Watford's late push for a playoff place was boosted by a comfortable 3-0 over an out-of-form Leeds United side at Vicarage Road this evening.

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The Whites, with only one win from their previous 11 games, fell behind inside nine minutes when Iketchi Anya crossed for Almen Abdi and the Swiss midfielder nodded the ball past Stoke City loanee Jack Butland.

Brian McDermott's side were lucky not have trailed sooner, but for Marco Faraoni's shot being blocked by the visitors' defence.

Leeds showed little in attack and only Ross McCormack's shot from 35 yards out came close to troubling Almunia midway through the first half.

Watford increased their advantage on 32 minutes when Faraoni turned provider, and his pinpoint delivery served up an unstoppable header from Anya.

The Hornets looked comfortable for the most part in the opening period, but they were put under pressure after the interval as both Cameron Stewart and Noel Hunt tested the home side's defence.

However, Brian McDermott's charges were unable to take their chances and were punished for their profligacy when Troy Deeney smashed his shot home from close range on 67 minutes.

Leeds became more desperate in their attempts to find a goal, with Dominic Poleon shooting from distance but seeing his effort saved by Almunia as Watford held on for a resounding victory.