'2-0 & we played at home!'

The home hoodoo is over, the gypsy curse has been removed, as the have the glory hunters who probably couldn`t see the attraction of the F.A Cup, much like Dave Kitson. For those observant enough to spot my brief piece in the Watford Observer, I think my theory about removing the Johnny`s was right!

Make no mistake Johnny`s, if you stayed away 1. DON`T COME BACK and 2. You missed probably the most complete performance of the season. Ok, it won`t win us promotion; it will only hinder our Premiership push, but let`s be honest, little beats winning in the cup.

The first 15-20 minutes saw Watford take control, but their domination was short-lived as Palace changed the balance of power into their favour.

However, it counted for little as they were unable to make anything of their superiority which was short-lived anyway. Aidy`s side had switched their focus from hoof ball down the middle and started getting it wide to Tommy Smith and Jobi McAnuff. And, surprise, surprise Watford looked on top.

Despite the change in style, the goals were both set plays, finished by the same man. With thirty minutes of a not too fantastic game gone, Shittu headed Williamson`s corner powerfully past Scott Flinders to open the scoring.

Half-time: 1-0

Watford continued their pressure in the second half and were denied three potential penalties in a short space of time early on.

The first saw Jose Fonte inexplicably handle Darius Henderson`s header after Tom Smith`s fine cross. Smith had the beating of young Lee Hills all afternoon but failed to make his experience pay. The second wasn`t even a disguised tug and Carl Fletcher hauled Marlon King to the floor inside the penalty area. Big head himself [Lee Mason] somehow managed to miss the attempted challenge.

The final penalty shout I have to admit, I didn`t see, but those around me seemed pretty convinced Marlon King`s marker had handled.

The second came 20 minutes into the second half, Jordan Stewart turned provider as his corner was powerfully headed home again by Shittu. Stewart nearly turned from provider to scorer not long after as he vollied Williamson`s corner just wide.

After that, Palace threw on several kids, but realistically, these were never going to change the game and Watford saw out the remaining minutes professionally.

Full time: 2-0

Crystal Palace
Flinders; Lawrence, Fonte, Hudson, Hills; Watson, Bostock, Scannell, Fletcher; Scowcroft and Morrison.

Referee: Mr L Mason

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