Nathan Redmond grabbed a debut goal as Southampton came from behind to snatch a 1-1 draw in the battle of the new bosses.
Watford chief Walter Mazzarri saw his new side take an early lead thanks to a first Hornets goal for Etienne Capoue.
But Redmond ensured Claude Puel came away with a point from his first game in charge of Southampton, while Watford played the final 15 minutes a man down after Ben Watson's dismissal.
The opening day often throws up the odd surprise and the identity of Watford's goalscorer was certainly one of them.
Nathan Redmond scores on debut as Watford hold Southampton
