Watford took a big step towards securing a promotion place in the Championship by thrashing relegation-threatened Rotherham United 4-1 at the New York Stadium last night.

The gulf in class was apparent from an early stage, with defender Francisco Sierralta heading home after just nine minutes.

Ismaila Sarr and Ken Sema both netted in the first half to give the Hornets a 3-0 lead at the break, but the Millers didn't sit back and Freddie Ladapo got them a goal back on 68 minutes.

That three-goal lead for Watford though was restored just a minute later as Dan Gosling netted his first goal for the club to seal the victory.

In an added boost for the Hornets, promotion rivals Swansea and Brentford both dropped points, with the Welsh side suffering a heavy defeat against Bournemouth and the Bees lost a two-goal lead against Derby to draw 2-2.

There's a chance for Xisco Munoz's outfit to pick up another six points in the next few games with Rotherham's fellow strugglers Birmingham City and Sheffield Wednesday to play, and confidence seems to be sky-high in the dressing room.

And Watford players took to social media last night to celebrate their convincing win over road, with William Troost-Ekong, goalscorer Sema and new signing Carlos Sanchez all having their say.

The Verdict

You'd have to think after last night's success that Watford are in prime position to take that second spot behind Norwich.

It would represent promotion for both at the first time of asking, and with the squads they have at their disposal it's to be expected.

The season isn't done yet though - Watford still have the likes of Reading to play coming up, and in their last four games the Hornets have to face Norwich, Brentford AND Swansea - you can't ask for a much tougher end to the season than that.