Fourth round action in the FA Cup takes place this week, as the final sides that will reach the fifth round will be determined. There will be an all-Championship clash at St. Mary’s, as Southampton bid to continue their excellent form by landing victory against Watford.
FA Cup Preview
It has been a stunning season for Southampton in the Championship, as they are on course to secure an immediate return to the Premier League. However, they would have likely wanted to avoid a replay following a 1-1 away draw against Watford a few weeks ago. But, they remain the clear favourites to progress back on front of their home fans.
The Saints have an excellent home record in FA Cup ties after scoring in 27 of their last 18 matches in the competition at St. Mary’s. The only match in which they failed to score over that period came in a 5-0 defeat against Arsenal in January 2017.
It hasn’t been the season that Watford would have been hoping for this term, as they face a huge challenge to finish in a playoff spot in the Championship. However, the FA Cup could offer the team some much needed rest bite.
However, the Hornets have suffered defeats in each of their last four away matches in the competition. They haven’t endured a longer losing sequence in the FA Cup since losing seven on the bounce between 1906 and 1921. Meanwhile, they have suffered defeats in seven of their last ten replays. But, their only wins over that period were picked up in home matches, with each of their last six on the road ending in defeat.
Southampton vs Watford Head to Head
Southampton holds an excellent advantage based on the recent meetings after avoiding defeat in 16 of their last 18 matches against the Hornets across all competitions. However, both of their defeats over that period were suffered in home matches. Watford have lost four of their five FA Cup ties against the Saints.
Southampton vs Watford Prediction
Southampton needed to work hard in the closing stages to secure a replay against Watford in the first clash at the end of last month. We fully expect them to complete the job in this replay on Tuesday. The Saints have excellent recent form to call upon, while they have dominated their previous clashes with the Hornets.
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