Southampton 1-0 Watford: Pellegrino proud to progress in the FA Cup
A birthday goal from Jack Stephens sent Southampton into the FA Cup fifth round and condemned new Watford coach Javi Gracia to defeat in his first game.
Stephens, 24, converted from close range to provide some relief for Saints who are winless in 11 league games.
Injury-hit Watford struggled to create but nearly forced a replay when Christian Kabasele headed wide in added time.
Dane Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg hit the crossbar from 30 yards for Southampton.
Striker Shane Long missed a string of chances to ease the nerves of the hosts, who brought on new 拢19m striker Guido Carrillo for his debut as Mauricio Pellegrino looked to kill off the tie.
Gracia also turned to his bench to try and force a replay and Stefano Okaka sent an overhead kick over the bar, but Saints keeper Alex McCarthy had a quiet afternoon.
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