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. 

   

Spurs' Home Record against Fulham

Spurs need to end their season with a victory over Fulham to stand any chance of Champions League football next season.  Even then, it may depend on events elsewhere, including next weekend's Champions League Final in Munich.

Spurs' final home Premier League match of the season has them entertaining Fulham with Martin Jol in charge.  Earlier in the season Spurs defeated Fulham 3 - 1 in a hard earned victory at Craven Cottage.  They can expect another difficult afternoon as they battle for the points which should ensure a Champions League place next season, as long as Chelsea don't defeat Bayern Munich next Saturday.

Last Season's Result:
Jan. 2011  PL  Won 1 - 0  Bale
This New Year's Day encounter was settled when Gareth Bale headed Rafael Van der Vaart's free-kick into the goal, three minutes before half-time.  It was a hard-earned victory and ensured that Spurs had taken maximum points from the three matches over the holiday period. 

Spurs' Home League Record against Fulham (inc. PL):

P  39  W  21  D  16  L  2  For  67  Ag  30

Premier League Record at White Hart Lane against Fulham:

P  10  W  6  D  3  L  1  For  16  Ag  5

Fulham's first League success at White Hart Lane was in April, 1948 in a 2nd Division match which they won 2 - 0.  It was the second of three home defeats in five days for Spurs.  Their second success came in August, 2003 in their third season in the Premier League after an absence of over thirty years from the top flight of English football, when they triumphed 3 - 0 in what was the penultimate home match of Glenn Hoddle's time as manager.  Defeat to Southampton in the next home game sealed his fate.

Fulham have proved a difficult team to beat since their arrival in the Premier League and Spurs can expect another difficult afternoon against their London rivals with Martin Jol having an extra incentive for success.

Previous Premier League Meetings at White Hart Lane:

Jan. 2010  Won 2 - 0  Crouch, Bentley       

A goal in each half secured the points for Spurs and brought to an end a run of three games without a win.

Dec. 2008  Draw 0 - 0
A rather dour affair with Spurs unable to break down Fulham's well organised defence which wasn't appropriate fare for this Boxing Day game.

Dec. 2007  Won 5 - 1  Keane (2), Huddlestone (2), Defoe
This was the first of three consecutive Boxing Day matches against Fulham and while it was a goal fest for Spurs the others in 2008 and at Craven Cottage in 2009 ended goalless.  Robbie Keane and Tom Huddleston gave Spurs a two goal lead by the interval.  Dempsey pulled one back for the visitors on the hour but Keane responded immediately to restore Tottenham's advantage.  Huddlestone and Defoe completed the afternoon's entertainment.

Sept. 2006  Draw 0 - 0
Spurs were unable to unsettle Fulham's defensive strategy which they'd set out from the beginning in order to get a point.

Sept. 2005  Won 1 - 0  Defoe
Jermain Defoe gave Spurs an early lead which suggested it was going to be comfortable afternoon but it was far from that as Spurs were called to defend for long periods as Fulham sought an equaliser.  This result enabled Spurs to reclaim fourth place in the early season league table.

Feb. 2005  Won 2 - 0  Kanoute, Keane
Spurs struggled to make the breakthrough but after introducing Fredi Kanoute for Defoe with less that twenty minutes remaining the substitute scored the opening goal.  Keane then replaced Mido and he added the second in the final minute.

Aug. 2003  Lost 0 - 3
In a dire performance from Spurs, Fulham were comfortable winners with a first half goal and two in four minutes midway through the second half.

Feb. 2003  Draw 1 - 1  Sheringham (pen)
Ledley King scored an own goal after fifteen minutes but a Teddy Sheringham penalty before the interval brought Spurs level.

Dec. 2001  Won 4 - 0  Ferdinand, Anderton, Davies, Rebrov
Spurs fans had an abundance of goals at White Hart Lane as in the previous match in mid-week they had seen their team win 6 - 1 against Bolton in the Worthington Cup.  Les Ferdinand and Darren Anderton scored before half-time and Simon Davies and Sergei Rebrov added two further goals in six minutes midway through the second half.  Ferdinand's goal after twenty minutes gave him the distinction of scoring the 10,000th Premier League goal.

Previous Meetings:
The previous occasion that Spurs played Fulham in a League match at White Hart Lane was in their season in the 2nd Division in 1977 - 78.  The match was played in September and resulted in a single goal victory for Spurs.  The goal was scored by Chris Jones.

The last match in the 1st Division was on 26th December, 1967.  The Boxing Day fixture ended in a draw with another C. Jones scoring both goals.  It was Cliff Jones who scored as the match ended 2 - 2.  Four days later, the return match at Craven Cottage ended 2 - 1 in Spurs' favour with Jimmy Robertson and that man, Cliff Jones, scoring the goals.  The following October Jones joined Fulham after ten very successful years with Tottenham.

The First Meeting in the Football League at Tottenham
The two clubs had met in their Southern League days but they first met in the Football League in a 2nd Division match at White Hart Lane in April, 1909.  Spurs were fighting to win promotion and this win kept them on track, the goal being scored by Vivian Woodward who scored 22 League and Cup goals in their debut season in the Football League.

Biggest Wins:

Dec. 1919  Div. 2  Won 4 - 0  Walden, Minter (2), Bliss  [Spurs won 2nd Division]

Nov. 1960  Div. 1  Won 5 - 1  Jones (2), White, Allen (2)  [Spurs won 1st Division & FA Cup]

Dec. 2001  PL  Won 4 - 0  Ferdinand, Anderton, Davies, Rebrov

Dec. 2007  PL  Won 5 - 1  Keane (2), Huddlestone (2), Defoe

For the first time in five matches Spurs are not faced with a team battling against relegation and while White Hart Lane has never been Fulham's favourite ground, they have proved difficult to beat and will not give Spurs an inch in this final match of the season.  A London derby against committed opposition will be a real test of Spurs' desire and nerve to stake a claim for a Champions League place next season.  Tottenham will need to match Fulham's endeavour and ensure they take any goal scoring chances that are created - only a win will do, unless there are very unexpected results at the Hawthorns and Goodison Park.   

  

Tottenham - Final Home Match of the Season

For many seasons for younger Tottenham supporters, the final home match and the last game of the season have had little importance for Spurs.  Safely ensconced in mid-table, it was just another match to be played to bring the season to a close with nothing at stake.  For the past few seasons, however, with Spurs' improving status there has been something to play for and this weekend's home game with Fulham has the greatest importance of any final match played at White Hart Lane for some considerable time. 

The result of Sunday's match against Fulham, not to overstate its importance, could determine Spurs' future direction for years to come.  A third place finish with automatic Champions League qualification will allow immediate planning for the coming season to commence - current players will be less inclined to fall into the snare of other clubs while Tottenham would be a more attractive proposition for prospective players.  The plans for the development of the new ground would have a greater chance of progressing and attracting the financial backers and sponsors which are required for Daniel Levy to finally give it the green light.  Any other finish, even fourth, would bring with it certain restraints which would cause delay - Chelsea winning the Champions League and thus missing out on the competition, dropping into the Europa League for another season would be less appealing to current and future players and create a less profitable financial situation.  The knock-on effect for attracting sponsorship would be similar so Sunday's result is crucial for the club.

It has not always been so, as the last home game of the season approached.  Frequently, it has been the opposition who have had more to play for and for some White Hart Lane was a good place to visit.  In 1996-97, Coventry City were the visitors and their 2 - 1 victory ensured their Premier League survival by  a single point, condemning Sunderland and Middlesbrough with already relegated Nottingham Forest.  A young Northern Ireland player, Paul McVeigh, scored Spurs' goal in what was his third and final appearance for the club.  He remained with Tottenham until March, 2000 when he was given a free transfer and signed for Norwich City.  He made twenty appearances for Northern Ireland, making his debut while with Spurs and then made over 200 appearances for Norwich.

May, 2011

Tottenham 2 Birmingham City 1  Pavlyuchenko (2)  [Final place finish: 5th]
Last season's final game of the season was important for Birmingham who were looking to avoid relegation while Spurs could ensure Europa League qualification.  In the end results elsewhere determined the outcome of both situations.  Liverpool's defeat meant Spurs were in Europe while a Wolves' recovery guaranteed their safety and had relegated Birmingham even before Roman Pavlyuchenko scored the second of his two goals in the final minute.

May, 2010
Tottenham 1 Bolton Wanderers 0  Huddlestone   [Final place finish: 4th]
With two away games to follow, it was essential that Spurs won to maintain their pursuit of fourth place.  Tom Huddlestone's thunderbolt of a drive in the first half ensured that Tottenham remained in pole position ahead of their vital head-to-head clash with Manchester City to secure Champions league qualification.  Peter Crouch's goal in Manchester four days later brought that dream to reality.

May, 2009
Tottenham 2 Manchester City 1  Defoe, Keane (p)  [Final place finish: 8th]
Having battled for survival after a nightmare start to the season, Harry Redknapp in his first season at White Hart Lane had lifted the club to safety with an outside chance of making the Europa League.  This win over City maintained that prospect but a final day defeat at Anfield brought it to an end.  Jermain Defoe gave Spurs an early lead but City drew level midway through the second half.  Robbie Keane secured victory with a penalty four minutes from time.

May, 2008
Tottenham 0 Liverpool 2  [Final place finish: 11th]
Having won the Carling Cup at the end of February, Juande Ramos' team sleep walked through the rest of the season to finish eleventh.  Liverpool brought the final rites to the season with two second half goals in what was a disappointing performance from Spurs.

May, 2007
Tottenham 2 Manchester City 1  Keane, Berbatov  [Final place finish: 5th]   
Spurs ensured their qualification for the UEFA Cup with a fifth place finish for the second successive season under Martin Jol.  They scored two first half goals from Keane and Dimitar Berbatov but allowed City to pull one back before the interval but then held on throughout the second period to claim the points.

April, 2006
Tottenham 1 Bolton Wanderers 0  Lennon  [Final place finish: 5th]
Aaron Lennon's goal after an hour maintained Spurs' hold on fourth place as they faced stiff competition from Arsenal for the final place for Champions League qualification.  Spurs had been fourth since November but it would go down to the final games the next weekend when Spurs travelled across London to face West Ham United.  As we all know, 'Lasagne-gate' became headlines as a sickly Tottenham played out the game with an ailing team who were clearly unwell.  Spurs lost, Arsenal won and Tottenham fans had to wait another until 2010 for their first experience of the Champions League.

May, 2005
Tottenham 0 Blackburn Rovers 0  [Final place finish: 9th]
Spurs had an outside chance of European qualification but it had really been lost the previous weekend with a single goal defeat at Middlesbrough.  A stubborn Rovers team came to deny Tottenham and they succeeded.

It was Atrocious
May, 2003
Tottenham 0 Blackburn Rovers 4  [Final place finish: 10th]
This wasn't how it wa ssupposed to be when Glenn Hoddle took over as manager.  Spurs had lost 1 - 5 the previous week at Middlesbrough and brought the season to a close in front of clearly dissatisfied and disgruntled supporters at White Hart Lane.  It was Teddy Sheringham's final game for the club but there was nothing to commend about the performance which saw Gus Poyet sent off and Blackburn score twice in each half.  There were calls for Hoddle to go and it wasn't long into the new season before he departed.

It was a Celebration!

May, 1977
Tottenham 2 Leicester City 0  Pratt, Holmes  [Final place finish: 22nd - Relegation]
Spurs' relegation had been determined the previous weekend in a five goal defeat at Manchester City.  The team threw off their fears and gave the fans something to cheer in the final match with goals from John Pratt and Jimmy Holmes.  The team included Pat Jennings for whom it would be his last League appearance for the club, Steve Perryman, Glenn Hoddle and Peter Taylor.  The fans showed their loyalty to the club as they prepared for a step into the unknown - a year in the 2nd Division.


It was Tense!!
April, 1978
Tottenham 1 Hull City 0  Perryman  [Final place finish: 3rd - Promotion]
One year on and Tottenham experienced a very tense evening at White Hart Lane.  Spurs promotion had seemed secure earlier in the season but two successive defeats left them in danger of missing out.  A late goal scored by captain, Steve Perryman, secured the points and they lived to fight another day - a final day visit to Southampton who were also in the battle for promotion.  A tense scoreless draw gave both clubs promotion, Tottenham at the expense of Brighton on goal difference.


Sunday's match against Fulham is sure to be tense but hopefully, Spurs will come through and if results elsewhere go in their favour, the supporters will have plenty to celebrate - another crack at the Champions League.

Tottenham - the Final Day Conundrum

Thirty seven matches played, the hard work done, but Spurs' destiny for the season now depends on those final day results.  To be guaranteed a place in next season's Champions League Spurs must finish in third but if Chelsea win this year's competition, it will be via the final play-off round in August.  

Battle for Champions League finish

For ninety minutes last weekend against Aston Villa, Spurs were in control of their own destiny.  Arsenal's home draw with Norwich City had provided them with the opportunity to leapfrog Arsenal and move into third position if they could get three points at Villa Park.  The draw which seemed to satisfy Harry Redknapp, once he knew that Newcastle United had lost to Manchester City handed the initiative back to Arsenal with one match remaining.

Season 1995 - 96
Chelsea's defeat at Anfield on Tuesday evening removes them from the equation for third, fourth and fifth.  Spurs will finish above Chelsea for the first time since season 1995-96.  That was a season when Gerry Francis oversaw our eighth place finish with Chelsea in eleventh.  The Spurs' team included Ian Walker and Teddy Sheringham who were ever presents, Chris Armstrong, Justin Edinburgh, Jason Dozzell, Colin Calderwood, Dean Austin, David Howells, Ronnie Rosenthal, Ruel Fox, Clive Wilson and Gary Mabbutt.  Darren Anderton started six games, making a late successful claim for a place in  the England team for Euro96 by appearing in the last four games of the season and scoring twice in a win at Leeds United.

Battle for the Champions League
Tottenham, Arsenal and Newcastle United are in contention to finish third, fourth or fifth in the Premier League.  With one match to play, Arsenal hold the advantage with a single point lead over Spurs who are one point ahead of Newcastle.  The goal difference column again gives Arsenal a one goal advantage over Spurs with Newcastle the poor relations in this regard.  Let's hope that Spurs will not regret strolling through two goal home victories earlier in the season when they had created sufficient opportunities to have recorded a significant win.

If Tottenham win against Martin Jol's Fulham team who are currently in ninth place with 52 points,  they would finish with 69 points.  That would mean that Arsenal would have to take all three points at West Bromwich Albion where Roy Hodgson will have his last game in charge before taking over as England manager.  If Arsenal were to lose then Spurs would finish third with the other placing dependent on Newcastle's result at Everton.

If Tottenham draw then their near neighbours can remain above them with a draw or a single goal defeat as they have the goal difference in their favour.  Defeat by two goals and Spurs would gain the advantage over Arsenal but Newcastle could move into third with a win at Goodison Park.

If Spurs lose at home to Fulham for the first time since August, 2003, their best place finish would be fourth as long as Newcastle have failed to take the three points from Everton.

For Spurs to have any chance of finishing third Arsenal must not win at the Hawthorns.  To be certain of Champions League qualification Spurs need to be third as Chelsea have the opportunity to deny the fourth placed team by defeating Bayern Munich in this year's final.  If they were to win, the third placed team would have to take part in the final play-off round in August.

The need for Spurs to finish third and Chelsea not to win this year's competition is immense as Tottenham's summer transfer dealings, both in and possible outs, would be greatly complicated by having to wait for the guarantee of the finances associated with reaching the Champions League Group stages which Daniel Levy will require before committing outlay on top players who will be reluctant to sign unless they also have that Champions League guarantee.

In past seasons the final day excitement usually centred on which teams would be dropping out of the Premier League.  This season, however, there is the contest between the two Manchester clubs to win the title, there is the battle between Bolton and QPR for the Premier League lives but there will also be a very intriguing battle for the Champions League.  There are sure to be twists and turns on Sunday with the final outcome continuing to be uncertain until after the Champions League Final in Munich on 19th May.

Spurs and Arsenal need to take care that they are not so focused on their own local rivalry that they overlook the north-eastern threat from Newcastle who could easily come up on the outside as they have over the past couple of months and snatch the cherished prize if the London clubs don't perform on the day.

Spurs and the FA Cup 6th Round

By the 6th Round of the FA Cup supporters of every club are aware that it is only two games away from the Wembley Final and nowadays it's only one win away from a trip to Wembley with the semi-finals being played there.  The the 6th Round has brought Spurs many memorable moments but also times of great disappointment as the hopes of Cup success have been dashed for another year. 

  

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

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One memorable occasion was in 1982 when Spurs as Cup holders were drawn to play at Stamford Bridge against 2nd Division Chelsea who had defeated European Champions, Liverpool, in the previous round.  Spurs in an all white strip with yellow socks and as the game progressed everything clicked for them. Chelsea had taken a first half lead but gradually Spurs started to show their superior class with Glenn Hoddle giving a master class of ball control.   It was only a matter of time before Spurs would score and it came when Steve Archibald poked the ball home after the Chelsea goalkeeper failed to hold a Hoddle free-kick.  Spurs immediately stepped up a gear and within ten minutes were 3-1 ahead.  The second goal was a masterpiece.   Hoddle and Micky Hazard cut through the Chelsea midfield with an exchange of passes and, after Hazard's flick had left them wrong-footed, Hoddle crashed a 25-yard drive past the goalkeeper.  Hazard then confirmed Tottenham's superiority with a coolly taken drive and although Chelsea pulled a goal back Spurs coasted home on a wave of possession football.  The performance was even greater as Spurs had to displaying their passing talent on a bare pitch with a very uneven bounce.

In 1901, with fewer teams in the competition, Spurs had already reached the semi-finals but in 1921 they were drawn at home against the FA Cup holders, Aston Villa.  Having had a favourable draw in the earlier rounds, this was the first occasion they had met opponents from the 1st Division.  The clubs had met at the similar stage (4th Round) a year previously when a Tommy Clay own goal had taken Villa through.  This time, Clay and Spurs took revenge and triumphed when right winger, Jimmy Banks, scored midway through the first half, following a run by left winger, Jimmy Dimmock. In his book, Jimmy Seed, the influential Spurs player of the time describes how Banks saved his blushes with the goal.  Seed admitted that on occasions, in big games, he would ‘freeze’ and in this game as Dimmock crossed the ball, that’s what happened.  However, Jimmy Banks sized up the situation and hit both Seed and the ball as best he could.  The ball hit his knee and ended up in the Villa goal.  A freak goal and another piece of good fortune to take Spurs closer to success.

That match was watched by a crowd of 51, 991 spectators at White Hart Lane but it falls well short of the record attendance for the ground which was achieved in 1938.  On 5th March, 1938, Spurs’ record crowd of 75,038 spectators witnessed the team lose by a single goal to Sunderland.  At that time Spurs were in the 2nd Division while Sunderland were from the 1st Division.  However, a controversial refereeing decision denied Spurs an opening goal.  A Colin Lyman shot beat the goalkeeper but Jack Gibbons following up to make sure the ball went in, handled and although the referee gave the goal, a linesman flagged for handball and the goal was disallowed.

In 1961, however, the roles were reversed and the 6th Round draw took Spurs to Roker Park to meet Sunderland who were in the 2nd Division and their young team came closest to ending that season’s all conquering Spurs team’s dream of the ‘Double.’  By the end of that game Spurs were hanging on for a draw.  Cliff Jones had given Spurs the lead after nine minutes with a header from a partially cleared corner.  Bobby Smith hit the post just before half-time, but then the famous ‘Roker Roar’ lifted the home team and they equalised at the start of the second half.  Sunderland pressurised Spurs to the final whistle and tested them to the limit but where weaker teams would have succumbed Danny Blanchflower galvanized Spurs who held out for the replay.  It was a relieved Spurs team who prepared for the replay the following Wednesday and having escaped with a draw, they made no mistakes this time.  Sunderland had had their day and now it was time for Spurs to show their superiority.  Fans had queued for ten hours to get in and they saw Spurs sweep majestically into the semi-final.  Spurs were three ahead by half-time with goals from Les Allen, Bobby Smith and Terry Dyson.  After 65 minutes Dyson scored his second and five minutes later Dave Mackay completed the scoring.  Burnley awaited in the semi-finals.

In 1962, Spurs had to meet Aston Villa.  Spurs had beaten them 2-0 at Villa Park the previous season in the 5th Round and with home advantage recorded the same score this time.  In a typical cup-tie, in slippery conditions due to constant rain, Spurs hit the post twice during the first half, with shots from Terry Medwin and Jimmy Greaves.  However, Villa defended resolutely and the game remained scoreless but sixty seconds in the second half changed all that.  In the 47th minute, Danny Blanchflower scored with a low shot and a minute later, Jones headed home a cross from Greaves.

Second Division, Birmingham City were Spurs 6th Round opponents in 1967.  A visit to the Midlands saw Spurs held to a goal-less draw as the home team battled heroically to ensure Spurs could not play their natural game.  The Spurs defence also had be alert to thwart Birmingham and Pat Jennings had to make a number of important saves.  In the replay, order was restored and Jimmy Greaves threw off the shackles that had been imposed on him in the first game to score twice in the second half.  Terry Venables had scored two early goals and Alan Gilzean made it three before half-time.  Greaves’ brace and a final goal from Frank Saul completed the scoring after the interval and took Spurs to a meeting with Nottingham Forest.

In 1981, the draw was favourable to Spurs, a home game against Exeter City from the Third Division. Spurs couldn’t have been more delighted and were looking towards the semi-finals and beyond. Surely, a team with Perryman, Hoddle, Ardiles, Archibald, Crooks and Georgio Mazzon would have too much class for the lower Division team.  However, it took two goals from the central defenders to take Spurs into the semi-finals.  Exeter made Spurs fight all the way but two moments of Glenn Hoddle magic created the goals for Spurs.  Firstly, a Hoddle cross enabled Graham Roberts to score his first goal for the club and then from his free-kick Paul Miller scored after the goalkeeper had made a mistake.

The two recurring themes from the 1991 Cup triumph are Spurs’ worsening financial situation and Paul Gascoigne.  As the months passed so Spurs’ future outlook grew bleaker by the day but the one bright spot was the FA Cup and Paul Gascoigne’s ability to overcome injury worries and continue to amaze with his outstanding performances.  The 6th Round opponents were Notts County at White Hart Lane and if Spurs were expecting an easy victory over the 2nd Division side, they must have been in a state of shock when County took the lead.  Nayim scored to bring Spurs level and then a winner from the one and only, Paul Gascoigne, took Spurs to a semi-final tie against Arsenal.

Dismissal at the 6th Round is particularly disappointing as supporters watch other teams progress to the ‘big’ games of the semi-final and possibly the Final with all the added expectancy and media coverage that accompanies these games.  Reviewing Spurs’ games at this stage of the competition, it is surprising to find that many have a claim to recognition.  The 6th Round experience in 2005 took them to Newcastle and after conceding an early goal Spurs set about rectifying the situation but a certain referee managed to deny Spurs’ claims for at least two penalties and disallowed a goal which would have provided Spurs with the chance to bring the game back to White Hart Lane.  Undeserved defeat in such circumstances brings such frustration and disappointment.

An unexpected hero emerged from the five goal thriller at Upton Park in 2001 when Sergei Rebrov showed why Spurs had spent their record transfer fee to sign him.  His two goals and one from Gary Doherty gave George Graham’s team a thrilling victory and another chance to play Arsenal in the semi-finals.  Everything was up-beat at Tottenham after that win but behind the scenes all was not well and within seven days Graham was gone with Glenn Hoddle to be his eventual successor.

In 1999, the 6th Round draw took Spurs to Barnsley where they had lost in a 5th Round Replay twelve months earlier.  This time a David Ginola inspirational run and goal was sufficient to overcome the side that had suffered relegation at the end of the previous season.

In 1993 Spurs had to visit Manchester to play City and it was a memorable game, not just because Spurs won, but because of the football that Spurs played, the hat-trick scored by Nayim and the fact that the game had to be stopped due to a pitch invasion by the City fans.  City went into the lead but Spurs were ahead at half-time through goals from Nayim and Sedgeley.  In the second half Spurs took control with Nayim scoring twice.  Spurs had a goal disallowed and direct from the free-kick City went the length of the pitch and scored.  This was the signal for the City supporters to spill onto the pitch.  The game was halted and the players left the pitch for thirteen minutes while the mounted police restored order.

Wimbledon often proved a difficult side for Spurs to beat as they disliked their long ball, high pressured play and often came off second best.  In 1987, however, David Pleat’s side showed their worth in a visit to Plough Lane and with application and commitment went through as the skill of Chris Waddle and Glenn Hoddle provided the goals to ensure the ‘Diamond Lights’ were still shining for the semi-final tie.

Season 1955-56 was disappointing for Spurs in the League but the team showed great endeavour in the Cup and their 6th Round game against West Ham was one to remember.  At White Hart Lane on a very heavy pitch Spurs came from 2-3 down to earn a draw after captain, Danny Blanchflower, moved centre-half, Maurice Norman, forward to assist the attack.  It worked and Spurs were grateful to Tommy Harmer (pen), Len Duquemin and George Robb for the goals. In the replay Harmer and Duquemin both scored as Spurs won 2-1.

Three years earlier Spurs were involved in a three game thriller against Birmingham City at this stage of the competition. They had already played five games to reach the 6th Round and in those days extra replays were arranged to determine who went through rather than curtail the process with penalties as happens today.  The original match was at St Andrews where Spurs earned a 1-1 draw with a goal from Les Bennett.  In the replay at White Hart Lane Bennett again scored and with Len Duquemin ensured a 2-2 draw after extra time.  Spurs won the third game with a goal from Sonny Walters and went on to meet Blackpool in the semi-final.

In 1995 Spurs gave one of the truly memorable performances of the decade in their 6th Round game against Liverpool. Having fought back at Southampton Spurs had a visit to Anfield as their reward but it wasn’t a ground with many happy memories for them and Spurs weren’t given much chance. Liverpool took the lead late in the first half but Teddy Sheringham managed to equalize right on half-time.  In the second half Spurs played much better and it looked set for a replay but with two minutes remaining, Sheringham put Jurgen Klinsmann through to score the winner.  A great result for Spurs as they went on to meet Everton in the semi-final.

Spurs last experience of the 6th Round was two years ago.  Having defeated Bolton Wanderers 4-0 in a replay at White Hart Lane after a 1-1 draw at the Reebox in the previous Round, Spurs again needed a replay to progress.  The first match at Craven Cottage was goalless but in the replay Spurs recovered from conceding an early goal to score three in the second half.  David Bentley came on as a substitute at half-time and within a minute had put Spurs ahead.  Roman Pavlyuchenko scored after an hour and six minutes later Eidur Gudjohnsen added the third.

Progress to the next round, at such a late stage of the competition, is so sweet while failure is so disappointing.  Spurs want to experience more of that sweet taste of success. 

COYS

Fulham 1 Tottenham Hotspur 3

Tottenham's rear-guard action in the second half, inspired by Brad Friedel, denied Fulham and so maintained their unbeaten run to move level on points with Chelsea in fifth place with one match in hand.  Spurs scored two first half goals through Gareth Bale and Aaron Lennon.  A late strike from substutute Jermain Defoe confirmed the victory and added to Fulham's anguish.

Tottenham's Smash and Grab Raid at the Cottage

Fulham 1 Tottenham Hotspur 3

Scorers: Kaboul (og)        Bale, Lennon, Defoe

Team: Friedel; Walker, Kaboul, King, Assou-Ekotto; Lennon (Sandro), Parker, Modric, Bale; Van der Vaart (Defoe), Adebayor.   Subs: (unused) Cudicini, Bassong, Corluka, Livermore, Pienaar.

Brad Friedel - 'Man of the Match'

Tottenham took the three points to maintain their eight game unbeaten run in the Premier League but after holding a two goal interval lead, it required all the expertise of 40 year old, Brad Friedel, to ensure they only conceded one goal as Fulham's second half onslaught threatened to grab at least a point and possibly all three.

It was an unchanged team from last week's win over QPR that Kevin Bond and Joe Jordan sent out, as they continued in charge as Harry Redknapp recuperates following his heart operation.  Vedran Corluka and Steven Pienaar, recovered from injury were among the substitutes.

In the early stages Fulham worked hard, preventing Tottenham from playing at their best and although they had the lion's share of possession, the home side didn't cause Spurs' defence too many problems.  From a corner after two minutes, Spurs had an early indication of the danger Fulham could be from set-pieces as Friedel had to react quickly to save a header at his near post.  After ten minutes, Kyle Walker was released on the right, he got to the goal line and pulled the ball back to Lennon whose cross was pushed out to Gareth Bale on the left.  His powerful goal bound shot deflected off the knee of Chris Baird.

The game continued in a similar pattern with Spurs coping with the limited threat caused by Fulham who caused Friedel few problems.  Spurs played controlled, passing football without ever reaching the levels achieved last week although on occasions they attacked at pace which caused Fulham concern.  Then on 45 minutes, as added time was being announced, Lennon, now on the left, ran at Baird, turning him right and left, and hammered a powerful left foot shot into the corner of the net to double Spurs' lead.

As with last week, a two goal advantage was looking comfortable for Spurs but Martin Jol obviously had a few harsh words with his players at half-time.  They were much more forceful and dominant with their possession in the second half and put immense pressure on the Tottenham defence at corners and set-pieces and with the use of the high ball.  Where, in the first period, Spurs had been able to play the ball out from defence, they had to play it long but it came straight back.  Fulham won a series of corners and eventually, after giving Spurs a few scares, they scored.  On 57 minutes, King rose to clear a corner, but his header struck the back of Younes Kaboul and into the net.  This encouraged Fulham so they piled on even more pressure.

Tottenham's midfield was being over-run, putting the defence under continuous pressure.  Jermain Defoe replaced Rafael Van der Vaart, so he missed the opportunity to score for a sixth consecutive League match.  This failed to lift the pressure and with fifteen minutes remaining Sandro was introduced in place of Lennon.  

Through the second half Friedel was called upon to make a number of vital saves, tipping over from a corner, saving from Dempsey, saving a long range effort from Baird and then in the final minutes it was all hands on deck as players threw themselves in front of the ball to block goal bound shots.  Friedel saved, King put in a crucial tackle, Luka Modric cleared off the line, Parker blocked a shot, Walker blocked the ball in an old-fashioned goalmouth scramble and was fortunate not to concede a penalty as he handled the ball in the ruck.  It was do or die for both sides, Parker could have had a penalty for a push in one of Spurs' few second half forays near the Fulham penalty area.

Then, to add salt to the wound, in the last minute of added time Bale broke on the left and headed for the corner flag.  He won a throw, took it quickly to Emmanuel Adebayor on the goal line who played it back for Defoe to score a third - a smash and grab raid from Tottenham.

Brad Friedel was the Man of the Match - Spurs were fortunate but they managed to hold out against the threat posed by the former Tottenham manager and players - Martin Jol, Bobby Zamora, Danny Murphy and Stephen Kelly - they gave their all but Spurs held on and go into the international break on a high.  Next match is against Aston Villa at White Hart Lane on Monday, 21st November at 8.05 pm.  I can't wait as I'll be there, my first Premier League game of the season.

Harry Redknapp has been told by his doctors to take five or six weeks to recover from his heart operation.  If he was watching the second half on television, he might need longer.  I, who have no heart problems, could feel my blood pressure raised after enduring the pounding Fulham gave Spurs in the second half.  Tottenham survived and so did I and I wish Harry a speedy recovery.

They Played for Tottenham and Fulham

From past masters Alan Mullery, Cliff Jones, Terry Dyson to today's more recent and less favourably remembered players - Danny Murphy, Stephen Kelly, Bobby Zamora and Simon Davies, they all played for both clubs.  Over the years there have been many other players who have performed admirably for both Spurs and Fulham.

As was the case with Queen's Park Rangers last week, there have been many players who have played for both Tottenham and Fulham, serving both clubs with distinction.

The player who is probably best loved by both sets of fans is Alan Mullery who started his career at Craven Cottage but was transferred to Spurs in March, 1964 for £72,500 as Bill Nicholson endeavoured to rebuild his 'Double' winning squad and replace some legendary players.  Mullery had the unenviable task of trying to fill the boots of Danny Blanchflower and he found it a difficult task in the early days.   the fans were slow to accept Mullery but in time through his hard work he gradually won them over and was part of the 1967 FA Cup winning time.  When Dave Mackay moved on in 1968, Mullery became captain and led them to success in the 1971 League Cup and the 1972 UEFA Cup win.

In season 1971-72 Mullery was out for a lengthy period through injury but when fit he couldn't displace John Pratt.  Mullery asked to go out on loan and returned to Fulham.  However, unexpectedly he returned to White Hart Lane when Pratt was injured ahead of the UEFA Cup semi-finals.  He captained the team in the 1st leg at White Hart Lane against AC Milan which Spurs won 2 - 1 and then led by example in the away game scoring an early goal as Spurs drew 1 - 1.  In the Final against Wolverhampton Wanderers, Tottenham brought a one goal advantage to the home game and it was Mullery who headed the goal to increase their lead.  In the process, he knocked himself out but battled on as Spurs held on for the draw which saw them lift the trophy.  Mullery enjoyed the celebrations around the pitch long after thel other players had departed to the changing rooms.  As it turned out, it was to be Mullery's last contribution in a Tottenham shirt as he was transferred to Fulham in the summer for £65,000.

He played for England on 35 occasions but unfortunately became the first England player to be sent off in a full England international in 1968 European Championships.

He played at Craven Cottage for four years and along with Bobby Moore they reached the FA Cup Final of 1975 with Mullery winning the Football Writers' Player of the Year award that season.

An inspirational player he went on to become manager at Brighton, Charlton Athletic, Crystal Palace and QPR.

Cliff Jones ended his career with Fulham having served Tottenham for over ten years.  He was a vital member of the successful Tottenham of the 1960s making over 400 appearances and scoring 176 goals.  In recognition of his service he was allowed to leave for a minimal fee of £5,000 even though he had scored six goals in eight appearances that season.  He had cost £35,000 when signed from Swansea town in February, 1958 but broke his leg during pre-season training.  He joined Fulham in October, 1968 and played for two seasons at Craven Cottage.  A fast, tricky winger who loved to take on his defender and who would courageously dive in where others feared to goal.  for a small player he could jump to amazing heights to head numerous goals against taller defenders.  A true Tottenham legend.

Terry Dyson joined Fulham in June, 1965 having spent eleven years at the club.  After years of waiting patiently he came into the team at the start of season 1960 - 61 and was a regular as Spurs won the League and FA Cup.  He missed out on the following season's FA Cup triumph but regained his place for the next year's European Cup Winners' Cup success when he was one of the heroes, scoring twice in the Final against Atletico Madrid.  He spent three years at Craven Cottage before joining Colchester United.

Ray Evans was a full back with Spurs who made his debut in 1969.  He had come through the youth system but found it difficult to get into the team ahead of Joe Kinnear.  He made numerous appearances in the early 1970s but Kinnear always returned for the crucial matches.  He was a member of the losing UEFA Cup losing team of 1973 - 74 but when Terry Neill replaced Nicholson as manager, Kinnear returned.  Evans went to Millwall and after two years moved on to Fulham where he spent two year before going to Stoke City but he had also played in America during the summer months.

John Lacy was part of the Fulham FA Cup team beside Bobby Moore and was signed for Tottenham by Keith Burkinshaw in the summer of 1978.  Needless to say his signing was overshadowed by the arrival of Ossie Ardiles and Ricky Villa.  He found it difficult in his first season in what was a tough year for Spurs, newly promoted to the 1st Division.  The signing of Paul Price and the development of Paul Miller and Graham Roberts put his place under threat and when he lost his place at the start of the start of the 1981 FA Cup run, he never regained it.  He left for Crystal Palace in the summer of 1984.

Fulham's Current Squad
Simon Davies joined Tottenham from Peterborough with Matthew Etherington and made over 120 appearances before joining Everton in 2005 for £4 million.  He became a regular player and was a member of the team which lost the 2002 League Cup Final to Blackburn Rovers.  He joined Fulham in 2007 and has made over 130 appearances for them.

Bobby Zamora joined Tottenham from Brighton but in eighteen months at the club his chances were limited and he only scored one goal, the winner in a Cup game against West Ham United.  He joined West Ham when Spurs signed Jermain Defoe in 2004.  After four years he joined Fulham.


Stephen Kelly came through Spurs youth scheme and impressed on oan at lower league clubs.  However, on returning to Tottenham, Kelly made only 37 appearances and the lack of first team football saw him transferred to Birmingham City in 2006.  After three years the Republic of Ireland international returned to London with Fulham.

The Fulham captain, Danny Murphy, made 170 appearances for Liverpool and joined Spurs in 2006 after two seasons with Charlton Athletic.  limited opportunities saw Martin Jol transfer him to Fulham eighteen months later.  He has now made over 130 appearances at Craven Cottage and is a very influential player in midfield for the club.

Martin Jol
The former Tottenham manager returned to Premier League football in the summer having been sacked by Tottenham in October, 2007.  He spent a season with Hamburg and then two years in Holland as manger of Ajax where in his first season he missed out on winning the League title by a single point.

Martin Jol arrived at Tottenham in the summer of 2004 as assistant to Jacques Santini.  After the unexpected departure of the manager the following October, he became manager and had a great affinity with the club wanting to emulate the success and style achieved by Bill Nicholson.  He managed to take the team to fifth place in the Premier League for two successive years, only missing out on fourth and Champions League football on the first occasion on the last day when his team were struck down by sickness and lost to West Ham. 

However, in the summer of 2007, the Tottenham board were seen in Spain talking to Juande Ramos.  While denying they had approached him to become manager, Jol's position had been undermined and after a poor start to the season, he lost his position and was replaced by Ramos.  It was a very unfortunate situation that Spurs had put themselves in and the removal of their manager was a rather unsavory episode in the club's history.  Jol split the fans, some siding with the Directors who felt he had taken the team as far as he could while others thought he should be given more time.  Obviously, Jol will be looking to his Fulham players to make a footballing statement on his behave and show that he still has much to offer as a manager.

Other players to spend time with both clubs included: Steve Archibald, Tony Parks, Phil Gray, Paul Mahorn and Paul Konchesky.

Older players were Alfie Stokes who had seven years at Tottenham and then went to Fulham for a season.  Harry Lowe spent a season at Fulham after over thirteen seasons at White Hart Lane.  Charlie Walters who was centre half in Tottenham's 1921 FA Cup winning team was transferred to Fulham in 1926 after seven years with the club.  Taffy O'Callaghan who played for Spurs in the 1920s and 1930s had two season with Fulham before the War.

From Hero to Zero in 50 Weeks

[first posted on Topspurs.com]

Martin Jol took charge of Spurs on 5th November, 2004 following the unexpected departure of Jacques Santini and two years later on 5th November, 2006 his team recorded the most impressive victory of his time as manager and raised expectations around White Hart Lane.

In his first full season in charge Martin Jol’s Spurs had finished fifth and only missed out on fourth place and the Champions League on the final day of the season when ‘Lasagnegate’ struck down many of the players before their game against West Ham at Upton Park. In reality, if Spurs had managed to resolve a persistent problem through the season of conceding injury time goals they would have been comfortable in the Champions League spot, ahead of Arsenal, well before the final game of the season.

However, throughout Jol’s time at White Hart Lane while his team had made steady progress they were unable to make an impression on the ‘top 4’ sides. Their best efforts had always fallen short – a draw or undeserving single goal defeat being the best they could achieve for all their endeavours.

So, their victory over Chelsea at White Hart Lane on 5th November, 2006 was so satisfying and a worthy reward for all the effort and the previous missed opportunities. It was taken as an indication that they had finally broken the Chelsea and ‘top 4’ hoodoo and would be a challenge to the top sides in the major competitions. Coming from a goal down, the win had been achieved with Spurs young ‘for the future’ players playing a prominent part – Michael Dawson and Aaron Lennon scoring the important goals. The tension throughout the final minutes was unbearable as Spurs held on to record victory and ‘Martin Jol’s Blue and White Army’ reverberated from all sides of the ground. The players and manager were being lauded as heroes and optimism was high among many supporters that finally Spurs had found a manager who could take the club on to greater things and follow in the footsteps of Bill Nicholson and Keith Burkinshaw.

It was looking good for Jol and Spurs – he had a good array of international players and the team were starting to play more attractive football with Dimitar Berbatov and Robbie Keane developing an understanding as strikers while the English strength in the team was prominent – Robinson, King, Dawson, Jenas, Lennon and Defoe. Following on from that win the team put together an impressive run of results through to the end of the year in League, Carling Cup and UEFA competition.

The climax of the season saw Spurs again claim fifth place in the League and a second season in the UEFA Cup. Martin Jol had achieved Spurs’ best back to back League finishes for twenty four years.

However, in the months from November to May questions had arisen about Martin Jol’s ability to take Spurs on to the next level which was seen as gaining a Champions League place and again it centred on his team’s performances and ability to take on and beat the top sides.

The first query arose when Spurs faced Liverpool at home in the final game of 2006. Having made White Hart Lane almost fortress-like with a good run of results and only one home defeat all season, Spurs succumbed rather timidly to a Liverpool side who showed greater determination and endeavour – it was a disappointing way to end 2006, a year which had seen Spurs make so much progress.

The next two months saw a downward turn in Spurs’ form – no League wins and only Cup success to keep the spirits up but defeat to Arsenal in the semi-final of the Carling Cup was another bitter disappointment. The ‘young’ Arsenal side had been two down in the first leg at White Hart Lane and Spurs seemed in a strong position but two second half goals for the visitors turned the tie and greatly increased Spurs’ difficulties for the second leg. Injury to Berbatov during the game had affected Spurs’ play and his unavailability for the second leg along with Lennon increased their problems. Eventual defeat in extra time left Spurs looking to the other Cups in hope of success.

A defeat at home in the League to Manchester United by four goals again raised doubts and rumours suggested that if Spurs lost their FA Cup tie at Fulham, then Spurs could be looking for a new manager. However, somewhat unexpectedly Spurs turned on an exciting display of football to win 4-0 and the manager was reprieved for the meantime.

The next meeting with a ‘top 4’ team saw Spurs visit Stamford Bridge in the FA Cup. At half-time Spurs were leading by two goals (3-1) and a semi-final place seemed a possibility. However, a determined Chelsea fight back saw them equalise and take the tie to White Hart Lane where they brought more heartache to the Spurs’ faithful.

The final disappointment came in the UEFA Cup where Spurs were undone in Sevilla by the award of an unwarranted penalty which gifted the home team an equaliser, enabling them to bring a one goal advantage to the second leg. However, within seven minutes the tie was effectively over as Juande Ramos’ side scored twice and although Spurs mounted a second half comeback to earn a draw, they had once again fallen short against a top side in a critical game.

Having qualified for Europe for a second season, any doubts about the manager seemed to be have been set aside during the summer as £40 million was spent on strengthening the team and many commentators were predicting a season which would see Spurs challenging for a top for place and even ousting Arsenal from that top group.

However, after opening the season with two uninspiring defeats, the concerns about the manager were brought into the public domain when directors of the club were seen in a hotel in Sevilla courting the manager of the UEFA Cup winners. Denials and statements were issued, Martin Jol was assured there was nothing sinister in the meeting and that his position was safe but the matter was never resolved and wouldn’t go away.

From that time in August Martin Jol knew that his days as Spurs’ manager were numbered. The players knew it, the supporters knew and with continuing media speculation on the back of poor results it was only a matter of time.

That time came fifty weeks after Jol was being hailed a hero following his side’s first success against a ‘top 4’ side and the first League victory over Chelsea since 1990. The match against Getafe in the UEFA Cup which had brought such exciting football to White Hart Lane last season, was the background to the manager’s departure. Rumours had circulated on the internet before the game that this was going to happen and during the match the spectators became aware of the situation and responded with a constant roar of support and appreciation for Martin Jol.

The deed has been done and it could have been handled so much better but while Juande Ramos has been installed as manager of Tottenham Hotspur, Martin Jol deserves credit for what he achieved at the club. He brought the club a respect that had long been missing from Tottenham Hotspur and he achieved more than any of his immediate predecessors and qualification for two successive UEFA Cup campaigns.

However, nothing is assured in football. Last year on the strength of that win over Chelsea it appeared that Martin Jol would be in post for a considerable period of time but in fact for Jol it went from ‘hero to zero’ and the dole in only fifty weeks.

Martin Jol's New Improved Tottenham

Martin Jol’s New Improved Tottenham

(from Logan's Column on www.Topspurs.com)

What a change! Whatever happened at the training ground in the days following the defeat at Sheffield United – it’s had the desired effect. That’s all that supporters have been looking for – a team that is committed, players who show they want to play for Spurs, players for whom winning matters and who are playing to their ability and in a style that is more akin to the Tottenham ‘way’.

Certainly, the three wins have greatly boosted the player’s confidence and raised the spirit within the team and the players are playing with a style and flair that many had despaired of ever seeing from them.

The players showed against Fulham that they were prepared to compete and took the goal scoring chances when they presented themselves. They carried this endeavour forward into the Everton game and played a skilful passing game that had Everton bewildered. It was only after the goal from their fortunate free-kick that Everton started to exert themselves. However, Spurs set aside their annoyance at that decision and showed resilience uncommon for Spurs’ teams and battled through the second half and became stronger through the final minutes as Jenas scored the winner.

The opening minutes against Bolton were unbelievable. Going into this game everyone knew how they expected Bolton to play and Spurs’ results showed that they have had great difficulty against them in recent seasons – only one win in eight games. Most supporters would have been expecting a very tight, competitive game with Spurs having to battle for any opportunity to play football against a very well organised team. They would have been grateful for a hard-earned win to maintain the momentum of the past week. However, in those opening minutes Spurs were a revelation, playing creative, exciting football that had Bolton reeling and in disarray as they found themselves three goals down within twenty minutes – the stuff that dreams are made of. Spurs continued to dominate and looked likely to add to their goal tally when Bolton were awarded a penalty and Robbie Keane was sent off.

Was the dream going to turn into a horrible nightmare? That thought must have been going through every Spurs supporter’s mind as they recalled how Spurs have folded in the past when put under constant pressure. Somehow, Spurs survived and got through to half-time without conceding another goal but they were under pressure and it wasn’t looking good. Could they hold out for the second half – an early Bolton goal was the fear, but Spurs showed early signs that they could take the Bolton pressure and be dangerous on the counter attack. Dimitar Berbatov caused Bolton constant problems and showed his class throughout the game – he always looked capable of scoring or setting someone else up for a goal. Spurs displayed their new found resilience and slowly minute by minute the half ticked away and, in fact, the Bolton goalkeeper was busier than Paul Robinson, so well had Spurs marshalled their defence to ensure they gave Bolton not a glimmer of hope that they could win. Then to add the final touch to a perfect day, Aaron Lennon scored the fourth goal in added time – one that Spurs fully deserved.

How has this change come about? The defence has been much tighter and Robinson has looked to be returning to his best form while the strikers have taken the goal scoring opportunities that have been on offer. Mido worked hard against Fulham while Berbatov returned and played well alongside Keane, working together for the team and providing movement that has made it easier to make chances and create space for other players. Berbatov’s movement and touch have been outstanding and displayed his real class – making him very difficult for any defender to play against.

The improvement at the back and upfront has been important but the biggest difference has been in midfield. For much of the season, Spurs have had a midfield which has lacked pace and movement. They have been very static and ponderous, neither providing cover for the defence nor supporting the strikers. Only Aaron Lennon can be excluded from this criticism as on many occasions his pace and trickery have been the only creativity within the team and if he was out injured or not performing well, the team had nothing else to offer. The return of Jermaine Jenas from injury has brought vitality to central midfield and he uses his pace both in defensive duties and to support from midfield and his four goals since returning have been invaluable. He was often criticised but in his absence supporters have discovered his importance to the team. Didier Zokora has finally started to show why Spurs signed him in the summer. It has taken him a long time to adjust to football in the Premiership and hindered by illness, only occasionally did we see his pace and strength to take players on – now he is prepared to do it more often and the two central midfield players are working well as a partnership. The play of Teemu Tainio has also added strength to the team – if only he could stay clear of injury to get a consistent run in the team. Although, still missing a natural left sided player, this combination of players has given a balance to the team that had previously been missing. Constant player rotation didn’t help the team develop a style of play or allow the players to develop an understanding of how to play together. Perhaps Martin Jol has settled on his best options and will stay with the side as much as possible, keeping future team changes to a minimum.

The players are now playing with a passion that was lacking earlier in the season. The success in the Carling Cup and in Europe was papering over the cracks of the poor league form and the lack of motivation when under pressure. Too often Spurs succumbed to heavy defeats through a lack of fight and determination – they were too ready to accept defeat when things weren’t going their way, the poor away results and their poor goal difference are evidence to that. In the past three games the Spurs players have shown more passion – encouraging and rebuking each other where previously whatever happened was just accepted without blame or comment. Such a competitive attitude is essential if the players are to perform to the true level of their ability and skill and must be maintained in the coming weeks with a number of difficult games in League, FA Cup and Europe.

Two weeks ago, pressure was mounting on Martin Jol as disgruntled supporters aired their grievances on the team’s failings – now, in the space of a week – a Cup win followed by six points in the Premiership and Spurs fans can’t wait for the next game – a trip to play troubled West Ham United. The same urgency, determination, endeavour and application that have been displayed in the past week will be needed there and in the subsequent games against Braga and Chelsea. A week can be a long time in football but if the lessons of the past few games aren’t taken into the coming games then the past week’s success and enjoyment will have been as nothing and Spurs will still be in a cycle of success and failure, going nowhere fast.