COLCHESTER United came out winners in a tight-affair as the totesport.come Combination reserve league kicked-off in Essex.
The host won the fixture 1-0 thanks to a goal from striker Kayode Odejayi on 22 minutes.
Matthew Whichelow went close for the visitors during the first half as his free-kick narrowly went over the bar.
The Golden Boys fielded a team with bags of experience despite containing plenty of youngsters, including summer signings Troy Deeney and defender Tom Aldred.
Ross Jenkins and Michael Bryan were named in midfield while Liam Henderson partnered Deeney in attack.
Despite a promising start to the second period, Jonathan Bond was soon called into action in the Watford goal.
He tipped over a powerful header from Odejayi on 59 minutes.
For all their endeavour the 'Orns were unable to claw their way back into the match as it eventually slipped away from them.
The Hornets are next in action on Wednesday 22 September against Oxford United.
WATFORD: Bond; Thompson, Oshodi, Aldred, Bennett; Bryan, Jenkins, Whichelow, Mingoia; Henderson, Deeney (Isaac 75). Subs: Bonham (gk), Smith, Hoban, Kalu.
BOOKINGS: Thompson.
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