Watford’s Under-18s made it through to the semi-final of the Youth Alliance Cup southern section after completing a 5-3 win against Dagenham & Redbridge.

The Daggers broke the deadlock when Lee Hursit struck but the young Hornets responded superbly and led 3-1 at the interval after a brace from Michael Folivi and a goal from Dennon Lewis.

Connor Stevens extended Watford’s advantage in the second period before Dagenham's Under-18s, who are managed by ex-Golden Boys midfielder Micah Hyde, reduced the deficit following strikes from Darren Foxley and Alfie Moulder.

But the Hornets ensured their passage into the last four of the southern section when Stevens headed in a corner to complete the win.

Watford’s lead professional development coach David Horseman took charge of the side and praised the youngsters after a hectic month.

"We've played seven games in 15 days,” he told the club website. “All our work on the training ground has been match-based. We play, recover, play, recover, with 15 outfield players.

"The lads have done brilliantly and so have the staff. It's given me a real chance to get to know the boys and hopefully now we'll have time between the games to work with individuals."

Watford: Gartside; Eleftheriou (Mason, 67), Martin, Stevens, Rowan, Young, Wallen (Obi, 80), Cook, Lewis, Choi (Otudeko, 80), Folivi.