Watford 0 Southampton 0: Hornet and Saints still winless after dour stalemate

A Holebas strike prior to the half-hour seemed destined to trouble Maarten Stekelenburg only for Deeney to get in the way, but clear-cut chances were at a premium until Watford created the best opportunity of the opening period five minutes before the break.

While the game opened up late on, there was to be no victor, although Watford could take heart from another competitive showing as Southampton’s sluggish start to the campaign continued.

New signing Alessandro Diamanti came on at half time before Pelle forced Gomes into action while Capoue headed over with the goal gaping on the hour.

Southampton’s Graziano Pelle, left, and Watford’s Valon Behrami battle for the ball during their English Premier League soccer match at Vicarage Road, Watford, England, Sunday, August 23, 2015. Capoue should score when a corner reaches him at the far post, but somehow the ball comes off his shoulder and loops over the open goal!

It was not a classic but the Hornets have now drawn their opening three games since their return to the Premier League and will be happy with the result.

Watford failed to have a shot on target in this match, with all 13 of their efforts being blocked or off target.

Any move for Sadio Mane to Manchester United is in doubt after the forward went off in the first-half of Southampton’s draw against Watford.

Watford and Southampton are now drawing goalless in the Premier League in a half which has seen the visiting Saints have the better of the play. Southampton have a quality side but they will need to put together some performances as they are struggling at the moment. Amid an uncertain defensive shape – Koeman opted for a three-man defence with Cedric and Targett as wing-backs – it was Fonte who held everything together, covering for his defensive partners and spotting danger before anyone else.