Watford suffered their first defeat of the season as they were beaten 2-1 by Manchester United at Vicarage Road.

The Hornets trailed 2-0 at the half-time break after Romelu Lukaku and Chris Smalling found the net for United.

An improved showing in the second period saw Watford come back into the game and reduce the arrears thanks to Andre Gray’s second goal of the season.

Try as they might Watford couldn’t find a leveller as the United defence stood firm. Here’s how we rated Watford in the Premier League clash.

Ben Foster – 6.5

Made some smart saves in a first period which saw Paul Pogba and Alexis Sanchez go close for the visitors.

Could have been more commanding for the opening goal as cross into the box found Lukaku in space in the six yard box.

Daryl Janmaat – 6

Much of United’s better moments came on the Dutchman’s flank as Ashley Young and Sanchez linked up well.

Tried to get forward but his crossing was often found wanted.

Christian Kabasele – 7

Watford Observer:

Shackled the physical presence of compatriot Lukaku and made one superb last-ditch tackle in the second half to prevent United making it 3-1.

Craig Cathcart – 7

Made a similarly impressive intervention to prevent Sanchez scoring in the second period and was a calming influence in defence.

His distribution was also on point and helped Watford get the ball into their attackers quickly.

Jose Holebas – 6.5

Not his finest game in a season which has seen Holebas come to be a key contributor to Watford’s success.

Final ball was found wanting on a number of occasions and also struggled to find his range from set-pieces.

Will Hughes – 6

Watford Observer:

Worked hard in defence but had little impact on the game in an attacking sense as he drifted in and out of the game.

Etienne Capoue – 6.5

The less effective of Watford’s central midfield pairing as Pogba and Nemanja Matic gave him plenty to worry about.

Did well late in the game to keep Watford ticking over as they looked to find a late leveller.

Abdoulaye Doucoure – 7

Up against Pogba, Doucoure gave a fine showing full of energy. The French midfielder kept possession well and was one of the main driving forces to the Hornets’ attacks.

Provided the assist for Watford’s goal after a powerful run.

Roberto Pereyra – 6.5

Looked dangerous at times coming off his wing and kept Antonio Valencia on his toes for much of the evening.

Andre Gray – 7

One of his better showings so far in a Watford shirt, Gray took his goal well with a placed finish.

Held up possession at the point of the attack and his relationship with Troy Deeney continues to offer encouraging signs.

Troy Deeney – 7

Watford Observer:

Unfortunate to see a good effort well saved by David De Gea in the first period. The Watford skipper linked up the play between midfield and attack and brought others into play with smart touches.

SUBS

Kiko Femenia – 6

Brought on for Janmaat and offered an attacking outlet as he put dangerous crosses into the box.

Adam Masina – N/A

Came on with the game all but over and looked to get forward when possible.

Isaac Success – N/A

Played just two minutes.