Watford Manager Tom Cleverley Defends Winger After Fiery Post-Match Incident

Watford’s 2-1 Boxing Day triumph over Portsmouth at Vicarage Road was overshadowed by controversy involving 21-year-old winger Kwadwo Baah.

The Ghanaian winger, who played a pivotal role in the lead-up to Watford’s match-winning goal, was sent off after the final whistle for his provocative celebration. Following the Hornets’ 16th consecutive unbeaten game at home, Baah approached the away section and performed the “Take the L” dance—made famous by Fortnite—taunting the Portsmouth fans.

The situation escalated quickly, with Portsmouth players confronting Baah on the pitch, while stewards intervened to prevent fans from invading the field. The referee issued Baah a second yellow card, resulting in his dismissal.

Portsmouth manager John Mousinho didn’t hold back, labeling the winger’s behavior “sackable.” The tensions were heightened by an earlier contentious decision that had handed Watford a penalty. Despite replays suggesting the foul occurred outside the box, the referee—after consulting the linesman—awarded Watford the decisive spot-kick.

In the aftermath, Watford manager Tom Cleverley came to Baah’s defense. While acknowledging the celebration was inappropriate, Cleverley stressed the need for discipline and humility, adding that the incident would be handled internally. He expressed confidence that Baah, still young, would learn from the experience.