In-form Watford strengthened their grip on the second automatic promotion place in the Championship by winning 4-1 at Rotherham, while Swansea and Brentford dropped points on Tuesday. Xisco Munoz's side made it eight victories from nine matches thanks to goals from Francisco Sierralta, Ismaila Sarr, Ken Sema and Dan Gosling. Third-placed Swansea are three points behind Watford after losing 3-0 at Bournemouth. Philip Billing's volley and Joel Latibeaudiere's own goal put the Cherries in control, with Arnaut Danjuma sealing the win late on. Fourth-placed Brentford failed to capitalise on that slip-up as they blew a two-goal lead to draw with Wayne Rooney's Derby. Ivan Toney's penalty and a Sergi Canos strike put the Bees in control midway through the first half, only for Lee Gregory and fellow half-time substitute Louis Sibley to make it 2-2. Playoff hopefuls Cardiff drew 0-0 at home to Stoke, while Middlesbrough moved up to eighth with a 2-0 win against Preston. North End defender Jordan Storey sliced a Yannick Bolasie cross into his own net to open the scoring, with captain Alan Browne sent off before manager Alex Neil also saw red. Marcus Tavernier wrapped up Boro's 2-0 win early in the second half. Luton were also 2-0 winners over Coventry. kca/mw