A late goal from Shaun Batt has proved enough to earn Millwall a vital victory over promotion-chasing Watford at the New Den this evening.

© PA Photos

The visitors are top scorers in the Championship away from home but Troy Deeney failed to break the deadlock early on as his shot was turned wide by David Forde.

Millwall had their first effort on goal through James Henry on 13 minutes, but the midfielder's header went well wide of the far post.

Deeney continued his battle with Forde soon after, but scuffed his effort from close range.

Gianfranco Zola's side looked dangerous down the right wing throughout the first period, with Ikechi Anya showing strong running ability to play in Mark Yeates from 20 yards.

Yeates had time and space from close range but his effort lacked power and was tipped wide by a good save from Forde.

Both sides missed glorious chances to go ahead just before the interval, with Andy Keogh and Matej Vydra guilty of spurning gilt-edged opportunities to open the scoring.

The home side improved vastly after the break but were fortunate to stay level when Deeney had a flicked effort cleared off the line.

Danny Shittu then escaped punishment after appearing to handle in the area but the Lions rallied and made the breakthrough just seven minutes from time.

Substitute Batt was on hand to tap home unmarked from close range and condemn Watford to a crushing defeat in their search for automatic promotion to the Premier League.