An experienced Watford Under-21 side were unable to end their winless run in Professional Development League 2 South as the Hornets were beaten 2-1 at London Colney this afternoon by Huddersfield Town. 

New signings Victor Ibarbo, Obbi Oulare and Miguel Britos all started, as did Hornets legend Lloyd Doyley who was playing for the first time since undergoing neck surgery in May.

Former Tottenham Hotspur midfielder Laste Dombaxe, who is undergoing a trial, was also included in the starting XI.

Watford were the better side during the first period and broke the deadlock in the 12th minute.

Ibarbo received a pass and jinked his way past two Huddersfield defender before firing home from the edge of the box.

The Colombian international almost created Watford’s second as his deep cross was met by Oulare, however, his header was well saved.

Kewell’s side controlled the opening period and should have doubled their advantage shortly before the interval.

Ibarbo’s through pass released Dennon Lewis. The youngster strode forward with the ball but drilled his shot against the crossbar.

Watford led at half time but Huddersfield started the second period strongly and equalised four minutes after the restart through Rekeil Pyke.

The Terriers striker did well to get in front of Miguel Britos and turn a cross into the net.

Less than 60 seconds after equalising Huddersfield went in front as Sondre Tronstad headed home a Jack Senior cross.

Ibarbo was brought off just before the hour mark with Bernard Mensah his replacement. It was a scheduled change but the forward did complain of suffering from cramp as he left the field.

The young Hornets’ threat faded as the half progressed. Mensah volleyed wide before Oulare was unable to hit the target from 18 yards.

Despite their best efforts Watford’s youngsters were unable to find a way back into the contest and they are without a win in seven league matches.

Watford: Gilmartin; Doyley, Young, Britos, Doherty; Stewart, Dombaxe (Charles 71); Jakubiak, Lewis, Ibarbo (Mensah 57); Oulare.