Watford 0 – 3 Leeds

Leeds United took a giant stride towards Premier League safety while deepening Watford’s relegation fears with a 3-0 victory at Vicarage Road on Saturday.

Raphinha rifled Leeds in front with a sumptuous near-post drive (21) and the visitors, having weathered Watford’s spirited yet toothless attempted fightback, sealed a priceless victory with a ruthless late flourish.

Rodrigo capitalised on a calamitous mix-up involving Watford defenders Hassane Kamara and Samir to double Leeds’ advantage 17 minutes from time, before Jack Harrison put the win beyond doubt with a rasping drive into the far corner (85).

After defeats in his first two games in charge, Jesse Marsch has guided Leeds to three victories in a four-game unbeaten run which has lifted the Yorkshire club seven points clear of the relegation zone and with another season of top-flight football within reach.

By contrast, Watford’s Premier League days and Roy Hodgson’s record of never being relegated from the top flight of England football look numbered, with the Hornets six points from safety with seven games remaining after slumping to an eighth consecutive home defeat.

More to follow.

What’s next for Leeds?

Leeds are not back in action in the Premier League until April 25, when they travel to Crystal Palace; kick-off 8pm.

Watford’s remaining fixtures

April 16 – Brentford (h)

April 23 – Man City (a)

April 30 – Burnley (h)

May 7 – Crystal Palace (a)

May 10 – Everton (h)

May 15 – Leicester (h)

May 22 – Chelsea (a)