Troy Deeney provided a rare moment of quality to score the only goal as Watford claimed a potentially vital 1-0 win over Everton.

The Watford skipper’s strike came with 11 minutes to play and decided a game short on chances to take Watford six points clear of the Premier League drop zone.

Both sides struggled to create openings and it took the introduction of Stefano Okaka and Kiko Femenia from the bench to get Watford going.

The duo both played a role in the Watford winner and Okaka looked particularly keen to prove himself having just returned to the Watford squad.

Here’s how the Hornets rated at Vicarage Road.

Orestis Karnezis – 6.5

Prevented Everton bagging a last-gasp leveller after a goalmouth scramble from a corner. Other than a first half stop at his near post relatively untroubled.

With Heurelho Gomes fit again, it spoke volumes of Javi Gracia’s trust in the Greek keeper that he persevered with Karnezis.

Daryl Janmaat – 6

Defensively sound at right-back and looked to get forward when possible. An outlet on the wing and bounced back from a poor display against West Ham last time out.

Adrian Mariappa – 7

A calming influence at the heart of Watford’s defence and put in a number of well-timed tackles to help shackle the Everton attack.

Mariappa’s display in many ways epitomises the resolute defensive approach Gracia has looked to instil in his side since arriving.

Sebastian Prödl – 6

Watford Observer:

One loose touch in the first half almost allowed Theo Walcott in and he was lucky to avoid a booking for hauling the winger back. Solid otherwise.

Jose Holebas – 5.5

The least impressive of Watford’s defenders and gave the ball away time and time again and lacked his usual influence over set pieces. Did grow into the game in the second half.

Abdoulaye Doucouré – 6

Worked hard and it completed more passes than any of his team mates but didn’t drive Watford forward in the manner he usually does.

Etienne Capoue – 6

Like Doucoure struggled to influence proceedings and gave the ball away too readily. Put himself about and made some useful tackles.

Gerard Deulofeu – 6.5

Watford Observer:

For much of the game Watford’s best attacking outlet and had the beating of his marker and managed to put in some dangerous crosses.

Night ended early by injury and Watford will hope he can return soon.

Roberto Pereyra – 5

Anonymous after being given a chance from the start in the wake of strong substitute performances. Little surprise when he was hooked as Watford looked to find a late winner.

Richarlison – 5

Another of Watford’s attackers who failed to make an impact on the game and most of Watford’s better moments came from the opposite flank.

Troy Deeney – 7

Watford Observer:

Held the ball up well in the first period and took his goal in fine fashion to earn a precious three points for the Hornets.

Had worked hard with little reward up until the time of his goal and provided the standout moment of a drab match.

SUBS

Kiko Femenia – 7

Deployed as a right-winger and looked a threat going forward. Forced a good stop from Jordan Pickford with a low shot and was involved in the build up to Deeney’s goal.

Stefano Okaka – 7.5

Back in action for the first time since the FA Cup loss to Southampton and was the game changer with a performance full of energy and purpose.

Provided the cross for the winning goal and went close to a second when turning smartly and fizzing a low shot at goal.

Looked to be a man with a point to prove.

Andre Carrillo – 6

Made the least impact of Watford’s three subs after replacing the injured Deulofeu and looks to be the odd man out when it comes to picking Watford’s wide men.