Quique Sanchez Flores felt his Watford players weren’t focused during the first half of their defeat to Stoke City, stating the Hornets “forgot the plan” against the Potters.

The Golden Boys were beaten 2-1 at Vicarage Road this afternoon but the final scoreline doesn’t reflect Stoke's dominance during the contest.

They led at half time via a goal from Johnathan Walters before Joselu added a second midway through the second period.

Mark Hughes’ side had several chances to add to their lead but didn’t take them.

Troy Deeney’s 86th minute goal ensured a nervy finish for the visitors but they were able to see out the game and claim victory.

After the euphoria of last weekend’s FA Cup quarter final win over Arsenal, this was a heavy bump back down to reality for the Hornets, who are not yet safe in the Premier League. 

What is clear is we didn’t play well. The performance was really bad,” a disappointed Flores said after the game.

“We were very disappointed with the first half, it is the first time we have the feeling that we started the match late.

“The second half we played much better. In the first half we weren’t completely focused. There was a feeling that we forgot the plan in the first half.

“We didn’t play as a team. Three or four players were always late in the defensive phase and the attacking phase. We were not in the match.”

The Spaniard added: “Stoke for one hour dominated everything. They dominated the ball, the dominated counter attacks and the second balls. They did everything.

“In the first half it was impossible to stop their players. With Greg Whelan, Giannelli Imbula and Ibrahim Afellay they dominated the midfield.

“We were late for everything. When we put pressure or had the balll we made bad decisions.

“At half time we spoke. I think we had a reaction in the second. What was a pity was the moment I called (Adlene) Guedioura and (Nordin) Amrabat was the moment we conceded the second goal. Then it was very difficult.”