French connection trouble Hornets

Watford lost 2-1 to runaway French L2 league leaders, Le Havre, in a 'behind closed doors` training match at London Colney on Friday.

The Hornets netted through King Marlon after excellent work by strike partner Duke Ellington and Lloyd Doyley down the right flank but goals from Moroccan striker Hasane Alla and attacking midfielder Selim Bouadla sealed victory for the Frenchmen.

Sir Aidy fielded a strong side made up of first team regulars, players returning from injury, such as Moses Ashikodi and Jordan Parkes and fringe players who have impressed for the reserves. There were also run outs for River Plate loanee Santiago Aloi, Anthony McNamee, Alex Campana, Cedric Avinel and forgotten man Rinaldi.

Le Havre - whose youth academy is well respected, having produced the likes of Arsenal`s Lassana Diarra, Spurs full back Pascal Chimbonda, Newcastle`s Charles N`Zogbia and Juventus centre back Jean-Alain Boumsong - were in the UK as part of a Cross Culture Project set up by Brighton Hove Albion to support community relations and professional development.

Ooo la la.