Nigerian midfielder Tom Dele-Bashiru proved to be the hero of the day for Watford as they narrowly defeated Sunderland in their recent Championship league encounter.
The 25-year-old midfielder held his nerve to slot home a late penalty, sealing a crucial 2-1 victory for the Hornets and dashing Sunderland’s hopes of claiming the top spot, Footballrover reports.
Watford takes control in a tight contest
In a match that saw both sides battle for dominance, it was Watford who struck first.
Festy Ebosele opened the scoring after 28 minutes, finishing off a pinpoint cross from Yasser Larouci that left Sunderland’s goalkeeper, Anthony Patterson, with no chance.
Great way to open your account 🏦 pic.twitter.com/pbrxH9eK5h
— Watford Football Club (@WatfordFC) September 28, 2024
The goal ignited a response from the visitors, who came close to levelling just moments later through a dangerous Luke O’Nien free-kick that Watford keeper Jonathan Bond did well to tip over.
Sunderland, determined to make a comeback, found their equaliser early in the second half.
French striker Wilson Isidor, making his debut, pounced on a cross from Patrick Roberts and expertly turned the ball past Bond at the near post to bring the game back to level terms.
Dele-Bashiru’s late penalty sinks Sunderland
With the game finely poised and both teams pushing for a winner, it was Watford who had the final say.
In the 84th minute, Kwadwo Baah was brought down in the box by Sunderland’s Luke O’Nien, and the referee had no hesitation in pointing to the spot.
Coolly done 🥶 pic.twitter.com/aeQS9YqJzf
— Watford Football Club (@WatfordFC) September 28, 2024
Dele-Bashiru stepped up confidently and sent the goalkeeper the wrong way, netting his second goal of the season and securing all three points for Watford.
Despite a late surge from Sunderland, Watford held on to their lead till the final whistle.
The win lifts Watford to 7th in the Championship standings, with 13 points from seven games.
THAT'S THE WAY WE LIKE IT! pic.twitter.com/tiIHaP8Dji
— Watford Football Club (@WatfordFC) September 28, 2024
They will now turn their attention to a midweek clash against Preston as they look to continue their climb up the table.
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