3 Reasons Why Manchester United won against Watford

2. Rugged defending:

United reduced Watford's physical dominance

Watford has a very specific style of play, where they undertake a direct approach and launch diagonal deliveries in order to switch the play. They are quite physical in the middle of the park, often trying to dismantle their adversaries through strong their strong physical demeanour.

However, United seemed to be prepared for this particular aspect as Marouane Fellaini’s presence between the two central midfielders was vital to how Mourinho’s team managed to thwart Watford’s direct threat. Smalling and Fellaini won 12 aerial duels between them, along with making some notable defensive contributions too.

Despite troubling the backline through Will Hughes’ flair from the right flank, Watford failed to completely breach United’s defence. Smalling displayed some good game awareness, as he sensed the aerial balls targeted into the box earlier and cleared that danger.

He and Fellaini handled Troy Deeney quite well as Lindelof made four interceptions and moved the ball ahead with intent and purpose. They physically outmuscled Watford while defending set-pieces, and thus reduced a major impact-making characteristic of their gameplay.