At half time NHS staff who worked at Watford General Hospital during the pandemic did a lap of honour around the pitch and were applauded by both sets of supporters.

WFC Net Jon Marks goal commentary: 1 2 3

BBC Sport: Watford marked their Premier League return with a thrilling opening-day victory over Aston Villa at Vicarage Road.

Sky Sports: After bouncing straight back up to the Premier League, Watford were full of life in the first half, taking the lead through debutant Emmanuel Dennis’ low effort (10), before Ismaila Sarr’s deflected shot off Tyrone Mings put them 2-0 up before the break (42).

BHappy: By half time, the sun is properly out.  Which is how opening day should be, of course.  There are 200 hospital staff circuiting the pitch to a prolonged standing ovation from all four sides of the ground.  “Song for Guy” plays as the faces of those lost over the pandemic by both club and hospital appear on the screen.  There is a deluge of specks in eyes, odd for a still afternoon.

From the Rookery End: First impressions last and what an impression the debutants for Watford made against Aston Villa. Jason, Mike and Jon are back for a 12th season of podcasting about Watford and they gathered on Sunday to discuss the incredible win, the stand out goals and how a bunch of Watford fans beliefs can change in a matter of…. minutes.