It's difficult to know exactly how to describe Watford's 4-0 reverse at Spurs yesterday. For half an hour, everything was going to plan, despite a patched-up defence.

But three goals in 11 minutes, which while all high-quality were eminently avoidable, ended the game before the interval.

Without any real pressure on either side after the break, Watford still kept going and came close to testing Hugo Lloris several times, but notably did not trouble the returning stopper once.

Spurs were always likely to win the game given their form, class and Watford's absentees - but the scoreline is an undeniable disappointment.

Here's how we rated the Hornets at White Hart Lane:

Watford Observer: Picture: Action ImagesPicture: Action Images

Heurelho Gomes
Made a good early save and could have done better with the second goal, which was nowhere near the corner. Little chance with others and none of his usual theatrics. 6

Daryl Janmaat
Always keen to get forwards and made crucial block in second half after Adrian Mariappa & Craig Cathcart let Eriksen through. Allowed far too much to come down Spurs’ left and Heung-Min Son often had him on toast. 5.5

Craig Cathcart
Turned for early chance but could have scored too. Turned inside and out by Dele Alli at times. 5.5

Watford Observer: Picture: Action ImagesPicture: Action Images

Adrian Mariappa
Should have closed down Son for third but made some important contributions early on. Confusion with Cathcart in second half nearly led to embarrassing chance. 6

Jose Holebas
Caught out of position on occasion, but not helped by unpredictable tracking from M'Baye Niang. Several good deliveries and set up Troy Deeney for what should've been consolation. 6.5

Tom Cleverley
Good range of passing at times, but struggled to keep hold of Alli and co in the middle - will always struggle in a midfield two against quality like that. Succession of poor set-pieces as well. 5.5

Watford Observer: Picture: Action ImagesPicture: Action Images

Abdoulay Doucoure 
Defended well for first half hour but then went missing, especially for third goal. Did not offer back four cover they needed - but again, partly a victim of formation. 5.5

M’Baye Niang
Always an outlet on the left. Proved tricky for Trippier but drifted in and out of the game. Played lovely ball through for Stefano Okaka after half-time. 6

Nordin Amrabat
Good early running and always willing to receive the ball. Didn't appear to have set position and increasingly ineffective before being substituted. No real passion in chasing down Alli for opener. 5.5

Watford Observer: Picture: Action ImagesPicture: Action Images

Isaac Success
Showed his physical presence but looked raw. Never gave Ben Davies a moment's rest and was a nuisance down the right, especially before half-time. Final ball needs work. 6.5

Stefano Okaka
Not often in the game before half-time but useful when called upon. More mobile in the second half and linked up well with rest of front three. 6.5

Substitutes

Camilo Zuniga (for Doucoure 59) - Got himself about. Looked fresher than the man he replaced despite not playing in his natural position. 6

Troy Deeney (for Amrabat 70) - Missed Watford’s best chance when he refused to shoot on his left, and did little else to affect the game. 5

Christian Kabasele (for Okaka 84) - N/A