West Brom has guaranteed its safety in the Sky Bet Championship, pending a potential points deduction, following a resounding 3-0 victory over Watford at The Hawthorns. Isaac Price initiated the scoring and assisted Daryl Dike's second goal in as many matches before halftime, extending James Morrison's side's unbeaten streak to nine games. On-loan Crystal Palace right-back Danny Imray sealed the win with a well-deserved third goal, marking 488 minutes since West Brom last conceded.
Although the team must await the outcome of a hearing regarding alleged Profit and Sustainability Rules infringements, they have secured safety for now, achieving one of their most dominant victories of the season. Watford managed only one on-target effort throughout the match.
West Brom's initial threat came from Price's powerful 25-yard drive, which was blocked by 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 cross. Watford's Nampalys Mendy came close to equalizing with a full-blooded volley, but it was tipped away by goalkeeper Max O'Leary.
Dike ultimately scored the decisive second goal, heading Price's curling free-kick into the net in the 41st minute. The second half saw bookings for Watford's James Abankwah and West Brom's Jayson Molumby.
Albion sealed the win with Imray's clinical finish in the 69th minute, following a setup by Josh Maja. Watford's Othmane Maamma missed two late chances to reduce the deficit.
Following the match, West Brom's James Morrison praised his players for persevering through a challenging period and expressed his desire for them to maintain their current form. Morrison acknowledged the hurt and pain caused by the team's previous struggles but emphasized his commitment to guiding the players through the remainder of the season.