Watford edged a five-goal thriller against Cardiff City on Saturday.

The Hornets led 3-0 after 68 minutes after Gerard Deulofeu's solo strike and curling efforts from Jose Holebas and Domingos Quina.

But the Bluebirds were grateful for goalkeeper Neil Etheridge's display and refused to submit, scoring two goals in three minutes to set up a nervous finale.

Junior Hoilett struck from 25 yards after 80 minutes and Bobby Reid scrambled in a second soon afterwards, but Watford held on to win.

Watford boss Javi Gracia said, “We are very pleased with the result because we have played many games recently and we didn't get the reward maybe we deserved. The victory is very important and after we can analyse the game knowing we have played well.

“In 70 minutes we have scored three goals and their keeper was amazing. In the last part of the game they have scored two goals and we have suffered a little bit, but we had the control of the game and in my opinion we deserved the victory today."