Adrian Mariappa is confident Watford can buck their trend of dipping in form during the second half of the season and keep their European dream alive.
With Watford currently sitting seventh and the prospect of European football on the horizon, the Hornets defender admitted the squad have spoken about their history of losing form at this time.
“It is something we have spoken about and we are aware of,” said Mariappa. “We don’t want that to happen again this year and I think it is about competition for places. Everyone is really pushing this season.
“In training, everyone is at it and the gaffer [Javier Gracia] demands that we do well every game. He won’t let anyone take their foot off the pedal and I think that translates into the games.”
Mariappa’s belief that Watford will not let their good start go to waste is shared by the rest of the squad, not least captain Troy Deeney.
“We’ve got some serious experience here in the squad, players that have been at big clubs and know what a successful team looks like,” said the striker.
“That’s what gives me a massive belief that the second half of the season can match or better the first. No fading to grey this time for us.”
That commitment and work ethic was certainly evident on Saturday as Watford dug deep to draw 0-0 at home against in-form Burnley.
“It is looking good at the moment, but we are taking it game by game,” added Mariappa. “We are playing well and we just need to carry it on.”
