They’ve been central to the transformation of the atmosphere at Vicarage Road over the past six years. But Watford’s 1881 fan movement, the rhythm section of home games, will not be at the centre of the Rookery End. The Athletic can exclusively reveal that, after difficulties during the opening-day defeat against Brighton, the plan to move the group into the middle of the stand has been postponed.



It’s a setback to the group and the club after a carefully planned attempt to move the singing section into a galvanising position to further enhance the atmosphere at home matches.



Over the summer, the club contacted 500 season ticket holders with seats in the central part of the Rookery End to outline the intention to move the 1881 to a more prominent location in the middle of the stand. Those with seats there had an opportunity to remain and join in or to move to other parts of the stand or ground if they would rather be away from the songs, drums...