WATFORD'S second string set a tone for the first team to follow by beating QPR 3-2 at Loftus Road this afternoon.

Despite falling behind to an early goal, the young Hornets roared back to record their first victory in the Combination Cup with goals from Liam Henderson, Theo Robinson and Jordan Parkes.

It was the home side who struck first, midway through the first half when Emmanuel Ledesma converted a penalty awarded for a foul by Dale Bennett on Christian Nanetti, although there was a question mark on whether the challenge took place outside or inside the box.

However, not long afterwards the visitors were level when a fine link up between Lionel Ainsworth and Theo Robinson created an opening for Liam Henderson which the big Geordie finished from close range.

And Watford went in front in spectacular fashion in first-half injury time.Jordan Parkes picked up the ball in the left back area, cut inside and advanced till he was about 30 yards out.He then left fly with a thunderbolt which flew into the top corner of Reece Crowther's goal.

Watford continued to enjoy the lion's share of the game in the second period and it was no surprise when they extended their lead after Henderson set up Theo Robinson for another tap in, making the score 3-1.

The visitors created a string of chances with Ainsworth, Henderson and Robinson often leading the Rangers' defence a merry dance.

Indeed, Watford thought they had made it 4-1 in stoppage time when Cedric Avinel powered home a header but it was chalked out for offside and QPR marched down the other end from the free kick and scored through Antonio German, giving the final result a slightly flattering air for the hosts.

QPR: Crowther, Maguire, Ilesanmi, Smith, Gorkss, Oastler, Ledesma (Sylvan-Vanterpool), Flood, German, Parker, Nanetti

Watford: Loach, Rodgers, Parkes, Bangura, Avinel, Bennett, Ainsworth, Whichelow (Brooks), Henderson, Robinson, Young