Dwight Gayle netted in a first-half dominated by Steve Bruce’s men, but two penalties from Troy Deeney – both coming after sloppy second half fouls from the Magpies – handed the home side victory.
So who emerged with any credit from a disappointing defeat? Scroll down and click through the pages as Miles Starforth dishes out his ratings from Vicarage Road:
9. Matt Ritchie
Delivered a superb corner for Gayle’s goal, caught Femenia for Watford’s penalty. 6 Photo: LEE SMITH
10. Miguel Almiron
Ran himself into the ground after sitting out the City game, but not a goal threat. 6 Photo: LAURENCE GRIFFITHS
11. Dwight Gayle
Showed a great striker’s instinct for the goal, his third since football restarted, also played well outside the box. 7 Photo: OWEN HUMPHREYS
12. Joelinton
(for Ritchie, 72) - Almost put Gayle through on goal after coming on. 6 Photo: MICHAEL REGAN