West Brom has ensured its safety in the Sky Bet Championship, pending a potential points deduction, following a decisive 3-0 victory over Watford at The Hawthorns. Isaac Price initiated the scoring and assisted Daryl Dike's second goal in as many games before halftime, contributing to James Morrison's side extending its unbeaten streak to nine games.
On-loan Crystal Palace right-back Danny Imray added a well-deserved third goal for the Baggies, who have now gone 488 minutes without conceding. The outcome of a hearing regarding alleged Profit and Sustainability Rules infringements will determine the team's final standing. For now, West Brom celebrates one of its most one-sided wins of the season, with Watford managing only one on-target effort. The match began with Price threatening early, but his low 25-yard drive was directly at goalkeeper Egil Selvik.
However, Price capitalized on his next opportunity, breaking the deadlock in the 21st minute with a first-time shot from 12 yards after Imray's teasing cross. Watford's Nampalys Mendy came close to an equalizer with a full-blooded volley that was tipped away by goalkeeper Max O'Leary. The visitors' captain, Mattie Pollock, was booked for a late challenge on Price. Dike's looping header from Alex Mowatt's cross went wide, but his next attempt proved decisive, ending in the roof of the net from Price's curling free-kick.
The second half saw Watford's James Abankwah booked for holding at a corner, while Albion's Jayson Molumby received a yellow card for a late tackle. Mowatt sliced a 20-yard volley over from Price's knockdown as Albion broke from Watford possession. Luca Kjerrumgaard missed a great chance to reduce the deficit, heading weakly at O'Leary.
Albion sealed the win with a clinical third goal, as Imray side-footed home after Josh Maja set him up following Price's knockdown. Watford's Othmane Maamma missed two fine chances in the closing stages, blazing over and then firing straight at O'Leary.
West Brom's manager, James Morrison, praised his players for overcoming a difficult period and expressed his desire for them to continue performing well. He acknowledged the challenges faced by Watford, citing the team's previous experiences and the impact of loan players and contracts. The Super 6 competition offers a £250,000 prize, with entries accepted until 3 pm on Saturday.