Javi Gracia praised his players for their battling efforts after they held on to share the points against Ipswich at Portman Road.

"We knew Ipswich were very strong," the Watford boss told BBC Three Counties Radio. "Like us, they're one of the teams with more points playing at home and away from home we've had difficulties this season.

"I'm happy with the attitude of my players and the spirit they showed, I think it's good for us to get this reward. I'm happy with job my defenders and the keeper did.

"We've competed, the other team was really tough and it was a demanding game. We had to defend well and be more compact at the end of the game, when they had more clear chances."

Hornets skipper Imran Louza was on target for the fourth consecutive game, turning in Marc Bola's cross before Jaden Philogene levelled for the home side.

Gracia added: "It was similar to the goal he scored in the last game, from the other side – another good cross and Imran arriving from the second line."