Roberto Pereyra shines as Watford ease to victory vs. Brighton

Updated: May 17, 2023, 05:29 am

Roberto Pereyra scored twice as Watford opened their Premier League campaign with a 2-0 victory over Brighton & Hove Albion on Saturday that had manager Javi Gracia purring.

Pereyra opened the scoring with a volley, showing great composure to sweetly convert from Jose Holebas' corner in the 35th minute.

He doubled the advantage soon after the break, driving into the box before curling a neat finish into the far corner from a tight angle.

Watford had 19 shots and could have won by more against Brighton, who failed to register an effort on target.

"I'm very happy with the result, but happier with the way we got it," Gracia told the BBC. "I think we played a very good game, dominated all the game. They didn't have any shots on target or create any chances. The team showed a good reaction after losing the ball and I am very happy for them.

Roberto Pereyra (r) celebrates scoring his side's second goal of the game against Brighton.
Roberto Pereyra (r) celebrates scoring his side's second goal of the game against Brighton.
Nigel French/PA Images via Getty Images

"I think today we have played the same way [as in] our last game against Sampdoria in preseason: very aggressive, good attitude and ambition. [I am] very proud of my players."

Watford saw Richarlison depart Vicarage Road to join Everton in the summer, but captain Troy Deeney said there was enough quality in the squad for them to build on a 14th-place finish last season.

"People thought we would fall apart because Richarlison left, but this is a great squad," Deeney told the BBC. "We've got Nathaniel Chalobah and Gerard Deulofeu to come back.

"We had a great start [and] got fans behind us early with our pressing, which is what we aimed to do. We had a great preseason and it showed with our fitness towards the end, so long may that continue."