Twice Watford Under-21s came from a goal down only to be hit by a stoppage-time strike as they lost 3-2 to Bristol City at Ashton Gate this afternoon.
City came into the game on the back of three consecutive defeats, while Watford had endured an identical run which they brought to an end with a goalless draw at QPR last week.
However, both sides were seeking to end a run of five league games without a win, but while City managed to do that, the young Hornets are now six without a victory.
Following a fairly open first 10 minutes, City went ahead when Ruebin Sheppard picked out Raphael Araoye at the back post from a free-kick, and he turned the ball into the net.
The hosts continued to press and in the 22nd minute Taine Anderson’s teasing low cross from the left evaded everyone as it flashed across the face of goal.
Watford drew level seven minutes before half-time when Jonathan Lawson found a way past two defenders before slotting home.
Three minutes later the Robins threatened to regain the lead when defender Kai Churchley shot wide from the edge of the area.
Keeper Sam Morris came to the Hornets’ rescue six minutes into the second half when he was off his line quickly to deny Churchley after he had been slipped into the box by Jaiden Foxwell.
Shortly after that Tobi Adeyemo got his head to a free kick but home keeper Stefan Bajic saved.
City regained the lead after 57 minutes when Billy Phillips centred for Sheppard to make it 2-1 with a back-post finish.
For the second time, though, Watford responded well and levelled in the 66th minute through Ignacio Garcia-Romero, who volleyed home after Jake Watkiss had a shot blocked.
Six minutes from the end Lawson came close to putting the Hornets ahead for the first time when his close-range header went just wide.
Just when it looked like Watford would be heading back east with a point, the home side struck three minutes into stoppage time.
This time Churchley wasn’t to be denied as he made the most of space down the left flank to cut inside and send a shot inside the far post.
Supporters can attend the next Under-21s game as they host Coventry City at Vicarage Road on Monday March 31, kick-off 2pm.
Watford: Morris; Gould (Mullins 88), Buers, Gaspar, Akomeah, Clarridge, Lawson (Smith 88), Sikiru (Eames 60), Adeyemo (Keyes 79), Watkiss, Garcia
