Jeremy Ngakia’s stunning second-half strike earned Watford a valuable three points in the Sky Bet Championship as they overcame fellow play-off contenders Bristol City at Ashton Gate.

The win sees the Hornets leapfrog the Robins into seventh place, narrowing the gap to the top six and tightening an already congested race for the play‑off positions.

Watford made the perfect start after just seven minutes.

Luca Kjerrumgaard showed great composure inside the area, lifting the ball over Radek Vitek to give the visitors an early advantage.

Ed Still's side continued to threaten on the break, and they came close to doubling their lead when Nestory Irankunda struck the post with a powerful effort.

But the home side grew into the contest and found their equaliser shortly before the interval.

Scott Twine met a pinpoint Adam Randell cross and guided a deft header beyond Ben Hamer to send the sides level into the break.

Both teams pushed for a winner in the second half, yet it was Watford who produced the game’s decisive moment.

Ngakia collected possession outside the box and unleashed a magnificent curling strike into the top corner - leaving Vitek with no chance and the travelling supporters in raptures.

The Hornets held firm in the closing stages to secure a significant away success, moving to within three points of sixth‑placed Wrexham ahead of the remainder of the weekend’s fixtures.

Ngakia thunderbolt lifts Watford to victory at play-off rivals Bristol City

Ngakia thunderbolt lifts Watford to victory at play-off rivals Bristol City