Women's Match Preview: Watford (A)

Watford preview

Exeter City Women face another big challenge this weekend as they travel to Watford on Sunday afternoon, Abbie Britton’s side will be looking to secure a third successive win on the road and continue their strong start to the campaign.

Watford’s relegation from the Barclay’s Championship saw a significant turnover in the Hornets squad, most notably with the appointment of 29-year-old Renee Hector as the team’s new Head Coach. Maria O’Sullivan, Anna Fibley and Lachante Paul have added some experience to a young squad, with Ellie Bishop and Daisy Hind both joining from the Academies at Tottenham Hotspur and Chelsea respectively. Hector has also added to her options with the dual signings of Jessie Gale, Clarabella Hall, Elkie Bower and Maia Lazaro, Arsenal, Brighton and Tottenham Hotspur their parent clubs.

The Hornets have had a steady start to the new campaign, an opening day defeat to Hashtag United was soon forgotten as Watford went on a seven-game unbeaten run, beating Billericay, MK Dons, Cheltenham Town and Lewes along the way. However, recent league form has not been as strong, with two successive home defeats coming to Oxford United and AFC Wimbledon. It was FA Cup revenge in last week's tie against AFC Wimbledon, Jessie Gale converting the winning penalty in a shoot-out.

The Grecians have responded clinically after three successive defeats threatened to upset their season, wins over Plymouth Argyle, Cheltenham Town and Keynsham Town coming alongside a creditable draw against league leaders Hashtag United. 

City will need to be at their best to pick up points in West London, but with a chance to apply some pressure on the top three, Abbie Britton’s side can travel with the confidence of emphasising their assured arrival in tier three.

Match Info:

  • Watford v Exeter City
  • Grosvenor Vale, Wealdstone FC
  • Sunday 10 November, 2pm
  • Tickets on sale now. £7 adult, £4 concession.