Watford 2-1 Norwich: Hornets Move Four Points Clear of Drop Zone After Welbeck Winner

Watford picked up a vital win to boost their Premier League survival hopes, as they overcame Norwich 2-1 at Vicarage Road.

Tuesday's contest was a must win for both sides, with both in desperate trouble after a season of on-field turmoil. Watford came into the contest in 17th place, one point clear of the relegation zone, while basement boys Norwich were six points adrift of Bournemouth.

It was the Canaries who started the brighter of the two, with Emi Buendia giving Norwich the lead with a wonderful strike after just four minutes. Receiving the ball on the right inside the area, the Argentine chopped back inside before curling home beautifully with his left foot.

But their lead didn't last long, as Craig Dawson equalised just six minutes later. Etienne Capoue whipped in a dangerous free-kick, which the central defender connected with well at the back post to level the score.

Norwich pressed forward in hope of regaining their lead, with Max Aarons forcing Ben Foster into a smart save. But it was the Hornets who went ahead ten minutes after half time through Danny Welbeck - and what a goal it was.

Ismaila Sarr burst forward before looking to pick out a teammate in the box and as the ball bounced up inside the area, Welbeck watched it all the way before executing a sensational overhead kick - leaving Tim Krul in the Norwich goal with no chance.

With just five minutes of the game remaining, young forward Adam Idah came within inches of grabbing an equaliser for Norwich - but the youngster was unable to connect properly as the ball was fed in from the flank.

Victory for the Hornets takes Nigel Pearson's side up to 31 points, four points ahead of Aston Villa who occupy the third and final relegation spot. As for Norwich, they are now in chance saloon - and now know that defeat against West Ham next time out will see them relegated from the Premier League for a record fifth time.

Source : 90min