Harry Kewell had a watching brief only as his new Watford Under-21 side were beaten 3-0 at National League South side Maidenhead United on Tuesday night.

If the Watford youngsters were out to impress their new gaffer they did not make a very good job of it as they were soundly beaten at York Road by Alan Devonshire’s part-timers, who were full value for their victory.

Kewell did not take the team and did not make any comment afterwards, but the club’s new Under-21 chief will have had plenty of food for thought as he watched his new charges from the stands while lead professional development coach David Horseman took charge.

A brace from Jake Reid, either side of half time, and a goal from substitute Gavin James gave the hosts a comfortable win which might have been even more emphatic had Hornets keeper Rene Gilmartin not redeemed himself for some erratic kicking with two good saves.

At the other end, the Hornets were powder-puff in attack despite some classy touches in their approach play.

Watford: Gilmartin; Rowan (Folivi), Johnson, Belkalem (Mason), Doherty; Byers, Cook (Makaka); Lewis (Obi), Mensah, Martin; Jakubiak.

Subs not used: Gartside (GK).