Leeds dominated a first half which ended goalless but made the breakthrough in the 67th minute through Joel Piroe. Fine play from Georginio Rutter released Dan James down the right flank and James then delivered a perfect cross to the far post where Piroe arrived to convert from close range.
The Whites threatened to double their advantage two minutes later as Crysencio Summerville charged into the box after brilliant skill by Rutter but Summerville's cut back was cleared. Yet a Whites second quickly arrived in the 70th minute through Sam Byram who powered home a brilliant header from a James corner for his first Leeds goal since December 2015.
Brilliant skill by substitute Jaidon Anthony then created the winger a chance with four minutes left only for his shot to be saved but Anthony got himself on the scoresheet two minutes later with a home debut goal after brilliant work by the extremely impressive Rutter.
The record signing turned in midfield before sending a perfect through ball for Anthony who raced in on goal before slotting past Hornets keeper Daniel Bachmann.
Graham Smyth, the YEP’s chief football writer, hands out the scores from a fine afternoon at Elland Road.
13. Ian Poveda (sub)
N/A - A few flashes of his dribbling ability from a late cameo. Photo: Nigel French
14. Luke Ayling (sub)
N/A - Got stuck in straight away but couldn't prevent Chakvetadze from getting inside to blast goalwards late on. Photo: George Wood
15. Archie Gray (sub)
N/A - Made himself busy to keep the pressure on Watford. Wanted to get forward and join in attacks. Photo: George Wood
16. Ilia Gruev (sub)
N/A - Had little to do in his few minutes on the pitch but chased around trying to get involved. Photo: LUFC
17. Jeremy Simpson (referee)
5 - Probably got the James penalty shout right but was incredibly lenient to some challenges. Photo: Bruce Rollinson