Cucho's double boosts Watford's survival chances

Cucho Hernandez scored twice to give Watford a crucial 2-1 win over Southampton at St Mary's and boost the Hornets' Premier League survival chances.

​​​​​​The result sees Roy Hodgson's side end a run of two straight defeats and move level on points with 17th-placed Everton, who were beaten at home by Wolves.

Watford struck in the 14th minute when Colombian Cucho pounced on a weak back pass by Southampton defender Mohammed Salisu and found the target from a tight angle after rounding goalkeeper Fraser Forster.

An unmarked Cucho doubled Watford's lead 20 minutes later when he steadied himself and volleyed in a cross from Juraj Kucka, after a patient spell of build-up play by the visitors.

Watford had several chances to go 3-0 up but Southampton pulled one back before half-time as Mohamed Elyounoussi tapped in Che Adams' flicked header following a free-kick from captain James Ward-Prowse.

Southampton continued to press after the break but Watford defended bravely and rode their luck late on when they conceded a foul in a dangerous area, as Ward-Prowse narrowly missed the mark from the resulting free-kick. Southampton stay 10th after their third consecutive defeat.

More to follow...

Southampton's next Premier League game against Burnley on Saturday, March 19 has been postponed and they will instead face Manchester City on Sunday, March 20 at 3pm in an FA Cup quarter-final. The Saints will return to league action on Saturday, April 2 at 3pm against Leeds.

Similarly, Watford's league game against Everton on Sunday, March 20 has been postponed and the Hornets' next Premier League fixture will be played against Liverpool on Saturday, April 2 at 12.30pm.