Kiwomya: Ref spoiled game

Watford boss Gianfranco Zola refused to panic despite seeing his side lose ground on second-placed Hull after they drew 0-0 with Cardiff.

The Hornets' draw with the Championship leaders combined with Hull's 1-0 victory over Middlesbrough leaves the Italian's side three points behind the Tigers.

But Zola was happy with the result in a game that saw former Watford manager Malky Mackay bring his current team to Vicarage Road.

"I don't consider it two points dropped. It is a good point against the top of the league team," said Zola.

"I believe we tried everything we could to win the game. The reason why we didn't win is because they are a tough team to beat and it's no coincidence they are in the position they are.

"I'm not complaining, we tried everything we could and probably in the second half we created the opportunities to win the game.

"I believe with one, their goalkeeper was outstanding and another one maybe we were a little bit unlucky."

Watford have now failed to win in their last three home matches but Zola retains faith in his side.

"I don't have concerns. Of course we want to win all the games but I am delighted we are still in a position to play games like this," added Zola.

"We have no pressure. The pressure is on others.

"We are doing everything we can to be in the position where we are and to improve it so we don't have any pressure.

"If the others don't win the game then we'll see but we have to make sure we keep playing with the same enthusiasm and the same positivity we've had so far.

"We're going to try and win all the games and see what the others can do."

Jeff Hughes headed County in front inside the opening two minutes, but Kiwomya's side were dealt a major blow on the stroke of half-time when Andre Boucad was sent off after picking up a second booking for a trip on Harry Arter.

Bournemouth striker Brett Pitman scored for the sixth game in a row while in-form Matt Ritchie cored twice as the Cherries maintained their grip on second place.

County have now won only one of their last seven games, dashing any lingering hopes of a late charge for the play-offs.

Kiwomya said: "I'm very disappointed with the referee. I thought he spoiled the game.

"It could have been a very good game between two attacking teams, but he's giving out yellow cards. Their second goal followed a handling offence.

"We started off well. The goals we conceded could have been avoided.

"Playing with 10 men, it was a mental battle. It was a backs-to-the-wall job, but we played well and created chances. But you have to take them.

"If your not solid and determined, you could go down by five or six, but the lads stuck to it and were magnificent.

"I wanted to try and win the game, but then they scored their third goal."