Watford host Stoke City at Vicarage Road in the final match of Championship Matchday 22. Both teams have been inconsistent but have shown flashes of quality this season.
The state of play
Watford sit 14th in the Championship with 29 points from 21 matches, just five points off the play-off places. Javi Gracia has done a reasonable job since returning to the helm at Vicarage Road, though fans remain unconvinced by the team's inconsistency.
The Hornets' home form has been impressive, with six wins and just one defeat at Vicarage Road. They are unbeaten in eight home games and will be looking to extend that run against the Potters. A 2-2 draw at Wrexham last time out saw them concede a last-minute equaliser, which will sting.
Stoke City are 7th with 33 points, firmly in the play-off picture. Mark Robins' side have been one of the surprises of the season, though their away form has been less convincing than their performances at the bet365 Stadium.
A 2-1 win over Swansea last weekend ended a three-game losing streak and boosted morale heading into this fixture. However, Stoke have conceded six goals in their last three away matches and will need to be more solid defensively.
Key battle
Watford's attacking intent paired with defensive looseness against Stoke's inconsistent away form makes this an intriguing contest. Both teams are capable of scoring, but neither has been convincing at the back.
Head-to-head
Recent meetings have produced draws, with the last three encounters between these teams all ending level. Neither side has found a way to dominate this fixture in recent years.
Prediction
Watford's home advantage should give them the edge, but Stoke have enough quality to stay in the game. Another draw would not be surprising, but the hosts may just edge it.
Prediction: Watford 2-1 Stoke
