Andrews: “It Was A Surreal Moment”

Ryan Andrews was delighted to contribute to a positive team performance, as the full-back aided the Hornets on their way to a 2-0 victory over Bristol City on his home debut.

At a sunny Vicarage Road, the 18-year-old retained his place in defence for the clash against the Robins, following his first league start last time out against Coventry City (Monday April 10).

Being substituted in the final stages of the contest, Andrews experienced a standing ovation from the Watford faithful – a moment he won’t forget – as the stadium sang ‘he’s one of our own’.

“It was a surreal moment,” he began. “Growing up, I’ve been here as an Under-9 so coming all the way and playing for the first-team and hearing that, it’s things that you dream of. I did really like it.

“When the whole place is filled, it’s a great experience and for my development going forward it is what I dreamt of as a kid. Obviously, I just want to keep that up.”

Andrews explained that he had been speaking to Head Coach Chris Wilder and Assistant Head Coach Alan Knill during the week, and had prepared himself for a potential appearance at The Vic.

He continued: “After the Coventry game, I had conversations with Chris and Alan, and they just told me that I had a good game against Coventry, but the hard work doesn’t stop there.

“Leading up to this game during training I have been working alongside the same starting line-up, which was a clear indication that I could be starting today.”

Focusing on the encounter, Andrews was thrilled to have played a crucial role in earning three valuable points.

“Coming off the back of the Coventry City match, we knew that it would be important to start well to get the victory, as we did,” Andrews added.

“The clean sheet is what we wanted. Coming in at half-time, we knew against Coventry that we had a slow start and then ended up conceding those two goals, so getting the clean sheet this time was a big positive.

“Against Coventry City I played in the same back four and it was a pleasure playing alongside them, especially when they help you out and they talk to you a lot. Overall, it was a solid performance from the team.”