The striker, playing virtually as a wing-back for the entirety of the second-half, bagged two high quality goals in the final 10 minutes to earn Blackpool their first win in five.
It was a thoroughly deserved victory for Michael Appleton’s side as well, as they showed guts, heart and desire to stay in the game during a difficult first-half.
But in the second period they were by far the better side and finally got their rewards late on through the sublime Yates.
Gary Madine had previously given Blackpool an early lead after just 10 minutes with a cute lob, an opener that was cancelled out by Imran Louza’s sublime free-kick.
Here’s how Pool’s players rated:
1. Chris Maxwell - 7/10
No chance with the free-kick, but his distribution from the back was a bit hit and miss. Helped set up counter-attacks though. Photo: CameraSport - Dave Howarth
2. Callum Connolly - 8/10
Set up Madine’s opener with his aggressive header and whipped in some great crosses. Defended well too against a talented winger. Photo: CameraSport - Dave Howarth
3. Marvin Ekpiteta - 7/10
Kept busy by a strong Watford frontline but produced tackles and blocks aplenty to keep the Hornets at bay. Photo: CameraSport - Dave Howarth
4. Jordan Thorniley - 7/10
Defended strongly and used his diagonals to good effect once again. Could have had a goal too if it wasn’t for his header being saved. Photo: CameraSport - Dave Howarth
5. Dom Thompson - 7/10
Played in the crossfield ball that led to Madine’s opening goal. Celebrated winning a tackle like he scored a goal. Photo: CameraSport - Dave Howarth
6. Charlie Patino - 8/10
Seemed to enjoy having the licence to push further forward where he could have more of a say in the game. Photo: CameraSport - Dave Howarth