Watford Climbs to Fourth with Vakoun Bayo's Decisive Strike
Oxford, still searching for their first away win this season, mounted a late charge to salvage a point, even sending Cumming forward for a set piece. However, they couldn’t produce the moment of quality needed to equalize, leaving them winless in seven away fixtures and 16th in the table.
09 NOV
A second-half goal from Vakoun Bayo lifted Watford to fourth in the Championship standings as they edged out Oxford United in a tightly contested match. Bayo’s perseverance paid off in the 53rd minute, scoring on the rebound after his initial shot was saved by Oxford goalkeeper Jamie Cumming. This marked Bayo’s fifth goal in three matches, continuing his strong form following a four-goal haul in the recent 6-2 thrashing of Sheffield Wednesday.
Early Exchanges and Missed Opportunities
Both teams came into the match with little recovery time, having played midweek fixtures on Tuesday. Oxford had secured a narrow 1-0 win over Hull City, while Watford fell 1-0 to Swansea City. The fatigue showed early on, with a lack of sharpness in front of goal.
Oxford created the first real chance late in the first half when Peter Kioso delivered a curling cross from the right, but Dane Scarlett narrowly missed making contact to convert at the back post. Watford nearly struck just before the break as Festy Ebosele’s cross found Imran Louza, whose well-hit half-volley was deflected for a corner.
Second-Half Breakthrough
Watford came out energized after halftime and nearly scored immediately. Ebosele broke through on goal but appeared to be unsettled by a slight nudge from Kioso, losing his balance and failing to shoot. Despite appeals for a penalty, referee Anthony Backhouse ruled no foul had occurred.
The breakthrough came in the 53rd minute when Kwadwo Baah’s blistering pace on the right flank unsettled the Oxford defense. His cut-back pass found Bayo, whose first attempt was stopped by Cumming. However, Bayo remained composed, slotting home the rebound to put the Hornets ahead.
Late Drama and Defensive Stands
Bayo had a chance to double Watford’s lead late on but was denied again by the quick reflexes of Cumming. Oxford, refusing to back down, came close in the dying minutes. Mark Harris attempted an acrobatic overhead kick from close range but sent the effort just over the bar.
Despite their late efforts, Oxford left the game empty-handed. They remain in 16th place with 17 points, reflecting their struggles on the road this season.
Managerial Note and Historical Context
Watford manager Tom Cleverley received a booking in the second half, resulting in a touchline ban for their next match against Plymouth Argyle. This added a layer of intrigue as the Hornets look to maintain their momentum.
The match also marked the first league encounter between Watford and Oxford since the 1998-99 season, a campaign that saw Watford earn promotion while Oxford suffered relegation.
Looking Ahead
For Watford, the victory reinforces their push for promotion, with Bayo’s form proving instrumental. Meanwhile, Oxford will need to address their struggles on the road if they hope to climb the table in their return to the Championship. Both teams face crucial fixtures ahead, with Watford visiting Plymouth and Oxford hosting Southampton as the battle for league positions intensifies.
