Watford's Championship play-off hopes are all but over after a 2-1 loss to Bristol City. The Hornets, who have now not won in three games, had early chances but an injury to Kwadwo Baah affected their rhythm.

What happened?

Bristol City scored twice in four first-half minutes to move into the Championship play-off places. Max Bird pounced on a slip from James Abankwah and, after Nahki Wells was tackled, the ball fell kindly to Ross McCrorie who scored with an angled shot. Wells made it 2-0 in controversial fashion, the striker smashing a low effort past keeper Egil Selvik for his ninth goal of the season.

Why it matters for Watford

The visitors barely threatened to get back in the game until substitute Mamadou Doumbia's neat turn and finish gave his side hope with 10 minutes left. But Tom Cleverley's side were unable to find a leveller and slip seven points behind the Robins.

What comes next?

Watford's next fixture is against Boreham Wood on July 11, 2026. As of June 27, 2026, Watford stands 16th in the Championship with 57 points from 46 games. | Category | Value | | --- | --- | | League Standing | 16th | | Points | 57 | | Recent Form | LLLLL | | Goals This Season | 53 scored, 65 conceded | | Title Race | 38 points behind leaders Coventry | Watford will look to bounce back from this loss and finish the season strong.