Watford’s final pre-season fixture ended goalless with Premier League side Southampton at Wealdstone FC’s Grosvenor Vale.

Fans got the chance to see a first glimpse of Rob Edwards’ Golden Boys in person, in a competitive and feisty affair between two attack-minded sides.

Despite their opponent’s higher league status, the Hornets enjoyed plenty of possession in the opening stages, pressing high off the ball to stifle the Saints.

New arrival Rey Manaj was the first to get sight of goal, leaping highest to meet Ken Sema’s corner, but the Albanian was unable to keep his header below Gavin Bazunu’s crossbar.

Emmanuel Dennis also shone in attack, beating Moussa Djenepo for skill on the right flank to allow for a pass to Edo Kayembe. The Congolese midfielder found the target, testing Bazunu with a low effort.

João Pedro, in a particularly dynamic attacking role, often dropped deep to help the midfield, drifting to either flank also to aid attacks, prompting many ‘oohs’ and ‘aahs’ from the Watford supporters in attendance.

The Saints gained a foothold in the game during the second 45, the fresh legs of Ché Adams in attack spurring on Ralph Hasenhüttl’s charges. James Ward-Prowse carved out a chance from little space 10 minutes in, lofting a shot inches wide of Daniel Bachmann’s right post.

After a brief lull in clear-cut chances, Watford came close on three occasions. Substitute Yáser Asprilla cleverly found Dennis, with the Nigerian’s shot deflecting over for a corner.

João Pedro curled a teasing shot goalwards, forcing a dramatic clearance off the goal line. Francisco Sierralta then headed over.

Ken Sema’s clever pass from a free-kick left substitute Vakoun Bayo one-on-one with Bazunu, only for the shot to go agonisingly wide.

Edwards’ side maintained a high work-rate throughout and came very close to claiming victory, in a game which provided ample preparation for the Sky Bet Championship season, kicking off in nine days against Sheffield United at Vicarage Road (Monday August 1, 8pm KO).