Watford v Preston North End
Aug 6, 2005
Author: Iceman

An air of familiarity descends on Watford this Saturday as a second successive League campaign begins against Preston North End. However, unlike last season, the fixture is at Vicarage Road, and new manager Adrian Boothroyd will be desperate to get the ball rolling with a win in front of the home supporters, who need something to cheer after a turbulent summer.

In fact, after all the comings and going at Vicarage Road in recent times, the clash with Preston is one of the few familiarities left from a year ago. With a massive squad overhaul, a new manager in charge and an entirely different approach to matches, Preston may have little idea what to expect from the Hornets. Boothroyd will be hoping this works to Watford's advantage.

As many as nine summer signings could potentially make their debuts for Watford today, with Ben Foster, Sietes, Jordan Stewart, Clarke Carlisle, Marlon King and Junior likely to start, and Adam Griffiths, Martin Devaney and Darius Henderson vying for places on the bench. Gavin Mahon and James Chambers are the only injury doubts, but hopefully both should be passed fit to play.

Preston meanwhile will be missing Andy Lonergan, the 'keeper who saved Paul Devlin's late penalty in the season opener last year, and defender Matt Hill. Carlo Nash will line up in goal. Having lost key winger Eddie Lewis to Leeds, the Lilywhites have sought to bolster their midfield with the signings of Lewis Neal and David Jones this week, as well as young wide player Joe Anyinsah. Their forward options have also been boosted by the addition of Danny Dichio and Dave Hibbert to the already dangerous pairing of Richard Cresswell and David Nugent. Paul McKenna and Chris Sedgwick will provide the ammunition from midfield.

Many pundits, bookies and media sources have Watford down as relegation fodder this season, but those who have a greater understanding of the revolution at the Vic are more optimistic. Even Neil Warnock, who last year accurately backed us to struggle, has suggested we may be the 'surprise package' in the Championship, and looking at the achievements of Preston and Derby last year, then why not?

Key players:

Watford: Marlon King

Preston: David Nugent

Referee: Ian Williamson

Match ods:

Watford 6/4
Preston 6/4
Draw 9/4

Verdict: Preston's easy win at the Vic last season saw the end of Ray's reign at the club. After scraping survival at the end of last season, Aidy's era truly begins now, and it might just be the start of something very special.

Prediction: 3-0 Watford

Preston to be stung by Hornets' physical presence and dynamic forward play.