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There is something satisfying about watching a football team figure out who they are. Watford's 2–1 win over Southampton was by no means a perfect match for them, but they came out with a sense of identity that has been missing for a very long time. The muddled ideas and constant managerial merry‑go‑round that dominated last season seem to have ended. Alessio Dionisi appears to have effected major changes not just to Watford's play‑style but also to their attitude on the pitch. A Psychological Change Watford last season so often looked flat and defeated, and thus seemed like a team that offered no real threat to their opposition. This game, however, was markedly different. The Hornets came out with a hunger and drive that had so often been missing from last season. A relentless and confident attack led to Iker Bravo's opening goal. His right‑footed shot from the centre of the box only strengthened Watford's drive to win. This hunger was no better represented than in Watford's 19‑year‑old talent Amin Nabizada, who, after a fast break, drove the ball into the bottom left corner from a difficult angle, widening the gap to 2–0. Whilst individual performances highlighted the best of Watford's game today, it was the team's desire to score another goal that no doubt won it for them. Despite Southampton having the majority of the ball, the majority of the touches in the opposition box, and one more shot than Watford, Dionisi seems to have ensured that his team have no desire to capitulate in tough moments and instead, in ruthless fashion, will attempt to go for the win. A Valiant Defence Watford's defensive mentality showed a clear shift too, and it was noticeable in the small, simple things rather than any big, standout moment. Last season, the back line often looked hesitant, almost waiting for something to go wrong. Against Southampton, they were far more assured. Mattie Pollock, Ryan Porteous and the rest of the unit didn't try to force anything; they just stayed organised, stepped out at the right times, and dealt with danger early. Even when Southampton had long spells of possession, Watford didn't fall into that deep, passive shape that hurt them so often. Instead, they held their ground and trusted the structure around them. It was a steadier, more collective defensive display, and that shift in mentality feels like another sign of the direction Watford are starting to move in. Moving Forward The real test now is whether Watford can hold onto this mentality. The focus, the togetherness, and the willingness to stay switched on for long spells all felt like a step forward. They don't need to reinvent anything from here, just keep approaching games with the same clarity and collective attitude. If they do, this performance could be a small but important marker of where they're heading. Dionisi's men look set for a far more consistent season.