WATFORD'S young guns lost out on penalties today (Thursday) in dramatic fashion at the Milk Cup in Northern Ireland.

The Golden Boys were up against County Tyrone in the Junior (under 15) play-offs and after the score was even at 1-1 at full time, the opposition claimed victory with a 5-4 win in Coleraine.

Jamie Calvin put Watford ahead after an excellent start to the match against good opposition in the shape of County Tyrone.

The defeat was hard to take for the 'Orns as a mistake by the officials had a large hand in the team conceding their goal in normal time.

The officials' mishap took place when bizarrely the boys from Hertfordshire were in the middle of a substitution.

A Watford player had left the field but the officials refused for his replacement to take his place, leaving the Hornets temporarily with 10 men.

From the resulting set-piece Tyrone grabbed an equaliser and to rub salt into Watford's wound, the goalscorer was due to be marked by the stranded Hornet on the touchline.

The game went on to penalties as the 'Orns lost out 5-4.

Speaking after the game, Academy Assistant Manager 12-16, said: "The boys had taken the information we'd given them after our de-brief the evening before and we're very pleased with that.

Watford's Nick Cox

"Penalties were another new situation for the team as we just don't get that experience in our usual games back at home.

"There's no substitute for a scenario like that and although we're obviously disappointed to have lost, the boys have tasted that pressured situation in front of a crowd."

Despite defeat there was a positive for the squad after the fourth day of competitive football.

In previous years all squads have suffered from injury and fatigue, but for the first ever year Cox has had a fully fit squad available for selection.

That is down to the education they've been receiving at The Harefield Academy as well as the fact they are used to the demands of training every day.

Cox also credits the fitness and medical staff for the way they have looked after the youngsters, coupled with the young Hornets being well drilled about the importance of hydration and eating properly during the week.

Watford play their final game tomorrow (Friday) against Hapoel Beer Sheba in Castlerock. Kick-off is at 11.00am.

We'll bring you the news from the final day in Northern Ireland.