Watford head coach Alessio Dionisi has admitted he is still learning about the Championship after his side secured a crucial 1-0 victory over Lincoln City.
The Italian was delighted with his players’ response to Saturday’s defeat at Norwich City, but warned that another difficult challenge awaits when league leaders Middlesbrough visit Vicarage Road.
The Hornets secured all three points thanks to Stephy Mavididi’s controversial deflected strike shortly after half-time, ending a difficult few days for Dionisi. Watford had surrendered a two-goal lead to lose 3-2 at Norwich, but responded with a determined performance against Lincoln to record a much-needed clean sheet and victory.
Dionisi Learning About Championship Demands
Dionisi, who arrived in English football this summer following spells managing Sassuolo, Palermo and Empoli in Italy, admitted that the competitiveness of the Championship had surprised him.
He highlighted Lincoln’s physical approach and set-piece threat as examples of the different challenges teams face in the division, before turning his attention to Saturday’s meeting with Middlesbrough.
“Yes, I didn’t know the Championship before this year. It’s very difficult, yes, to play. It’s very difficult to play against every team,” he said post-match.
“For example, Lincoln. It’s difficult to play against Lincoln because Lincoln always play long balls, free kicks, corners. They’re strong and it’s not easy.
“Saturday will be very, very, very difficult because Middlesbrough, in this moment, are the best and probably in the future Middlesbrough will finish in a high position.”
The victory was particularly significant given the circumstances surrounding Watford’s previous result. Dionisi had been visibly furious following the collapse at Carrow Road, but his reaction at full-time against Lincoln was markedly different as he celebrated with his coaching staff.
Asked how much the three points meant personally, he instead pointed towards the limited preparation time, the tactical adjustments and the importance of finding balance within his squad.
“It wasn’t easy to prepare well for this match in two days. For us, it was easy to change shape because I know this shape well.
“For example, yesterday we worked on the pitch for 25 minutes, 30 minutes, because we have some players out, some players played against Norwich and played today.
“I’m happy because if we work, we have a balance. It’s better for us. It’s easier to get a good result.”
The Italian believes establishing greater consistency and balance is essential if his current squad are to develop and eventually enjoy similar opportunities elsewhere.
“I hope for a positive future. I hope for my players a similar future, but now my players are different. It’s normal, it’s normal, this result. It’s important to have a balance.”
Watford now face a significant test against Middlesbrough on Saturday, with Dionisi hoping Tuesday’s victory can provide the foundation for a more consistent run of Championship results.
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