Javi Gracia Revels in 'Amazing' Day as Watford Seal FA Cup Semi Final Berth

16 March 2019 08:49

​Javi Gracia basked in an 'amazing' day after seeing his Watford side beat Crystal Palace in the FA Cup quarter finals on Saturday - reaching Wembley for the second time in three years.

The home side were largely in control of the first half and took a deserved lead in the 27th minute through Etienne Capoue's well taken strike - with Gerard Deulofeu also denied twice by Vicente Guaita as the hosts went into half time with a slender lead.

Speaking to the ​BBC after the game, Gracia was overjoyed to guide his side to Wembley, highlighting how important the victory meant to all involved with ​Watford.

"It is amazing for all of us, for the players, staff and supporters," the Spaniard said.

"It is an important day to have the chance to enjoy a semi-final, we are keeping the same level, competing well and that it is our target in this moment."

FBL-ENG-FACUP-WATFORD-CRYSTAL PALACE

​Palace came out fighting in the second period and deservedly drew level through Michy Batshuayi, with Roy Hodgson's men looking at the time the more likely side to net a winner.

However, with 12 minutes remaining, Gracia threw on Andre Gray in search of the decisive goal, with the former ​Burnley man needing just two minutes to justify his manager's change after he volleyed home from Roberto Pereyra's dinked pass.

As a result, the Hornets' boss was full of praise for his striker, insisting Gray is always a threat when on the pitch. 

He added: "We put Andre Gray on the pitch, he always has a good chance to score and scores important goals for the team, he deserves it and I am happy for him."

Source: 90min