Super Scott Loach is Watford's hero as he pulls out all the stops

Between the sticks: Tom Cleverley's early strike proved to be enough for Watford thanks to Scott Loach's heroics
Ben Hunt11 April 2012

Watford boss Malky Mackay hailed Scott Loach after the goalkeeper inspired his side to a 1-0 win over Plymouth in the Championship last night.

Tom Cleverley's early strike proved to be enough for Watford thanks to Loach's heroics.

Mackay said: "He made two or three world-class saves and I don't say that lightly. There were a couple of reaction saves that were just immense and that's why he's England Under-21 goalkeeper at the moment."

The manager was also impressed by the resilience his inexperienced side showed. He said: "To come to Plymouth, win 1-0 and withstand the pressure we did near the end with that young team makes me proud.

"We had 10 academy products in the squad. I see the maturity of two or three of our players and I think it's outstanding."

On loan Manchester United midfielder Cleverley has now hit three goals in five games and they have helped lift the Hornets into sixth place in the table.

Mackay added: "We did our homework with him and he's settled immediately. He's a great young character.

"He's enthusiastic and he's settled into the group within five minutes, he's scored goals and he's set goals. Tom has shown a real willingness to be a team player."

Meanwhile, QPR'S Championship match with struggling Crystal Palace was postponed just 45 minutes before kick-off due to a waterlogged Loftus Road pitch.

QPR boss Jim Magilton said: "We were really looking forward to it, so we're bitterly disappointed."

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