Sargent Scores Again

Forward Scores His Third in Two Matches in Norwich Victory

Josh Sargent scored the decisive goal in Norwich City's 1-0 victory over 10-man Watford, keeping the Canaries' Championship play-off hopes alive. The match turned dramatically after Vakoun Bayo's red card in the 34th minute, setting the stage for Sargent's match-winning moment.

Early in the game, Sargent nearly opened the scoring with a point-blank shot well-saved by Jonathan Bond. His persistence paid off just before halftime when he tapped home from close range following a deflected free-kick by Emiliano Marcondes. This goal was Sargent's seventh of an injury-interrupted season and his third in two matches, signaling his return to form after being sidelined in November and December.

The goal came at a crucial time for Norwich, following Bayo's dismissal for shoving Marcondes in the throat during a corner. Norwich capitalized on their numerical advantage, with head coach Johannes Hoff Thorup noting, "We were good, and we were dominant."

Watford manager Tom Cleverley was frustrated by the result and criticized the referee and Norwich's tactics: "Unfortunately, the referee has been played. I thought Norwich were good at the dark arts." Despite his complaints, Watford struggled to create meaningful chances after going a man down.

Sargent's goal is particularly significant as he is currently the only fit "first-team" forward for the U.S. Men's National Team ahead of March's CONCACAF Nations League semifinal matches. During the 2023-24 season, he has already scored 16 goals and provided two assists for Norwich.

The victory moves Norwich a point above Watford in the Championship standings, maintaining their play-off aspirations and highlighting Sargent's growing importance to the team.