[ad_pod ]
The 2018/19 season was quite something for Watford. After a rather brilliant start to the campaign, things turned sour, fast. And while consistency will likely play a major role in their upcoming bout, here are five key dates that will decide whether they can clinch the seventh spot or not.
24 August, West Ham (H)
The Hammers are one of Watford’s biggest competitors in the chase for the upper part of the table. West Ham managed to finish above them last season, helped by beating them at Vicarage Road in the second part of the campaign. Accumulating points against their rivals early, especially since it also follows the game away at Everton, will be crucial for reaching their goals.
28 September, Wolverhampton Wanderers (A)
The very beginning of the season is going to be the real test for Watford. After a feisty August, September won’t be any different. Wolves away will be the grand finale of a deadly series starting with Newcastle (A), Arsenal (H), Manchester City (A) and ending with Wolves (A). Getting any points in this sequence is a must and would do wonders for their season.
3 December, Leicester City (A)
If Watford want to clinch seventh, they have to be able to beat Leicester, it’s as simple as that. This is a team that always gives them trouble, and points against them are scarce. If they want to get ahead of them next season, it starts by beating them away from home in December and then surviving the onslaught that follows.
1 February, Everton (H)
Everton are another extremely tricky opponent that absolutely has to be beaten if there are any improvements to be made in comparison to last year’s results. The Toffees are known to chip points off of Watford, but that has to be dealt with moving forward.
25 April, Newcastle United (H)
And finally, Watford’s bane – finishing strong. Newcastle might be their last chance to get on the board before the end of the season since that game is followed by West Ham (A), Manchester City (H) and Arsenal (A). This is the crucial part that might make or break their chances of finishing seventh.
