rewrite this title Birmingham City 2-1 Watford: Paik and Gray on target as hosts close gap on top six – Soccer News

Birmingham City moved within a point of the Championship play-off places after holding on for a 2-1 victory over Watford on Monday.

First-half goals from Paik Seung-Ho and Demarai Gray secured all three points for Chris Davies’ side at St. Andrew’s @ Knighthead Park.

The Blues carried the greater attacking threat during the opening 45 minutes.

Nathan Baxter made a smart save to deny Phil Neumann, but the Watford goalkeeper was powerless on the half-hour mark, when Paik stole possession in the visitors’ half and drilled home.

The hosts doubled their lead two minutes before half-time, with Gray turning home Jay Stansfield’s deep cross at the far post.

But Javi Gracia’s side responded well after the break. Marc Bola tested James Beadle, before Othmane Maamma halved the deficit in the 61st minute.

It was the Moroccan’s first goal for the Hornets, though it proved academic as Birmingham held on for victory.

A HUGE MONDAY NIGHT Wpic.twitter.com/SnHue2veBj

— Birmingham City FC (@BCFC) December 1, 2025

Data Debrief: More home comforts for the Blues

Birmingham registered their first victory in eight league meetings between the sides, and only their second in 13 encounters.

Indeed, they came out marginally ahead on expected goals, generating 1.26 xG to Watford’s 1.03.

The Blues have now claimed 20 points at home this season, the joint-most in the Championship along with leaders Coventry City.

Watford, who stay 15th in the table, missed the chance to move into the top half, suffered their first defeat in six league matches.