Watford vs Brighton Prediction & Tips
A midweek loss to West Ham United extended winless official matches to 11 for penultimate side in the standings, Watford (E2, P9), who appear to be looking inevitably towards relegation. They have one of the worst defensive records in the Premier League (PL) (41 goals against), which is something new manager Roy Hodgson seems to be trying to fix — the “Hornets” have conceded goals just once during his first two games in charge (E1, L1).
Problems remain on the other side of the pitch though, as Watford could be on course for a fourth successive PL game without scoring – you need to go back to May 2017 to remember the last time this happened. It’s hard to imagine improvement here considering Watford have managed just one goal in their last four head-to-head meetings with Brighton (D2, L2).
Graham Potter’s “Seagulls” are in the relative comfort of mid-table thanks to an unbeaten run that spans six PL games (G2, D4). However, he will probably be disappointed that his side were unable to convert any of those draws into wins, as Brighton have now drawn 12 of their 22 league games this campaign. Five more between now and the end of the season will see them equal the PL tie record for a single season (17) since the calendar considers 38 matchdays.
The last time these teams met, two first-half goals made the difference for Brighton (W 2-0). That seems like an anomaly though, as Brighton have scored five of their last seven goals after the break, while scoring 39% of their total league goals since the minute. 75 and up.
Players to watch: Emmanuel Dennis returned from a midweek suspension and now Watford fans are hoping he can return to form after scoring eight PL goals this season but none in 2022 so far. Brighton supporters will rely on Danny Welbeck and Alexis Mac Allister as the two players have combined to score four of the team’s last five away goals.
Featured fact: Watford have not kept a clean sheet at home since February 2022 – a run of 16 games.
Watford – Brighton FREE TIPS
BTS/YES @ 2.25
