissoko had a great opportunity to put the Hornets a goal up but, bearing down on goal, he could only find the side-netting.

With Watford continuing to pile the pressure on and entering the final stages of the match, Dennis scored the all-important winner, nodding Ismaïla Sarr’s centre back across goal to secure a vital three points on the road.

The Nigerian was played in by Sarr, who had created the chance through some impressive quick skill, which allowed Watford’s top goalscorer time on the ball to jink and jive past the approaching defenders.

The Hornets were persistent and produced their first goal under Hodgson courtesy of Dennis.

The strike originated from Sarr’s intelligent attacking play just inside the box, with the Senegalese forward remaining patient before delivering an inviting ball to Dennis, who beat Ashley Young and headed past the Aston Villa goalkeeper.

And as the final-whistle sounded, the travelling Hornets’ supporters produced a bellowing roar to signal their approval of the performance and Watford’s first victory under Hodgson.