Watford Under-23s' up-and-down form continued as they alternated back to another victory against Bristol City at London Colney today.

The visitors came into the game on the back of a five-game unbeaten run, while Watford have now won three and lost three of their last six games, with each of their victories followed immediately by a defeat.

But they moved up to fifth in the Professional Development League with a 2-0 win over the Robins this afternoon, with Cameron Pring's own goal setting them on their way.

Randell Williams, praised by Craig Bellamy last week, sealed victory after half-time, while Nathan Gartside stood strong between the sticks to earn a welcome clean sheet.

He tipped the first chance of the game, a Connor Lemonheigh-Evans free-kick, over the bar before saving from Rory Holden, as Watford took their time to get into their stride.

But once they did, they found a way through immediately. Dion Pereira got away down the right thanks to some fancy footwork and his low cross was turned into the City net by Pring, under pressure from Michael Folivi.

It could have been two just before the break from Joy Mukena's through ball, but Williams was thwarted by City goalkeeper Jojo Wollacott.

The stopper also kept out Folivi's effort before the two sides changed ends, but could do little to keep out a Williams shot on the hour mark which would give the hosts their second goal.

By that time Andrew Eleftheriou had rattled a post and Jake Andrews pulled another good save out of Gartside.

In another bonus for the hosts Alex Jakubiak stepped up his recovery with half an hour off the bench, which added the gloss to a good performance and result at the training ground.

Watford: Gartside; Stevens, Rowan, Mukena; Eleftheriou, Charles, Stewart (Ryan, 72), Mason (Rogers, 80); Pereira; Folivi (Jakubiak, 62), Williams.

Not used: Hoskins, Sesay.