Watford and Crystal Palace have played out a goalless first 45 minutes in Sunday's Premier League clash at Vicarage Road.

Palace launched their first attack immediately from kickoff, but after making ground in the Watford half, Yannick Bolasie's final effort did not test the hosts.

Watford's first attempt came from Etienne Capoue, who struck one from distance, but his fourth-minute effort was always moving wide of the post.

Brede Hangeland had the first real chance in the 13th minute after meeting a free kick from Yohan Cabaye, but Heurelho Gomes was on hand to make a point-blank save and keep the two teams on level terms.

Both sides continued to threaten as the first period progressed, while a host of late challenges from Watford presented Palace with a number of chances to threaten from free kicks in forward positions.

Troy Deeney, who is still waiting for his first league goal of the season, came close with a header for Watford in the 30th minute, but the home side's captain could not get proper contact on a deep cross from Jurado.

Both teams continued to commit players forward in the latter stages of the first period, but with the final ball lacking, the pair entered the break on level terms.

Watford are attempting to record their third straight win in the top flight for the first time in their history, while Palace are looking to respond from back-to-back league defeats.

Written by
Matt Law