WATFORD'S Academy went down last weekend as Coventry City secured a 2-0 win and revenge on the Hornets for the identical score back in October.

The Golden Boys were undone by goals from Adam Walker and Liam Francis for Greg Rioch's side, despite the home side ending the game with 10 men when Donovan Simmonds was sent off.

Watford did quite well in the first half but were hit hard for not taking their chances. Hungarian goalkeeper Bo Antal was then punished for two mistakes and that proved costly for the under 18s.

Liam Henderson and captain Dale Bennett were unavailable due to their on-going loans at Wealdstone, this meant that Aaron Beech took over the captaincy while Ewan Clarke continued his comeback in attack.

Rob Kiernan returned to the starting line-up and took his place in midfield. The starting XI featured two schoolboys; Lee Hodson and Theo Angus, who both played as full backs.

With five league games remaining for the young 'Orns the end of the season is in sight. As has often been the case, this year it looks to be a time to push through the younger age groups and take them out of their comfort zone.

Watford's Under 18s coach Sean Dyche said: "During the last couple months of the season we're looking for continued development from our first year scholars.

"If they can get some reserve team games in too that will also benefit them. Meanwhile the second years obviously have decisions to be made on their futures.

"Actions speak louder than words at this stage, we can help them but the proof is in game situations. The lads feel the pressure in different ways and we can see how they handle it and they also learn quite a bit about themselves I think as well. It's tough but it's a big part of their development.   

Watford's under 18s are next in action away to Chelsea on Saturday 15th March.

WATFORD: Antal; Hodson, Angus, Brown (Brooks 85), Beech (c); Jenkins, Kiernan (Whichelow 70), Forbes, Gibson; Young, Clarke (Sordell 65). Subs not used: North (gk).

COVENTRY CITY (STARTING XI): Collett; Burgess, Hollist, Grandison, Francis; Hidreth, Cain, Walker, Marshall; Simonds, Fraser. Subs: Wynter, Quirke, Wilson, Jeffers, Leluu.

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