West Bromwich Albion wrapped up their Sky Bet Championship safety – albeit with a pending investigation that could lead to a points deduction – by delivering a dominant 3-0 triumph against Watford at The Hawthorns. The victory not only cemented their place in the league but also extended their unbeaten run to nine matches, showcasing a level of resilience that had been missing for much of the season.
The opening goal came from Isaac Price, who struck early and then set up Daryl Dike for his second consecutive goal before the break. The Baggies were relentless, and the first half ended with them having not conceded a goal for 488 minutes, a defensive record that highlighted their newfound solidity at the back.
Crystal Palace loanee right‑back Danny Imray added a well‑deserved third, sealing a comprehensive win that left Watford with just a single shot on target for the entire match. The result was a clear statement: West Brom had found a formula that combined attacking flair with defensive discipline.
The win, however, does not close the chapter on the club's season. A forthcoming hearing will examine alleged breaches of the EFL’s Profit and Sustainability Rules, which could result in a points deduction. Until that decision is rendered, the Baggies can at least celebrate a performance that will be remembered as one of their most decisive victories of the campaign. The match began with a ferocious low drive from Price, a 25‑yard effort that tested Watford keeper Egil Selvik but ultimately flew straight at him.
Undeterred, Price capitalised on a second chance just minutes later. After a teasing cross from Imray, he slotted a first‑time shot from 12 yards into the net in the 21st minute, breaking the deadlock and setting the tone for the rest of the game.
Watford responded almost immediately. Two minutes after conceding, Nampalys Mendy unleashed a powerful volley that was tipped away by West Brom’s goalkeeper Max O'Leary, keeping the visitors within touching distance. The tension rose further when Watford captain Mattie Pollock received a booking for a late challenge on Price as the attacking midfielder attempted to cut inside from the flank. West Brom continued to press.
A cross from Alex Mowatt found Dike, whose looping header drifted wide, but the effort demonstrated the Baggies’ intent to keep the pressure on. The decisive moment arrived in the 41st minute when Price delivered a curling free‑kick from the right.
Dike rose above the defence and powered a header into the roof of the net, doubling West Brom’s lead. The second half saw Watford’s centre‑back James Abankwah booked for a foul during an Albion corner, while West Brom midfielder Jayson Molumby received a yellow card for a late tackle on Kevin Keben.
Despite the bookings, the Baggies maintained their rhythm. Mowatt attempted a 20‑yard volley from a Price knockdown, but it sailed over the bar, underscoring Watford’s growing frustration. Watford had a chance to get back into the game when Luca Kjerrumgaard rose to meet a cross from Othmane Maamma, only to head the ball weakly straight at O'Leary. The missed opportunity highlighted the disparity in quality between the two sides on the day.
The third goal arrived in the 69th minute. Imray, who had already contributed an assist, side‑footed home after a clever lay‑off from Josh Maja. The move originated from a deep cross by Price, which Molumby had initially sent forward before it was redirected into the danger area.
Imray’s finish capped a clinical display and put the result beyond doubt. Watford made a late push, with Maamma creating two clear chances in the dying minutes of regular time. He first blasted over the bar and then struck a shot that flew directly at O'Leary, failing to narrow the deficit.
After the final whistle, West Brom manager James Morrison praised his squad, saying, "Credit to the players – they have come through a difficult time and pulled themselves up. I want the players to continue playing the way they are; as professionals, there is a job to do.
My job is to keep on top of the players and make sure we finish the season well." Morrison acknowledged the emotional toll of the season, noting, "It’s hugely hurtful and painful because I am accountable to those fans. But I am going to continue on with real perseverance, seeking confidence and a reaction from the players. Part of it (Watford's run) is understandable because many of them have suffered before and are carrying the scar tissue of previous seasons.
Some are out of contract or on loan, and it’s also a young group, for some of whom it’s their first time dealing with this sort of run." The win also secured a £250,000 prize in the Super 6 competition, a free‑to‑play contest that adds an extra incentive for fans. Entries close at 3 pm on Saturday, offering supporters a chance to celebrate the Baggies’ success both on and off the pitch. Overall, West Brom’s performance against Watford was a masterclass in balancing attacking intent with defensive resilience. The three‑goal margin, combined with a clean sheet, underlines a side that has finally found its rhythm at a crucial juncture of the season.
While the upcoming EFL hearing remains a looming uncertainty, the Baggies can take pride in a display that not only secured their league status but also sent a clear message to rivals: they are capable of delivering high‑quality football when it matters most.