THE DREAMS of a Premier League return to the Riverside Stadium have been put on hold for a further year, after Middlesbrough's hopes of sneaking in to the play-offs on the final day were dashed.

After Watford striker Chris Iwelumo had flicked the crucial opening goal with 21 minutes left, Boro failed in their attempts to finish the campaign with the victory they craved.

Dutchman Marvin Emnes did fire in his 18th of the season with five minutes remaining, but then Hornets striker Troy Deeney side-footed the winner a few minutes later.

The reality was that, even before Iwelumo's breakthrough, Cardiff had already cemented their place in the fourth and final play-off berth.

Despite Crystal Palace taking an early lead at Selhurst Park, Cardiff responded to score two goals after the restart to ensure they could claim more than the point that would end Middlesbrough's promotion hopes.

And when Iwelumo made the most of Deeney's cross in the 69th minute, the 2, 020 travelling supporters from Teesside were left to reflect what might have been.

Emnes' goal might have offered a glimmer of hope, but Deeney's winner ensured that Middlesbrough did not even avoid defeat on the final day to ease the frustration of the fans, players and coaching staff.

WATFORD (4-4-2): Loach; Doyley, Nosworthy, Taylor, Dickinson; Buaben, Eustace, Hogg (Forsyth 49), Murray; Deeney, Iwelumo (Mariappa 89). Subs: Gilmartin (gk), Whichelow, Garner.

MIDDLESBROUGH (4-1-3-1-1): Steele; Hoyte, Hines, McManus, Bennett; Bailey; Haroun (Main 58), Williams, Robson; Emnes; Jutkiewicz (McDonald 58). Subs: Thomson, Arca, McMahon.