Tottenham - 'One Point was all that was Needed'

Spurs finished season 2011-12 in fourth place, again equalling their highest finish in the Premier League era.  Once again, at the death they failed  to get the better of their closest neighbours and greatest rivals, Arsenal.  Having had a strong advantage in late February, Spurs had their destiny in their own hands but by the end it was all about one point.

It Was in Spurs' Own Hands
Some will be dismissive and say that Spurs' current situation is all down to themselves, that in the early months of the year, with a strong hold on third there is no way that they should now be waiting anxiously on the outcome of next weekend's Champions League Final to know if they will be competing in next season's Champions League or Europa League.  That is true but every team has a poor spell at some time in the season but unfortunately Spurs was a rather extended run which coincided with the departure of Fabio Capello as England manager and the lengthy silence from the Football Association with the associated speculation that Harry Redknapp was a cert to take over ahead of Euro 2012.  Only after the appointment of Roy Hodgson did the Spurs team rediscover some of their form and confidence to produce the style of football that had so pleased the football public earlier in the season.  Unfortunately, this rekindling of their form came too late to reclaim third place which they had held from late November through to the end of March.

Missed Opportunities
Even in the final weeks of the season Spurs managed to spurn opportunities to redeem themselves and take advantage of others misfortune.  Twice in the last month of the season, Arsenal provided them with the chance to make up lost ground but Spurs were unable to make the most of these gifts - an unexpected home defeat for Arsenal against Wigan Athletic but Spurs lost to QPR the next weekend while a home draw with Norwich meant that a Tottenham win at Aston Villa would restore Spurs to third with a single point advantage going in to the final day's matches but Spurs could only manage to take a point from the relegation fearing team.  

Adebayor's Disallowed Goals
If only one of those goals which were incorrectly disallowed for off-side against Emmanuel Adebayor had been given as they should have, Spurs would have had the point they required to be ahead of Arsenal at the end of the season.  Against Stoke City, Chelsea and Wolverhampton Wanderers, three games in a five week period that saw Adebayor denied a perfectly good goal as Spurs were on the wrong end of mistakes by the officials.  "These things even themselves out over the course of a season" say some, but there's no evidence that it happened for Tottenham this year.

Caution v Ambition
Over a season, depending on circumstances, a team needs to take caution in its approach while at times it has to show an ambitious streak to take a gamble in the hope of gaining some reward.  Looking at this aspect of Spurs play in two games when they got it wrong on both occasions.  At the end of January Spurs went into added time against eventual Champions, Manchester City, level at two goals each.  Spurs were in the ascendancy at this point and Benoit Assou-Ekotto had the option of cautiously allowing the ball to go out for a Spurs throw or playing it forward in an attempt to get a winning goal.  He took the adventurous option but City collected the ball and started the move which led to a penalty award and a winning goal.  Spurs lost out on a point and the extra two points helped City to their first title in forty four years.


In the penultimate match of the season Spurs were down to ten men against an Aston Villa team lacking any ambition as they tried to hold on to a point to rescue them from the outside chance of relegation.  Spurs had just equalised but Harry Redknapp, on hearing that Newcastle United had lost their match, appeared to take the cautious approach and decide on safety first rather than make any positive substitutions in order to try for the win.  In the final minute he brought on Scott Parker for Rafael Van der Vaart, a defensive move, rather than try to seek out the win, as he settled for the point.  At the end of the season, the point gained made no difference but a win would have given Tottenham third place in the final reckonings.  A defeat at Villa would also have seen Spurs finish fourth, with Newcastle unable to take any points from their final match. 

A Winning Mentality
When Spurs were good they were very good and often won with ease, although without the instinct to go on and score the additional goals that were frequently there for the taking.  On the other hand, when Spurs were going through their bad spell they never looked capable of rescuing the situation and there was an inevitability about the result.  Spurs only gained 6 points during the season from a losing position while Arsenal were the masters of the comeback, winning an incredible 24 points from losing positions, including their remarkable turnaround against Spurs at The Emirates and another three points against West Bromwich Albion in the vital final game of the season.  They managed late winners in three matches against Sunderland, Liverpool and Newcastle in February and March at the beginning of their revival in fortune.


It has been a memorable season for Tottenham and as Harry Redknapp says most people would have accepted this position at the beginning of the season and especially after the first two defeats to the Manchester clubs.  Looking at the season as a whole, however, it would seem to have been one of missed opportunities.  Having worked their way into such a strong position in mid-January that after defeating Everton they were level with United and three points behind City, they were being considered as title contenders.  That, however, was as good as it got.  In a season when United, Chelsea, Arsenal and Liverpool, the traditional 'big four', were well below their usual standards, there was a golden opportunity for Spurs to have achieved much more, to have set down a marker that they could compete with the very best and so avoid the unsatisfactory situation of having to await the outcome of the Champions League Final to know their fate for next season.  Unfortunately, this ending to the season causes an inevitable delay on forward planning for next season and allows time for uncertainty about progress, retaining players and possible new signings to develop. 


'If only' scenarios could be played over endlessly but it's time to 'get over it' and 'move on' - next season's only twelve weeks away.
   

Tottenham 2 Fulham 0

Spurs successfully achieved a comfortable win over London rivals, Fulham but in the bigger race for the Champions League, lost out to near neighbours, Arsenal, who took the three points they required at West Brom to maintain the status quo in the Premier League table.  Spurs must now wait for next Saturday's Champions League Final result before knowing if they have secured a place in the play-offs in August.

Tottenham Hotspur 2  Fulham 0

Scorers: Adebayor, Defoe

 Team: Friedel; Walker (Nelsen), Gallas, Kaboul (Smith), Bale; Lennon, Livermore, Sandro, Modric; Van der Vaart (Defoe); Adebayor  Subs: (unused) Cudicini, Giovani, Kane, Saha

On the day, Spurs did all that they could - they won their final home game of the season and waited for the other results.  Newcastle United lost at Everton, ending their challenge for the Champions League and for a period before and after half-time Spurs were in prime position but the Arsenal equaliser at the Hawthorns early in the second half, their third goal from goalkeeping mistakes, ended Spurs' dream of finishing third and being the top team in London.

Gareth Bale moved to left back to replace the suspended Danny Rose who was sent off at Aston Villa last weekend.  Jake Livermore joined Sandro in central midfield with Luka Modric moving further left.  Two young players, Adam Smith and Harry Kane, were among the substitutes.  Smith came on for the last fifteen minutes in place of the injured Younes Kaboul and Kane has returned from a successful loan period with Millwall where he won the Young Player of the Year award.  The Fulham team under Martin Jol contained two former Spurs players - full back, Stephen Kelly and midfielder, Danny Murphy.

Spurs had the perfect start with a goal after 1 minute 37 seconds.  Emmanuel Adebayor received the ball from Rafael Van der Vaart and placed it into the Fulham net.  

[Advantage Spurs for the Champions League]

After six minutes a run by Aaron Lennon at pace had Fulham back pedalling but he ran into trouble and lost the ball.  About the same time Arsenal took the lead against West Bromwich Albion.  

[Advantage Arsenal]

 Spurs continued to dominate with Kaboul playing wider on the left of central defence to provide greater freedom for Gareth Bale from left back.  On ten minutes a shot by Modric was deflected into space on the left of the penalty area and it became a race between Bale and Schwarzer for the ball. 

Bale got in a shot but the goalkeeper had closed him down and blocked the shot for a corner.  From the dangerous Van der Vaart corner a Kaboul header was cleared by the goalkeeper for another corner.

West Brom drew level against Arsenal.

[Advantage Tottenham]

Livermore shot over after thirteen minutes after a series of one two passes between himself and Lennon.   Then after another corner the ball was played back into Adebayor but he was unable to make proper contact with the ball.  News reached White Hart Lane that West Brom had taken the lead.

[Advantage Tottenham]

Spurs were very much in control with Fulham offering little threat and when Bale put in a dangerous cross Schwarzer had to come and claim it after twenty minutes.  Fulham had a short period of possession but when Bale dispossessed Kelly, he had to be quick to get back and retrieve a dangerous situation for the visitors.

Adebayor was next to threaten the visitors with a powerful run from central midfield but he was blocked and Van der Vaart's free-kick struck the wall.  Adebayor won a corner which just cleared Bale's head.  Arsenal drew level at The Hawthorns.

[Advantage Tottenham]

For a period before half-time Fulham showed more threat and Walker was tested in his defensive duties on the right.  A good run by Lennon, enabled him to get behind the defence and he pulled the ball back to Adebayor who put it across to Van der Vaart but his shot went just past the post.  With ten minutes to go to half-time Spurs had 62% of possession but they were given a wake up call when Riise collected the ball in his own half and ran towards goal with a powerful shot which Friedel saved well.  A minute later a shot by Dembele was partially saved by Friedel but William Gallas got back to clear for a throw in.  From the long throw Friedel made a good punched clearance.  Apart from this short period of pressure, Fulham offered little threat and Spurs finished the half the stronger with shots from Walker and Bale going over. 

The second half started with a run by Lennon which ended with a foul by Murphy.  Modric's free-kick was headed out for a corner.  Ryan Nelsen replaced Walker who had been injured at the end of the first half.  Gallas reluctantly moved to right back to accommodate Nelsen but his movement released Lennon on the right and Sandro headed his cross over after fifty two minutes.  A minute later Adebayor appeared to have got through on goal to force a save but he was flagged offside.

Another minute on and Arsenal regained the lead against West Bromwich Albion.

[Advantage Arsenal]

For a time the game seemed to go rather flat as if everyone at White Hart Lane was aware of what had happened at The Hawthorns.  Just before the hour Dembele shot against a post and then Spurs introduced Jermain Defoe in place of Van der Vaart.  Two minutes was all Defoe needed to score - he set Lennon off on the right and when the winger's shot deflected to him, he scored the second. 

 Spurs were in control and they started to play with a freedom and confidence that has been missing for much of the past three months.  A run by Bale ended with Defoe shooting over.  With fifteen minutes left Adam Smith made his debut and apart from a couple of late saves by Friedel the match ended with Spurs taking the three points to maintain Fulham's poor record at White Hart Lane.

No change in the Midlands meant that Spurs finished fourth and must await the outcome on the Champions League Final and hope that Bayern Munich are successful.

At the end of what was a comfortable, routine win for Spurs, the overwhelming feeling was of disappointment at the end of an extraordinary season, that Spurs return to form had come just a little to late to secure the third place finish and automatic qualification for the Group stages, that had seemed guaranteed back in January and February.  One point and one goal was all that had been required.

Spurs now face an uncertain period:

•  Will they make the Champions League?
• Will they get through the play-offs in August, if they are in the competition?
• What bearing will this situation have on retaining players and making new signings?

Tottenham's planning for the new season will now be full of 'ifs and buts' but it has been a fantastic season for the club, the best that many supporters have ever experienced with Tottenham, at one point, being considered as title challengers  - a new experience for all of us.

A great season, playing the best football in the League and many memories to keep us going through the summer.  While we may feel down at the moment, we'll all be back in August - you know you will. 

   

Aston Villa 1 Tottenham 1

Always expect the unexpected with Spurs.  Needing a win at Villa Park they managed to come back from a goal down to equalise with only ten men but with Villa content with a point and so lacking in ambition, Spurs should have gone on to win and move above Arsenal in the race for third.  Now it's all down to next week and Spurs getting a better result than their near neighbours and Newcastle.

Aston Villa 1  Tottenham 1

Scorers: Clark                          Adebayor (pen)  

Team: Friedel; Walker, Gallas, Kaboul, Rose; Lennon, Sandro, Modric, Bale; Van der Vaart (Parker); Adebayor  Subs: (unused) Cudicini, Nelsen, Livermore, Defoe, Giovani, Saha

Spurs started with the same team for the third match in a row and were the more confident side in the opening period.  Scott Parker returned from injury to take King's place among the substitutes.  Spurs knew that a win would take them above Arsenal into third place with the final placings in their own hands next week against Fulham.

An early Villa corner came when Danny Rose got a block on a shot by N'Zogbia but Spurs were comfortable while the home team exerted some early pressure.  Then with Spurs moving forward quickly in attack Emmanuel Adebayor had a good turn and shot which went wide.  Kyle Walker was unusually careless giving the ball away on three occasions and from the final one Younes Kaboul had to get back to put in a good tackle in the penalty box on Heskey.

Spurs built up the pressure on the Villa defence but they defended as if their lives depended on it with crucial blocks, tackles and clearing headers.  Following a period of pressure Walker shot over and then again Dunne put in a tackle as Gareth Bale went to cross.  On seventeen minutes Rafael Van der Vaart had a shot blocked after a good move involving Bale, Luka Modric and Adebayor set him up. 

Villa won a corner after a free-kick but Brad Friedel made a good punched clearance under pressure.  Spurs broke at speed but Vila again blocked Modric's shot and when Bale's shot was blocked Walker shot over.  A good move broke down when Adebayor was caught offside as Bale and Van der Vaart tried to play him in.  On thirty minutes a run and cross by Aaron Lennon to the back post was headed past by Bale. 

Spurs were carrying the greatest threat but Villa showed great spirit and a determined defensive display as wave after wave of Spurs attacks came at them.  Modric was blocked as he tried to get forward and then Van der Vaart shot wide from the right.

A minute later, on thirty four minutes, Clark tried a speculative strike from twenty five yards, it deflected off William Gallas' head and looped past a wrong-footed Friedel to leave Spurs stunned.  It was to be one of only two attempts on target by Villa in the whole match, Spurs had ten.

Spurs responded with a shot by Bale from Walker's cross which was well saved by Given.  A corner and header by Gallas caused problems for Villa but they got the ball away and then from a well worked short corner Modric played the ball to Kaboul who set up Van der Vaart but his shot went just past the post.  In the final minutes of the first half Villa put Spurs under some pressure but Sandro put in a strong tackle to clear the danger.  At the end of the half the goal attempts were 11 - 3 in Tottenham's favour.

With forty five minutes to save their season, Spurs started the second half looking for a goal and Bale almost got the ball through to Adebayor.  Villa defended with nine men back and following good possession Danny Rose's cross was cleared for a corner.  Then, out on the left touch line, Rose challenged two Villa players for the ball and won the ball but caught Hutton on the shin and the referee showed him a red card with forty one minutes still to play.  For the second successive season, Spurs were to finish the game at Villa Park with ten men, Jermain Defoe having been sent off last year.

After a lengthy break, when the game resumed Spurs were rather disorganised at the back and took a few minutes to settle but then from a quick free-kick Adebayor got away through the centre but his weak shot was saved when Lennon was free on the right.  Spurs then started to exert pressure on the home side and just as it looked as if Harry Redknapp was going to introduce Defoe, they got the goal they deserved from a penalty after an hour.  From a corner, Sandro collected the ball and as he ran across the area, Dunne brought him down.  Adebayor sent Given the wrong way and Spurs had half an hour to score the second goal they needed for third place in the Premier League.  The decision to play Defoe was changed and the only substitution made was replacing Van der Vaart with Parker as the game was about to enter added time.

For much of the final thirty minutes it was Spurs who pressed forward and Villa who looked as if they had ten men, the home side restricted to looking to hit Spurs on the break.  From one such situation, Friedel had to come out quickly to clear but otherwise he was untroubled. 

For all their possession Spurs didn't look like scoring, especially with Bale at left back and in the end they ran out of ideas against a packed home defence and players who were totally committed.  Spurs had 21 attempts on goal to Villa's four.

The sending off of Rose, fired up the Tottenham players - the ten men gave everything but they couldn't find that extra goal and so remain a point behind Arsenal and hand the initiative for third place back to them while also keeping Newcastle United who lost to Manchester City interested in the fight for Champions League football next season.

Having got back into the game with a goal so quickly after the red card, Spurs should have been able to go on and win against a Villa team with such limited ambition.  Once again when Spurs have an opportunity to take advantage of another team's (Arsenal's) slip-up, they fail to deliver - of such things Spurs fans have to become used to.  After a glimmer of hope following wins over Blackburn and Bolton in the previous two matches, disappointment that once again we have spurned a great opening, the results of which could define the club's future for year's to come.

Bolton Wanderers 1 Tottenham 4

Spurs' win over Bolton gave them their first away win of  2012, their first league success at the Reebok Stadium and two consecutive Premier League wins for the first time since January.  They retain fourth place ahead of Newcastle United on goal difference and are only one point behind Arsenal who are third with two games remaining.

Bolton Wanderers 1 Tottenham Hotspur 4

Scorers: Reo-Coker    Modric, Van der Vaart, Adebayor (2)

Team: Friedel; Walker, Gallas (Nelsen), Kaboul, Rose; Lennon (Saha), Sandro (Livermore), Modric, Bale; Van der Vaart; Adebayor  Subs: (unused) Cudicini, King, Giovani, Defoe 

The England manager's position having been settled after three months during which Tottenham's form slumped alarmingly, Spurs returned to better times with a hard-working display that showed some of their old confidence which has been so lacking for too long.  Having waited for a Tottenham player to step up and score a 'screamer' of a goal we end up with two in two games.  As if to show Kyle Walker that he wasn't the only one capable of a super strike, Luka Modric followed suit with a 'wonder' opening goal in the first half.  Receiving the ball direct from a corner by Rafael Van der Vaart, Modric controlled the ball and fired an unstoppable shot from twenty five yards.  After a Bolton revival and early second half strike Spurs rallied with three goals in nine minutes to secure the much needed win and the vital three points in their quest for next season's Champions League place.

The Tottenham team was unchanged from their easy victory over Blackburn Rovers on Sunday.  Brad Friedel became the oldest player ever to play for Spurs in the League moving ahead of Jimmy Cantrell, a centre forward who played for them before and after the 1st World War.  Scott Parker was still absent through injury while Ledley King was again on the bench along with Jermain Defoe.

Both teams were in great need of the points but for different reasons - Bolton to lift them out of the bottom three while Spurs are aiming to get into the top three by the end of the season.  Spurs had an early corner at which Bolton deployed the Stoke City defensive tactics with Wheater dragging Younes Kaboul all over the penalty area.  Spurs were looking to the pace of Aaron Lennon to cause Bolton problems as both teams started brightly and looked to get forward quickly.  Spurs had an early scare when Danny Rose missed a tackle but recovered to clear the danger.  

Bolton worked hard to keep Spurs in their own half but after eleven minutes Gareth Bale had a shot blocked by the goalkeeper who again blocked Van der Vaart's follow up shot.  Almost immediately Emmanuel Adebayor was put through by Van der Vaart but he was unable to control the ball.  After fifteen minutes Friedel collected the ball under pressure from a Bolton free-kick but it was Spurs who had had 55% possession in the opening period.  Spurs continued to show positive intentions with good interplay between Lennon and Adebayor resulting in Lennon's shot going out for a corner.

Spurs were displaying the greater threat in attack and midway through the half a good run by Bale ended with a super cross but with three players up in support, no-one was able to reach it.  Bolton were fully committed and covered back quickly when they lost the ball making it difficult for Spurs to make forward progress even with 60% of possession in the opening twenty five minutes.

Bale was again the source of danger with a cross blocked and then Van der Vaart fired wide from a free-kick.  After a period of home pressure Friedel made a good save from Ngog who had the chance when a long cross from the left was played back to him and he turned quickly but Friedel had come out quickly and got a block on the shot.  Spurs then moved forward and when Adebayor's shot was blocked, Sandro who worked hard all evening, followed up and put Bolton under pressure with the ball being cleared for a corner.  Spurs had some good fortune in that the ball had struck Sandro on the hand as he went for it but perhaps it was pay back time in Spurs' favour this time as Spurs were to score from the corner which was awarded.

What a great strike it was from Modric after thirty six minutes who had positioned himself well outside the area to receive from Van der Vaart.  It was Spurs first away goal in four matches since Adebayor's penalty put them two up at the Emirates.  Spurs maintained their ascendancy with the corner count showing their five to none from Bolton with five minutes of the half remaining.  In those final minutes, however, Bolton felt they could have had a penalty for handball against William Gallas or holding by Kaboul.  An Eagles shot went wide and in the last minute of added time they squandered a glorious chance to draw level when the Spurs defence got into disarray from a free-kick and Boyata fired over an open goal.

The second half started with early Bolton pressure but Spurs still threatened when a pass from Van der Vaart to put Adebayor clear was cut out by a defender.  After six minutes the Bolton pressure paid off as Spurs defended poorly from a basic throw in as a flick on and back heel put Rio-Coker in to level the scores.  Bolton were on top for the first time in the match and the crowd who had given Fabrice Muamba a great reception when he appeared on the pitch before the match came to life to back their team.  Spurs frequently gave the ball away in their haste to clear and were hemmed in their own half.  After fifty five minutes Bolton won their first corner and with three quick corners the home team kept up the pressure and a shot from Eagles went just over the bar.

Spurs then turned the match in their favour with two goals in two minutes on the hour.  First a quick counter attack by Bale on the left and he pulled the ball back for Van der Vaart to score with a shot across the goalkeeper.  Two minutes later, Modric released Lennon and he selflessly put the ball across fro Adebayor to get the third.  The home side and their supporters were in shock but in response Ngog had a shot easily saved by Friedel and poor defending from another throw in almost caused Spurs a problem.

After 69 minutes good inter-passing by Modric and Bale enabled Adebayor to take the ball around the goalkeeper and score his second and Spurs' fourth.

Bolton tried to respond through Petrov who for the first time got away from Kyle Walker but Friedel blocked his powerful shot and Sandro got back to clear any further danger.  Adebayor was now causing more problems for Bolton as he tried to play in Lennon but the home side crowded him out.  He then blasted over following a break by Bale as he looked for his hat-trick.  In the final minutes Spurs almost added to Bolton's misery as Bale had two shots blocked for a corner and in the final action Walker's shot was also deflected off a defender and the goalkeeper for a corner.

Spurs won at a ground where they always find it difficult and managed to prevent the Bolton captain, Kevin Davies, from getting his customary goal or goals against them.  It was a vital win as Newcastle beat Chelsea at Stamford Bridge to keep apace with Spurs for fourth but both clubs are now only a point behind Arsenal whose goal difference advantage over Spurs has been reduced to one goal.

Spurs' performance was vastly improved from previous away games, they showed much more purpose and forward intent, they played with more confidence than they have for quite some time and showed a greater endeavour and fight against a team renowned for its combative qualities.  Now it's on to Villa Park on Sunday afternoon in the penultimate stage of the race for third, fourth or fifth.

COYS!!

Redknapp in Row at Tottenham

The internet and  Twitter has come to life with rumours that there has been a major fall-out between Harry Redknapp and a number of players which has resulted in at least two of them being omitted from the team which lost to Queen's Park Rangers at Loftus Road on Saturday.

Training Ground Bust-up at Spurs

Rumours have surfaced that Harry Redknapp and a number of players had a training ground fall-out last week.  It is reported that the manager was critical of striker, Emmanuel Adebayor, who got angry at this and as a result the manager has stated that Adebayor will not play again while he is at the club.  It is suggested that three other players were also involved, Younes Kaboul, Aaron Lennon and and PFA 'Young Player of the Year', Kyle Walker.

This may explain the absence of Adebayor and Kaboul from Saturday's squad and Redknapp's reluctance to give details of  who was injured at his pre-match press conference at the end of last week.  While it was assumed that Kaboul was injured, someone at Tottenham is reported to have said that Kaboul was not injured.

Since these rumours have surfaced, sources have come forward to play them down stating that there is no truth in them while others claim that while there may have been an issue that it was not as serious as is being suggested and that it is hoped that Adebayor will be fit to play against Blackburn Rovers next weekend.

Another suggestion is that the players have grown tired of the training ground routines that they follow each day, with the 'old guard' coaching staff of Redknapp, Kevin Bond, Joe Jordan and Clive Allen failing to introduce anything new and failing to be aware of any modern thinking in training methods.

All of this adds to the uncertainty at the club which has not been helped by the speculation that Harry Redknapp is England manager-elect come the end of the season.  Since Harry Redknapp was cleared in his court case at the end of February and the subsequent departure of Fabio Capello, it has been taken as a given that Redknapp would be the new manager.  Since then Spurs results have taken a dramatic downward turn.

There has always been and always will be fall-outs at football clubs during training, such is the competitive nature of the players and Manchester City have shown that this season.  Looking at the Spurs situation from both sides, however, the rumours could well explain the performance of the team on Saturday and the demeanour of the individual players.

A group of players who were very united and who showed great commitment in the early part of the season in fighting performances which won points at Fulham and West Bromwich Albion has now slipped to a new low with only one win in nine Premier League games.  

The defeat at Loftus Road was uncharacteristic for the demeanour of the players with many showing annoyance with each other.  Brad Friedel who had brought a composure to what had been often been a frantic Tottenham defence with Heurelho Gomnes in goal, was uncertain on Saturday with his distribution which unnerved the defence.  The question, however, has to be asked if the defenders were taking up positions to allow him to play it out to them as he would have done previously.  He was also absolutely livid that the players in the defensive wall didn't jump at the free-kick which gifted QPR their goal.  Later in the first half there was an occasion when William Gallas and Benoit Assou-Ekotto had a shouting match during play - something that wouldn't have happened earlier in the season.

On the other hand, however, it is often when a club is going through a bad spell that rumours of disagreements and strife within a club appear.

Whatever the truth and we, the supporters, will probably never know, this latest episode just adds to the rich tapestry of life that is Tottenham Hotspur as they continue on their roller coaster of a season.  The only question that remains is will the downward spiral take a dramatic final upward shot towards the stars and a Champions League place.

Tottenham 3 Swansea City 1

Spurs moved level on points with Arsenal following their win over Swansea.  In an entertaining game, Swansea drew level in the second half but Spurs regained control with two headed goals from Emmanuel Adebayor.

Tottenham Hotspur 3  Swansea City 1

                       Scorers: Van der Vaart, Adebayor (2)               Sigurdsson

Team: Friedel; Walker, Kaboul, Gallas, Assou-Ekotto (Rose); Van der Vaart (Livermore), Parker, Sandro (Lennon), Modric, Bale; Adebayor  Subs: (unused) Cudicini, Saha, Defoe, Nelsen 

Spurs were comfortable winners over a Swansea side who have been impressive in recent away matches, winning four times in the League since January.  Both sides looked to play passing football but Spurs worked hard and often the visitors gave the ball away in dangerous positions, putting themselves under additional pressure.  Gareth Bale was a constant problem to Swansea and especially in the second half after they had equalised.  It was from a period of sustained pressure led by Bale that Spurs went ahead and added a third.

Harry Redknapp sent out the same team which had been so impressive in their draw with Chelsea at Stamford Bridge last weekend.  Brad Friedel returned, as did Younes Kaboul and William Gallas in central defence while Sandro replaced Jake Livermore who had played in midweek against Bolton in the FA Cup.  Aaron Lennon returned to the bench after a period out through injury.   

Swansea started brightly with good possession but Spurs worked hard to close them down and restricted them in any serious attacking threat.  Gradually, Spurs started to make greater use of their possession with their passing being more accurate.  Luka Modric linked well with Emmanuel Adebayor who set up Rafael Van der Vaart but his shot was deflected wide.  Swansea responded well with the former Spurs player, Wayne Routledge, shooting wide.  Gareth Bale was beginning to cause problems on the left and his cross to the near post was touched wide by Adebayor.

 On nineteen minutes,  Modric sent Bale free on the left and his cross to Adebayor was cut out by a defender but it fell to Van der Vaart to shoot from the edge of the penalty area giving Vorm no chance.  Spurs continued to be the more dangerous in attack and from a corner Kaboul's header was well saved by the goalkeeper.  Again Swansea responded with a header over from a corner, showing that they could pose a threat if Spurs lowered their standards.

In the final quarter of an hour to the interval, Spurs had a number of attempts on goal without troubling the goalkeeper - twice Bale shot over after good link up play and then in the last minute Modric shot past the post.

Early in the second half, Sigurdssen warned Spurs with a great shot that forced Friedel into a wonderful save at full stretch.  Then after fifty four minutes he did score, his sixth goal in Swansea's last five away matches.  Swansea deserved their goal for their hard work and passing and for a time they took a measure of control but then Spurs regained their momentum with Bale creating problems for the visitors' defence.  Following patient work and passing by Spurs, Bale put in a cross to the near post but Van der Vaart's header was saved by Vorm.  Then Bale had a shot saved from twenty yards and following a good forward run by Kaboul, Adebayor's weak shot was saved.

Spurs were gradually building up the pressure as Bale, on the left, took the opportunity to run at the defence and put in a number of dangerous crosses.  From one, as Adebayor waited, a defender cleared for a corner which Bale headed towards goal but it was cleared for another corner.  Again, Van der Vaart took the corner, and this time he found Adebayor who rose above the defence to head home and Spurs were ahead after seventy three minutes.  It was the first goal Spurs had scored from 134 corners in the League - an amazing statistic.

Spurs continued to be the more threatening and could have added further goals but it wasn't until four minutes from time that following a run and shot by Bale, that was saved, the ball went out to Aaron Lennon and his cross was headed home by Adebayor.  In added time Kaboul put in two blocking tackles to deny Swansea but Spurs had secured their first win in six Premier League games.

Spurs maintained their undefeated home record against Swansea, having won the last fourteen matches between the clubs at White Hart Lane.  More importantly, for the current team, they are level on points with Arsenal and five points clear of both Chelsea and Newcastle United.  Sunderland await at the Stadium of Light next weekend.
 

Tottenham 3 Stevenage 1 FA Cup

It's customary for the minnows or underdogs to get a late consolation goal as acknowledgement of their gallant effort.  Last night Spurs turned that idea upside down as Stevenage scored inside four minutes and could have added to it before Tottenham eventually came to life.

Tottenham Hotspur 3 Stevenage 1  

(FA Cup 5th Round Replay)

Scorers:  Defoe (2), Adebayor (pen)       Byrom (pen)

Team: Cudicini; Kaboul, Dawson (Walker), Nelsen, Rose; Lennon (Adebayor), Parker, Kranjcar (Livermore), Bale; Van der Vaart; Defoe  Subs: (unused) Friedel, Modric, Gallas, Giovani

 Spurs Writers' Club - Tottenham, The Glory-Glory Game

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Spurs progressed to the FA Cup 6th Round and a home match against Bolton Wanderers but it was not as easy as the scoreline might suggest.  Spurs had put out a strong team with a strong bench for backup while both former Spurs, Chris Day and Ronnie Henry, were in the visitor's starting line-up.

Spurs started sluggishly, content to pass the ball around but in the third minute Joel Byrom made the first foray into the Spurs penalty area to be brought down by Ryan Nelsen.  A penalty which was duly dispatched, Cudicini diving the wrong way.  That was greeted with stunned disbelief by the Spurs fans and great exuberation from the Stevenage faithful.

Spurs looking to bounce back from two consecutive League defeats had just added to the pressure on themselves and for the next twenty minutes it just got worse.  First Michael Dawson had to be replaced, carried off injured, and then Spurs play went from bad to worse as their passing went awry and their play was totally devoid of ideas as Stevenage defended with composure and endeavour.

After twenty four minutes Spurs had provided no threat to Chris Day in the Stevenage goal but the visitors could so easily have been two ahead as a header from a free-kick looped over the crossbar.  Thirty seconds later, Spurs were ahead.  As one national paper put it, five touches later and Jermain Defoe had scored.  A short goal-kick from Carlo Cudicini to Gareth Bale, a long ball forward from the left found Defoe centrally, on the edge of the box, one touch to control and another to set himself and then a powerful strike past a diving goalkeeper.  That was the first FA Cup goal that Day had conceded this season - denying teams for over five games and a total of 475 minutes.

A sigh of relief from Spurs supporters, assured that the goal would see Spurs take control but it wasn't to be.  Certainly, Spurs play improved but Stevenage matched them and were deserving to be level at the interval.  Aaron Lennon had by this time departed, injured, to be replaced by Emmanuel Adebayor and he had nearly made contact with a pass from Rafael Van der Vaart just before half-time.

Into the second half and after three minutes, it appeared as if Defoe had put Spurs ahead following good work and a cross by Younes Kaboul but the England striker was ruled offside.  Stevenage continued to be a threat from corners and Cudicini had to make a sharp save at close range to keep them out.  Then Gareth Bale got the breakthrough they were looking for after ten minutes of the second half.  Gareth Bale made a run into the area on the right and as he was about to put in a cross, he was brought down and the referee signalled a penalty, having been advised by his assistant.  Adebayor remained calm to score easily.

That was the filip that Spurs needed as suddenly their play and confidence levels were lifted and Bale became an increasing threat to Stevenage by creating a number of chances for Defoe and Adebayor.  He also hit a thunderous shot against the crossbar but Stevenage weren't going to give up without a fight and their threat at set-pieces continued.  From one, they hit the bar with a header and the ball bounced down to land only inches from the line, to be grabbed by Cudicini. 

Spurs chances continued to come and go as Bale's pace caught Stevenage out but it was from a quickly taken long throw from his own half that set up Defoe for the third.  Gathering the ball from Bale's throw, Defoe ran on  towards the goal with the defenders uncertain what to do as he lashed a shot past Day.

Stevenage continued to work hard and can be satisfied with their performance.  If Spurs had scored any more goals the result would have been flattering to them.  Stevenage received a very deserved reception from their fans at the end but Spurs continue to the next round, one step closer to the 'Joy of Winning the Cup'.

Spurs were looking for a boost after their previous disappointing results but as they say in 'Deal or No Deal', "that tells us nothing."  It could be the start of something good or it might not.  The result against Everton will be a better indicator if Spurs have rediscovered their defensive composure and their attacking threat against Premier League opponents.

Worryingly for Spurs, Dawson will be out for the rest of the season while Lennon will be out for a spell with a re-occurrence of his injury.  The central defensive positions are of concern as Spurs will be looking for their two experienced campaigners, Ledley King and Gallas, to overcome their injuries and provide cover during the coming weeks.  The absence of`Lennon again reduces the attacking threat which Spurs can pose when both he and Bale are running at defenders from the wide areas.

How Spurs deal with these injuries and how they deploy the remaining players will determine whether Spurs can find the level of consistency needed to retain third place in the Premier League and if they can sustain a challenge for the FA Cup.  It will be an interesting few weeks for Tottenham supporters.

They Scored for Spurs and Arsenal in the North London Derby

Jimmy Robertson

Who has scored for both Spurs and Arsenal in a North London derby?

Emmanuel Adebayo

Until Sunday this question had only one answer but Emmanuel Adebayor's penalty against Arsenal meant that he joined Jimmy Robertson as only the second player to score a goal for both Tottenham and Arsenal in a North London derby.

Through Spurs history there are only a small number of players who have played for both clubs and transfers between the two North London clubs are rare.

However, until Sunday, only one player has managed to score for both clubs in a North London derby and it was Jimmy Robertson.

He joined Spurs from St Mirren in 1963 and was a member of Spurs FA Cup winning team in 1967, scoring in the Final against Chelsea.

His goal for Spurs against Arsenal was in the 3-1 home win in October, 1964, the other goals scored by Jimmy Greaves and Frank Saul.

He was transferred to Arsenal in October, 1968, in exchange for David Jenkins - not one of manager Bill Nicholson's best transfer deals.   Jenkins made only a few appearances for Spurs while Robertson played for Arsenal for two seasons before moving on to Ipswich Town and Stoke City.

His goal for Arsenal against Spurs was at Highbury in September, 1969 when Spurs won 3-2 with goals from Alan Gilzean, John Pratt and Martin Chivers.

Last Sunday, Emmanuel Adebayor's goal, on his twenty eighth birthday, from the penalty spot after a foul on Gareth Bale gave Spurs a two goal lead after 34 minutes but unfortunately Arsenal were level before the interval and over ran Spurs in the second half to record a 5 - 2 victory.  Spurs remained in third position in the Premier League while Arsenal moved above Chelsea on goal difference into fourth spot, seven points behind Spurs.

Adebayor, with Tottenham on a season long loan deal from Manchester City had spent three years with Arsenal before joining Manchester City in 2009.  He made over 100 League appearances for the club, scoring 46 goals.  He spent the second half of last season in Spain at Real Madrid, on loan.

Adebayor made a habit of scoring against Spurs for Arsenal being their joint top scorer with eight goals.  He even scored twice against Spurs for Real Madrid in last season's Champions League quarter-final tie in Madrid which Spurs lost 0 - 4.

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Arsenal 5 Tottenham 2

Spurs picked the worst possible day to let slip a two goal lead.  After a bright opening and two goals inside thirty five minutes everything fell apart for Tottenham who were hoping to maintain parity with the top two teams while widening the gap on the teams challenging for third place.  A defining match in terms of the title race for Spurs and a readjustment of their focus to the FA Cup and finishing third in the League to be assured of Champions League football next season. 

Arsenal 5 Tottenham Hotspur 2

           Scorers: Sagna, Van Persie, Rosicky, Walcott (2)            Saha, Adebayor (pen)

Team:  Friedel; Walker, Kaboul, King (Dawson), Assou-Ekotto; Kranjcar (Sandro), Parker, Modric, Bale; Saha (Van der Vaart), Adebayor  Subs: (unused) Cudicini, Rose, Lennon, Defoe

Harry Redknapp selected the formation and team which defeated Newcastle a fortnight ago but with Younes Kaboul replacing Michael Dawson in central defence.  

Spurs were ahead after three minutes when a pass from Emmanuel Adebayor found Louis Saha in acres of space and as he advanced into the penalty area his shot was deflected off the heel of the defender trying to close him down.  The ball looped into the air and over the goalkeeper.  Spurs couldn't have asked for a better start.

Gareth Bale then put in a good cross to the near post which Adebayor pushed wide.  Spurs had started much quicker and were well marshalled in defence and finding space as they broke at pace against a rather stretched Arsenal defence.  Spurs were awarded a free-kick on the edge of the box for a foul on Nico Kranjcar which they took quickly before Arsenal had re-organised but it came to nothing.

Gradually, Arsenal started to put their game together and a Van Persie shot was deflected wide by Kaboul.  From the corner to the near post Brad Friedel reacted well to save a goal bound header.  This was a warning to Spurs that they couldn't relax or take anything for granted.

Spurs broke forward when Saha released Adebayor but his effort was blocked by the goalkeeper and rebounded to Kyle Walker who blazed over.  Walker was taking every opportunity to get forward on the right but on his next venture forward, he never had the ball fully under control.

Scott Parker and Luca Modric were both booked when Parker gave away a free-kick outside the box.  On thirty four minutes Modric played Bale in and as he took on the defenders he was brought down by Gibbs with a penalty awarded.  Adebayor coolly scored on his 28th birthday to give Spurs a two goal advantage and become only the second player, after Jimmy Robertson, to score for both clubs in a north London derby.

Almost immediately, Arsenal caught Spurs out on the halfway line and Walcott had the chance to break for goal.  He chose to pass to Van Persie but he was crowded out.  Next, Bale got away again but he chose to shoot when Saha was unmarked, and the goalkeeper saved easily.

Just as Spurs were looking to consolidate and get to half-time, Arsenal scored twice in three minutes.  Van Persie's shot hit the post but Arsenal collected the ball on the left and played it back in for Sagna to put in a header which gave Friedel no chance.  Three minutes later, after a poor clearance from Benoit Assou-Ekotto, Van Persie equalised from the edge of the box.  Such a turn around, from Arsenal looking in disarray, it was Spurs who were bewildered.

At half-time Redknapp replaced Kranjcar and Saha with Sando and Rafael Van der Vaart but it was Arsenal who were in the ascendancy.  They quickly got into their stride and Spurs simply didn't respond.  Friedel was called upon to save low to his left but after fifty minutes he could do nothing as Rosicky put Arsenal ahead.  He had created the goal with a penetrating run and kept going to meet the cross ahead of King and Friedel and poke the ball home at the near post.

Arsenal were playing with a desire  and a confidence which had been missing in the first half.  Spurs were floundering as Walcott shot past the post but a few minutes later he was set away as Arsenal counter attacked with Spurs defence spread-eagled to get number four.  Three minutes later he added number five, as Spurs stuttered not knowing what to do, having not scored at home for a year.

Sandro put in a shot which was saved but there was little threat from Spurs and at the end they were relieved to keep the score line as it was.  Parker was sent off in the final minutes for a second bookable offence.  

It was a bad day at the office but in typical Spurs fashion they had to have it against Arsenal.  The home team wanted the result more than Spurs who even though they had gone two up were never in control, there had been warning signs which they didn't heed.  The changes made at half-time didn't help the team as neither player got into the game and those around them seemed unsure of how they were to play.  No Spurs player takes credit from this game and unusually for him, Ledley King was not at his best.

Spurs now trail City and United by ten and eight points respectively.  They are seven points ahead of Arsenal who moved ahead of Chelsea, on goal difference, into fourth.  Spurs' outside dreams of the title have now faded so their focus has to be to retain third and Champions League football with a determined effort to win a trophy - the FA Cup.  Their next game, against United at home, is not the best way to get over their worst performance of the season but to avoid going into free-fall they need a positive result.

This match has been called a 'classic' by the media but I'm tired of Spurs being involved at the losing end of such matches.  Spurs have a problem when facing 'top' teams, they can't put together a performance or a result.  This season, apart from Liverpool at home, they have struggled in those matches.  They've lost three out of three against the Manchester clubs.  They beat Arsenal at home but the performance wasn't great.  They drew with Chelsea but after a good start allowed a poor Chelsea to dominate them.  They have a chance next weekend to rectify that issue when they meet a United side reliant on their experienced players to keep them on track.

Spurs missed the chance to complete the 'double' over Arsenal for the first time since 1992-93 and they haven't beaten United since May, 2001 so that will be a record to try to correct next week.

Spurs Away Record Against Arsenal

Last season's recovery from a two goal deficit was Tottenham's first success at the Emirates and their first away win over Arsenal since May, 1993.  Having won at White Hart in October, Spurs are seeking their first 'double' over their north London rivals since that 1992-93 season.

Last season Spurs staged a remarkable recovery to win at the Emirates for the first time.  When Spurs went two goals down with less than thirty minutes played, it looked as if it was going to be a familiar story of disappointment and defeat.  At the interval, Harry Redknapp replaced Aaron Lennon with Jermain Defoe and switched to 4 - 4 - 2 formation as Spurs demonstrated their true ability.  Gareth Bale's goal after fifty minutes brought them back into the game.  Rafael Van der Vaart then coolly scored from the penalty spot with twenty three minutes remaining and Younes Kaboul completed the comeback by heading the winner from a Van der Vaart free-kick with five minutes left.

Nov. 2010 PL Won 3 - 2  Bale, Van der Vaart (pen), Kaboul
Team: Gomes; Hutton, Gallas, Kaboul, Assou-Ekotto; Lennon (Defoe), Jenas, Modric, Bale; Van der Vaart (Palacios); Pavlyuchenko (Crouch)

May, 1993 PL Won 3 - 1  Sheringham, Hendry (2)
Team: Walker; McDonald, Mabbutt, Ruddock, Van den Hauwe; Anderton, Hill, Sedgley, Allen, P.; Sheringham, Hendry (Hodges)
Arsenal, having beaten Spurs by a single goal at Wembley a few weeks earlier, were days away from the FA Cup Final against Sheffield Wednesday.  They fielded an understrength team for the final League game of the season.  Teddy Sheringham put Spurs ahead five minutes before half-time.  John Hendry, starting only his second game of the season, increased the lead a minute into the second half.  Arsenal pulled one back six minutes later but Hendry added his second with twelve minutes remaining.  This was Spurs last success at Highbury.  Spurs finished the season in 8th position while Arsenal were tenth.

Of greater significance, however, were the events off the pitch which were to come to light in the following days papers.  Unknown to the mass of Spurs supporters around the world, was the behind closed doors activities in the Board Room that was about to bring to light the great fall-out between Alan Sugar and Terry Venables and drag the club’s good name through the newspapers and the courts for some considerable time.  This would be Venables’ last game with any responsibility for Spurs and what had seemed to be a glimmer of hope for a brighter future was to be extinguished beyond repair.  

Away League Record against Arsenal:

P  70  W  17  D  19  L  34  For  79  Ag  112

Away Premier League Record against Arsenal:

P  19  W  2  D  7  L  10  For  18  Ag  33 

Memorable  Matches:

Oct. 2008  PL  Draw 4 - 4  Bentley, Bent, Jenas, Lennon

Officially, this was Harry Redknapp's first game as manager of Spurs although he had been present for the first win of the season against Bolton the previous Sunday.  Spurs got off to the perfect start when David Bentley scored with a wonder strike after thirteen minutes.  Arsenal equalised before half-time and William Gallas put them ahead in the first minute after the interval.  Emmanuel Adebayor got his customary goal to make it 3 - 1 but three minutes later substitute, Darren Bent, pulled a goal back, only two minutes after coming on.  A minute later Arsenal restored their two goal advantage.  Approaching the final minute they still maintained their lead but Jermaine Jenas scored in the 89th minute only for Lennon to complete the recovery a minute later. 

Apr. 2006  PL  Draw 1 - 1  Keane 

With only three games left in the season, this match was crucial in the battle for fourth place and Champions League qualification.  Spurs had held fourth for much of the season but Arsenal were making a final bid to deprive Spurs of their first Champions League outing.  Goalless at half-time Robbie Keane had given Spurs the lead after 66 minutes - advantage Spurs.  However, with six minutes remaining, Henry equalised having been set up by Adebayor.  In the final minutes Spurs had to hold on with ten men as Edgar Davids was sent off for two yellow card offences.  

Martin Jol's side won their final home game but Arsenal with a game in hand won their next two and so it went down to the final day when a sickly Spurs team were beaten at West Ham and Arsenal snatched fourth from their grasp.

Tottenham 5 Newcastle United 0

A perfect end to the week for Harry Redknapp as Spurs, inspired by a re-energised Emmanuel Adebayor, scored five goals against Newcastle at White Hart Lane as the fans continually showed their support for the manager.

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What an End to Redknapp's Perfect Week

Tottenham Hotspur 5 Newcastle United 0

Scorers: Assou-Ekotto, Saha (2), Kranjcar, Adebayor

Team: Friedel; Walker, Dawson, King (Nelsen), Assou-Ekotto; Kranjcar, Parker, Modric, Bale (Lennon); Saha (Defoe), Adebayor  Subs (unused): Cudicini, Khumalo, Rose, Livermore

White Hart Lane was buzzing with the Spurs supporters constantly singing and chanting the name of Harry Redknapp as they showed their support for the manager.  The fans were up for the game and so were the players as Newcastle discovered very early on as Tottenham scored twice in the opening six minutes with Emmanuel Adebayor the creator and inspiration for the team.

 

Louis Saha made his home debut in place of Jake Livermore, with Aaron Lennon and Jermain Defoe fit enough to return to the substitutes bench.  With Newcastle in search of a top four finish a difficult game was expected but they were restricted due to injuries in midfield.  Spurs started very brightly and Adeboyor had created the first goal within four minutes.  Looking lively and more energetic than in  previous matches, he took a ball from Gareth Bale and made a forceful run and cross to where Benoit Assou-Ekotto was waiting, unmarked at the the corner of the six yard box and he gleefully hammered the ball into the net.  It was a perfect start for Spurs and answered the question as to whether the media speculation about Harry Redknapp and the England manager's position had been a distraction at the club.  The answer was clearly in the negative and after another two minutes it became a resounding, "No!"

Adebayor, again, made another strong run on the right and crossed for Louis Saha to score on his home debut against the team with whom he started his career in English football.  Two minutes later, Saha turned provider and set up Adebayor but the shot went out for a goal kick.  Two minutes on and Bale turned creator and set up Adebayor but he was unable to control the through ball and it ran on to the goalkeeper.

From a Newcastle corner, Adebayor, in trying to put in a tackle, slipped and the ball ran over his arm but the referee turned down any penalty appeals.  A Bale run and cross came out to Kranjcar but he blasted over on fifteen minutes.  it was all Spurs and they struck again when a Modric cross was laid back by Adebayor for Saha to score through the defenders legs.

The ease with which Spurs were playing encouraged the supporters and there was a constant tide of support for Harry Redknapp.  Bale continued to be dangerous and he crossed to Saha who passed to Adebayor but the shot went wide.

Brad Friedel made a finger tip save from a free-kick when Scott Parker was booked for a foul on the edge of the area.

After thirty four minutes Spurs scored their fourth as Saha broke from halfway and put in Adebayor with a lovely cross/pass - Adebayor's shot was saved but it came back to him and as he tried to regain control it fell to Kranjcar who scored - his first goal in a year.

Spurs continued to play free flowing football with Newcastle chasing shadows although Ba had a shot straight at Friedel.  The visitors defenders were finding Adebayor unplayable and he put in another cross to Kranjcar who shot over.  Then in the final minute of the half, Spurs were awarded a free-kick on the edge of the box which Adebayor touched to Assou-Ekotto but with a clesar sight on goal, he blasted it over.


After half-time Spurs were content to maintain possession for long periods with Newcastle unable to take the ball from them and when they did get it, they just gave it straight back to Spurs.  After sixty four minutes, Bale played in Adebayor but he just failed to control the ball.  Spurs appeared to be satisfied with four goals but then a good ball went from Bale out to Assou-Ekotto on the left and his centre was headed back by Saha to Adebayor who hooked it into the net for a deserved goal and his tenth of the season.  Adebayor and Saha were showing an excellent understanding in their first game together.

Bale shot over from twenty five yards.  Lennon and Defoe replaced Bale and Saha as Spurs continued to play at will with little threat from Newcastle.  Ryan Nelsen made his debut as a replacement for Ledley King.  Kyle Walker had an excellent run on the right but his cross was just too high for Adebayor.  Then Newcastle created their first danger of the evening when Ba got a header on target from close range but Friedel reacted instinctively to save and the rebound was hit over.

Spurs produced a quick passing movement from Defoe to Adebayor to Kranjcar and back to Adebayor but the final shot passed wide.  Luka Modric had a shot saved and Adebayor again shot over after Parker and Defoe had created the chance for him.


Newcastle have now lost on their last three visits to White Hart Lane and this match was the perfect end to a hectic week for Harry Redknapp.  He was cleared of all charges in his court case, he is top candidate for the England manager's post, the fans showed their desire for him to stay and the players responded by producing one of their best displays of the season.  The only thing which could have improved Redknapp's week would have been Bale scoring with the late chance on Monday evening at Anfield.

Emmanuel Adebayor was revitalised throughout, involved in every goal, with four assists and a goal.  He linked well with Saha who scored two goals in twenty minutes for Spurs, having only managed that number in twenty games this season with Everton.


Spurs are now ten points ahead of Arsenal and Chelsea, five behind Manchester United who beat Liverpool to go a point ahead of City who play Aston Villa later today.  Spurs did all they could today to persuade Harry Redknapp to stay at White Hart Lane and bide his time before accepting his ultimate job, the England manager's role.

Just as the fans chanted, "We want you to stay Harry Redknapp, we want you to stay," so I reiterate their words of yesterday but in all likelihood such sentiments won't be enough to keep Harry at White Hart Lane.