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 Blackburn Rovers

A record stating that Tottenham have won their last five matches against Blackburn Rovers is always a worrying statistic for a Spurs fan.  For most clubs that would be something to build on and boost confidence but for Spurs in their current fragile state it could become another burden too heavy to carry even against a relegation threatened Blackburn team who have  only won once in their last six Premier League matches.  Spurs, of course, have only one win in their last nine games.

Spurs Home League Record against Blackburn Rovers (inc PL)

P  47  W  30  D  7  L  10  For  110  Ag  60

Home Premier League Record

P  17  W  9  D  3  L  5  For  25  Ag  22

Spurs have won the last five games against Blackburn.

22nd Oct. 2011  PL  (a)  Won 2 - 1  Van der Vaart (2)

A goal in each half from Rafael Van der Vaary secured the points for Spurs at Ewood Park as they extended their unbeaten run to six matches.  Match Report

2nd Feb. 2011  PL  (a)  Won 1 - 0  Crouch

A headed goal by Peter Crouch after three minutes from a long diagonal cross by  Rafael Van der Vaart brought Spurs the win which enabled Spurs to complete the 'double' over their northern opponents.

Last Match at White Hart Lane

13th Nov. 2010  PL  (h)  Won 4 - 2  Bale (2), Pavlyuchenko, Crouch

Spurs were two ahead at the interval, having missed a penalty, and had added another two in the opening half hour of the second half.  Blackburn's late goals with one from current Spurs player, Ryan Nelsen, brought some respectability to the scoreline, although Spurs contributed to the goals with poor defensive play.

13th Mar. 2010  PL  (h)  Won 3 - 1  Defoe, Pavlyuchenko (2)

Jermain Defoe gave Spurs the lead on the interval.  Roman Pavlyuchenko scored a second ten minutes into the second half.  With ten minutes to go Rovers pulled one back through their former captain, Samba, but Pavlyuchenko restored Spurs' advantage five minutes later.

19th Dec. 2009  PL  (a)  Won 2 - 0  Crouch (2)

After a difficult first half, Crouch gave Spurs the lead on half-time.  Spurs battled in the second half to maintain their lead which Crouch increased with a good goal, with seven minutes remaining.

23rd Nov. 2008  PL  (h)  Won 1 - 0  Pavlyuchenko

A goal after ten minutes was sufficient for Spurs to take the three points as they recovered from the previous week's defeat at Fulham, their first defeat under Harry Redknapp.

28th Oct. 2007  PL  (h)  Lost 1 - 2  Keane (pen)

Martin Jol's sacking in midweek with Clive Allen in temporary charge and Juande Ramos waiting in the wings was the background to Rovers last win at White Hart Lane.  Robbie Keane had given Spurs an early second half lead from the penalty spot.  Blackburn drew level on the hour and took the points with a late goal from Samba.

10th May, 2007  PL  (h)  Draw 1 - 1  Defoe

The penultimate match of the season was played on a Thursday evening and the point took Spurs closer to European qualification.  Rovers went ahead in the first half but Defoe equalised with over twenty minutes remaining.  Spurs ended the season in fifth and a Europa League place.

5th Mar. 2006  PL  (h)  Won 3 - 2  Keane (2), Mido

Spurs were battling to take fourth place in the Premier League and two goals by Keane gave them the advantage in the first half but Rovers pulled a goal back before the interval.  They drew level as Spurs withstood a second half onslaught but took the points with a goal by Mido.  The match is remembered for Keane's first goal as he juggled the ball as he made his way in along the touch line before scoring.

14th May, 2005  PL  (h)  Draw 0 - 0

Spurs' hopes of a UEFA Cup place were dashed as they failed to beat a stubborn Blackburn side in the final match of the season.

8th May, 2004  PL  (h)  Won 1 - 0  Defoe

In what had been a difficult season with Spurs at one point fearing relegation, they won their last home match through an early Defoe goal.  David Pleat's spell as caretaker manager was coming to an end with Spurs having searched for a new manager from September when Glenn Hoddle was sacked.

11th May, 2003  PL  (h)  Lost 0 - 4

The final game of the season ended a poor period for Spurs who lost three of their last four matches, conceding 11 goals.  It was Teddy Sheringham's farewell game but disappointed fans showed their frustrations against Glenn Hoddle, the team and the Board with many throwing their season tickets on to the pitch at the end.

Memorable Home Match against Blackburn

16th April, 1964 1st Div.  (h)  Won 5 - 2  Greaves (2), Gilzean (3)

The first of the three Easter fixtures on Good Friday, saw Spurs win comfortably with the 'G'-men at their very best.  Jimmy Greaves and Alan Gilzean sharing the goals as Gilzean, signed the previous December, scoring his first hat-trick for the club.  Match report from the Daily Express.

This match was the fourth in a remarkable run of five home games at the end of the 1964 - 65 season when Spurs scored 25 goals, conceding 9.  They were undefeated at home throughout the season but won only once away from home.  In the final five matches they defeated Blackpool 4 - 1, Wolves 7 - 4, Liverpool 3 - 0, Blackburn 5 - 2 and Leicester 6 - 2.

In the third of the Easter games at Ewood Park on Easter Monday, Spurs lost 1 - 3, having lost by a single goal at Sheffield Wednesday on the Saturday - and the current players are feeling fatigue?

Tottenham 1 Norwich City 2

Tottenham's defeat at home to Norwich City has left their aspirations of qualification for next season's Champions League competition hanging by a thread.  Ahead of the match, it was in their own hands but defeat has left them looking for Chelsea and Newcastle to slip up in their final games.

Tottenham Hotspur 1 Norwich City 2

Scorers: Defoe            Pilkington, Bennett

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

Tottenham's objective, going into this game, was to take three points from a Norwich team who were comfortable in mid-table and sure of a second season in the Premier League having gained forty points.  Harry Redknapp made a number of changes to the team which struggled to break down a defensive minded Sunderland on Saturday.  Ledley King replaced William Gallas in central defence with Jake Livermore in central midfield with Luka Modric - Sandro dropping to the bench and Scott Parker not included.  Aaron Lennon started on the right wing with Louis Saha and Jermain Defoe as strikers.  Rafael Van der Vaart and Emmanuel Adebayor were among the substitutes.

In the opening minutes Norwich showed more attacking intention than Sunderland had in the ninety minutes at the Stadium of Light at the weekend.  They put the Spurs players under immediate pressure and looked to get forward quickly themselves.  Early attacks by Spurs saw Gareth Bale receive the ball from Luka Modric on the edge of the area but he was crowded out and then a good pass by Benoit Assou-Ekotto released Saha but his attempted cross was blocked.  This was followed by a shot from Saha following a pass from Defoe, which the goalkeeper saved with difficulty and a defender hacked clear.

On ten minutes, a slip by Ledley King let Norwich in but it was cleared with difficulty through the combined effort of Assou-Ekotto, Kyle Walker and Brad Friedel.  Spurs had been warned that the visitors attack would provide a threat but it was one they didn't take note of as three minutes later they were behind.  Poor defending again caused confusion and rushed attempts to clear.  Younes Kaboul and King didn't deal with the early danger and then Walker's hacked clearance ricochetted off King into the path of Pilkington who scored.

King was having a difficult time coping with the strength of Holt who was putting the defence under constant pressure.  Following the goal Norwich were quite comfortable and Spurs early impetus had gone.  It was not until the midway point of the half that Spurs started to make a greater impression as Bale ran from his own half and had a shot blocked for a corner.  Then good work on the right between Livermore and Walker saw a cross miss handled by the goalkeeper but no-one was on hand to take advantage.

Another quick break by Norwich caused danger for Spurs with a free-kick awarded against them which Friedel clawed away for a corner.  Norwich then threatened from a free-kick following the corner.  Central, on the edge of the area, the shot was blocked and Bale collected the ball and ran the length of the pitch to put in a dangerous cross which Defoe just failed to reach.

After half an hour Norwich made strong claims for a penalty as King struggled to cope with Holt - the referee possibly feeling that Holt was leaning on King as they fell.  Immediately, Spurs gathered the ball on halfway and Livermore's pass released Defoe who took the ball on and lifted it over the goalkeeper.

Norwich responded at once and Friedel had to save a shot at his back post following a free-kick.  The game was played at a furious pace as both teams tried to establish their supremacy.  In the final moments of the half, Kaboul had a header over from a free-kick but then was taken off, having injured himself as he landed, with Ryan Nelsen replacing him.

Adebayor replaced Saha at half-time but it was Norwich who started the brighter.  An early run by Lennon nearly created an opening for Bale but it was the visitors who were quicker to the ball and their strong running was continuing to cause the Spurs defence problems.

After fifty two minutes Spurs nearly went ahead.  A good passing movement brought Assou-Ekotto into the game, he linked well with Adebayor to get through on goal with only the goalkeeper to beat. As he tried to lift his shot over the goalkeeper, Ruddy managed to get a hand to it and away for a corner.  Bale then saw a shot blocked for a corner after a good run by Lennon but Norwich again caused confusion in the Spurs defence as they broke forward quickly and Johnston shot past with the open goal at this mercy.

Only rarely were Spurs threatening the Norwich goal but a good run by Modric  ended with Bale shooting against the bar after sixty three minutes.  Three minutes later Norwich were ahead and Spurs again paid the penalty for failing to stop Norwich's forward movement.  As the defence again back pedalled, Bennett was allowed time to run and shoot powerfully from the edge of the box, giving Friedel no chance.

For the rest of the match, Norwich had good possession and when they lost the ball they harried the Spurs player in possession so that they had no time on the ball to make a positive pass.  Only rarely did Spurs threaten with a Assou-Ekotto cross headed over by Bale being one of few highlights.  Ruddy was rarely troubled and it would have been no surprise if Norwich had added to their lead, so shaky was the Totenham defence.

Spurs lacked inspiration and any sign of fight to get back into the match and no player could impose themselves on it to make a difference or find a way of rescuing the situation.

Tottenham's Champions League aspirations lie almost in tatters - from a position a few weeks ago where they were in total control, so bad has been their recent performances and results that they are no longer assured of making the top four.  This result now gives Arsenal the advantage and provides encouragement to Chelsea and Newcastle that they can also move ahead of us.  Spurs' season has tailed off badly at a time when Arsenal and Newcastle have gained a momentum through an excellent run of result while Chelsea have progressed with an abundance of good fortune.

The consequences of failing to achieve the objective of Champions League qualification are far reaching for the club - the best players, Modric, Bale, Van der Vaart and Lennon are going to be tempted by other clubs with the guarantee of playing at the highest level while prospective signings will shun Tottenham's advances due to their inability to provide that opportunity.  With Harry Redknapp the obvious appointment for the England manager's post, White Hart Lane might have a number of new faces next season, if Spurs don't find a way to turn around this disappointing end to the season.  From a season of such promise, it is in danger of turning into a repeat of 1986-87 when it was a matter of so near yet so far from success.  Even FA Cup success, which at the present time is looking very unlikely, would not be any compensation for the lack of Champions League which for much of the season had appeared to be a nailed on certainty.

The coming weeks will tell if the Spurs players can find  a motivation to drive them on to a greater effort to make it become a reality.

Spurs' FA Cup Record Against Bolton

Spurs recent loss of form in the Premier League has brought a greater focus on the FA Cup, with the 6th Round home tie against Bolton Wanderers bringing the possibility of a trophy at the end of an exciting season another step closer.  A win is essential to end Spurs recent disappointing results and to set them up to retain third place in the League and to strive for possible Cup success at Wembley.

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

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Spurs and Bolton have been drawn together in the FA Cup on seven occasions.  Of the previous six, four have required replays but Spurs have progressed on four occasions.  This is the first time that they've been drawn to play in the 6th Round.

Last FA Cup Meeting:
The most recent meeting was two years ago in the 5th Round as Spurs progressed to the semi-final stages of the competition.

Feb. 2010  5th R. (a) Draw 1- 1  Defoe
Bolton took the lead after thirty five minutes at the Reebok but Jermain Defoe equalised after an hour.  Tom Huddlestone had a penalty saved which should have set Spurs up for a deserved win.

Replay (h) Won 4 - 0  Pavlyuchenko (2), Opp. o.g. (2)
With thoughts on Premier League survival, Bolton fielded a weaker team and Spurs progressed after Roman Pavlyuchenko started the scoring midway through the first half.  The Bolton goalkeeper helped the ball into his own goal, ten minutes before the interval.  Two minutes into the second half, Bolton's woes continued with a second own goal and Pavlychenko added a fourth three minutes from time.

First Meeting in FA Cup:
Jan. 1925  2nd R. (h) Draw 1 - 1  Seed
Both teams were in the 1st Division, Spurs were to finish the season in mid-table while Bolton were third.  The game was described in the following weekend's programme as, "one of the finest Cup struggles ever staged on our enclosure."  Bolton had taken the lead but Spurs, although playing into the wind, forced Bolton back and equalised through Jimmy Seed.

Replay (a) Won 1 - 0  Lane
Spurs were given little chance in the replay and although Bolton had more of the play, the Spurs goalkeeper, Fred Hinton, signed from Bolton the previous year had something to prove.  His display played a major part in Spurs progress thanks to a second half goal scored by centre forward, Billy Lane, his first for the club.

1934-35

Drawn together in the 5th Round, it took three matches to settle the tie.  Spurs were in the top flight that year but were to end the season at the foot of the table and be relegated after just two seasons in the 1st Division.  Bolton were in the 2nd Division and were to be promoted at the end of the year, the two clubs swopping places.

Feb. 1935 5th R. (h) Draw 1 - 1  W. Evans
Over 70,000 spectators were in White Hart Lane - 70,347 which at the time set up a new record for the ground.  Willie Evans had given Spurs the lead but Bolton drew level with a shot from forty yards.

Replay (a) Draw 1 - 1  G. S. Hunt
The match played on a slippery, rain-soaked surface was a gruelling affair.  George Hunt who later became a Bolton player gave Spurs the lead but Bolton again drew level and with no more goals after extra time, a second replay was needed.

2nd Replay (at Villa Park) Lost 0 - 2
Bolton were comfortable winners at Villa Park on the following Monday, the three games having been played in the space of ten days, with a League game played the previous Saturday, a home draw with Sunderland.

1947-48

Spurs were still in the 2nd Division, having failed to win promotion following their relegation in 1934-34, while Bolton had retained their top flight status over that period.

Jan. 1948 3rd R. (a) Won 2 - 0 (aet)  Duquemin (2)
In an entertaining game, there were no goals during the ninety minutes.  To avoid unnecessary replays and absenteeism from work in those early post-war years, extra time was played that season at the end of the first game.  Most of the excitement came in extra time as Spurs made their greater craft and understanding count.  Len Duquemin scored with a tremendous shot having run twenty yards with the ball.  Bolton tried to get level but were susceptible to Spurs on the break and the secod came in the final minute, Duquemin almost on his knees to head it into the goal.  For Spurs it was the first step on their way the semi-final, their first since 1922. 

1977-78

Thirty years later both clubs were battling to win promotion from the 2nd Division and at the end of the season, both were successful, Bolton as Champions and Spurs in third after a nail-biting climax to the season.


Jan. 1978 3rd R. (h) Draw 2- 2  Hoddle, Duncan
Replay (a) Lost 1 - 2 (aet)  Taylor (pen)

2001-02
Bolton visited White Hart Lane on three occasions in two months, lost all three and conceded thirteen goals - a 3 - 2 loss in the Premier League, followed by a six goal defeat in the Worthington Cup, Les Ferdinand scoring a hat-trick, and a four goal defeat in the FA Cup.

Feb. 2002 4th R. (h) Won 4 - 0  Anderton (pen), Iversen, Etherington, Opp. o.g. 
Spurs, under Glenn Hoddle, were in a purple patch of Cup results, a few weeks away from the final of the Worthington Cup.  Two goals in each half saw Spurs coast through with Matthew Etherington scoring his first goal for Spurs.  Unfortunately, the good run of Cup results was brought to an abrupt halt by Blackburn Rovers in the Final at Cardiff.

Spurs v Cheltenham Town FA Cup 3rd Round: Report

Watford v Spurs FA Cup 4th Round: Report

Stevenage v Spurs 5th Round: Report

5th Round Replay: Report

Spurs League Record at Everton

In spite of losing at Goodison Park last season, in comparison with other grounds, Spurs away record against Everton is one of the is one of their better Premier League records.  Spurs visit Everton in need of a win to bring an end to a run of four away League games without a win, since their two goal success at Christmas.

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 Last season saw Everton end a run of six seasons without a win over Spurs at Goodison Park.  It was only their third home win of the Premier League era with Spurs having won there on seven previous occasions, with nine draws.  Tottenham's good form at Goodison Park coincides with the start of the Premier League in August, 1992 as their previous League success there had been back in 1984.

Spurs League Record at Goodison Park

P  74  W  17  D  26  L  31  For  82  Ag  109

Away Premier League Record against Everton

P  19  W  7  D  9  L  3  For  20  Ag  16

Last Season's Match:

Jan. 2011  PL  Lost  1 - 2  Van der Vaart

Everton won their home game against Spurs for the first time since April, 2004.  Louis Saha had given Everton the lead after three minutes as he troubled the Spurs defence with his pace and direct running.  Rafael Van der Vaart equalised within eight minutes but the loss of Gareth Bale after an hour was a setback for Spurs.  Everton scored a deserved winner with fifteen minutes remaining.

Previous League Results at Goodison Park  

Dec. 2009  PL  Draw 2 - 2  Defoe, Dawson

Jermain Defoe saw his injury time penalty saved, so denying Spurs of all three points.  Spurs had taken the lead two minutes after the interval through Defoe.  Michael Dawson added a second after an hour and the points looked secure.  A late rally from Everton brought them level after scoring twice in eight minutes - Saha scoring the first on 78 minutes.    

May, 2009  PL  Draw 0 - 0

Spurs had the better of the first half but Everton showed greater endeavour after the interval but neither side could find a goal.

Jan. 2008  PL  Draw 0 - 0

Jonathan Woodgate made his Spurs debut.

Feb. 2007  PL  Won 2 - 1  Berbatov, Jenas

Dimitar Berbatov had given Spurs a first half lead but Everton scored just before half-time.  Jermaine Jenas scored the winner with only a minute remaining.  

Apr. 2006  PL  Won 1 - 0  Keane (pen)  

This was an important win as Spurs battled to hold on to fourth place.  Keane scored with a first half penalty and Spurs held on quite comfortably although a late injury to Ledley King took the gloss off the win.  

Oct. 2004  PL  Won 1 - 0  Pamarot

A hard-working defensive display ensured Spurs kept another clean sheet in Jacques Santini's short reign.  An early second half header from Noe Pamarot gave the team something to battle for and they held out to take the points.  

April, 2004  PL  Lost 1 - 3 Carr

Everton were two ahead inside twenty five minutes and three up by the interval.  Stephen Carr's goal with fifteen minutes remaining was little more than a consolation.

Aug. 2005  PL  Draw 2 - 2  Etherington, Ferdinand

The opening match of the season saw Spurs behind at the interval.  They scored twice in eleven minutes midway through the second half but Everton levelled with nine minutes remaining.

Start of the Premier League era

Feb. 1993  PL  Won 2 - 1  Mabbutt, Allen, P.

Spurs won their first game at Goodison since August, 1984.  it was to prove a good omen for Spurs as they would go on to experience their best period of results against Everton.

Mar. 2004  PL  Won 1 - 0  Sedgley

Previous Win in 1st Division

Aug. 1984  1st Div.  Won 4 - 1  Falco, Allen, C. (2), Chiedoze

The perfect start to the season, an opening day success for new manager, Peter Shreeves (or Shreeve).  By the end of the season, however, it was Everton who were celebrating as title winners, with Spurs in third.

Christian Gross' Favourite Ground

There's not much positive that can be said about Christian Gross' short time  at Tottenham but he did manage to win both his first and last games as manager - victories at Goodison.  He must have left Goodison Park after that first game at the end of November,1997 thinking that managing in the Premier League wasn't going to be a problem.  He had overseen a two goal win with goals from Ramon Vega and David Ginola.  A week later Chelsea introduced him to the realities of English football.

The following August, a goal from Les  Ferdinand gave Spurs their first win of the season after defeats at Wimbledon and at home to Sheffield Wednesday, and he must have left Goodison singing, "Can we play you every week."  His time at Spurs, however, was nearly up and during that international break he was removed from post.

It is to be hoped that Spurs can maintain their Premier League supremacy over Everton who have shown a resurgence in recent weeks and will provide a sterner test than they did at White Hart Lane in January.

They Played for Spurs and Everton: Here

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.

Tottenham 1 Manchester United 3

Spurs horrendous record against Manchester United continues and with it the gap between third and fourth is reduced to just four points.  Tottenham were looking to show a positive reaction to last week's defeat but having dominated United for much of the match, gave away three goals with poor defensive work.

Tottenham 1 Manchester United 3

Scorers: Defoe                                Rooney, Young (2)

Team: Friedel; Walker, Kaboul, King, Assou-Ekotto; Lenon (Rose), Sandro (Kranjcar), Livermore, Modric; Saha (Defoe), Adebayor  Subs: (unused) Cudicini, Dawson, Nelsen, Giovani

Tottenham, The Glory-Glory Game

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For the second week running, Spurs have spent the last twenty minutes of a game trying to avoid a three goal deficit turning into a nightmare result.  At least today, Jermain Defoe managed to pull one back but it was way too late to make any difference.

Once again, Spurs started an important game without key players through injury or illness.  Scott Parker was suspended but Jake Livermore and Sandro worked hard and did well to dominate United's experienced partnership of Paul Scholes and Michael Carrick.  Rafael Van der Vaart was injured and Gareth Bale having been passed fit was absent through illness.  Obviously, with Bale out, Spurs had lost one of their main threats and United will have smiled with satisfaction.  Aaron Lennon returned and certainly was a constant problem to the United defenders - Phil Jones doesn't look as composed at full-back when faced with a pacy winger, just how would he have coped with Bale?

Manchester United opened in a composed fashion but Spurs quickly showed they were looking to improve on last week's result and performance in a controlled way, gradually building up possession and pressure.  For much of the half United were hemmed back into their own half.  Louis Saha and Emmanuel Adebayor tried shots from distance but lacked power.  A poor kick out by the goalkeeper presented Adebayor with an opportunity to run at the defence and he forced the goalkeeper to atone for his error with a good save low to his left.

United struggled to cope with Lennon and when Jones failed to get in a tackle in the area, Lennon progressed from the left and found Saha whose shot was goalbound but hit Adebayor standing on the goal line with two defenders on the ground.  As the ball fell it hit his arm before he back heeled it into the net.  The referee disallowed the goal for handball.  In the strictest sense that was correct but Adebayor hadn't used his arm to control the ball and he couldn't get out of the way of it.  Another unfortunate decision for Spurs but a let off for United who then took advantage of poor marking at a corner in the final minute of the half to take an undeserved lead.  Kyle Walker who was marking Rooney gave him too much time and space to get in  front of him to head the ball in.

The second half continued much as the first with Spurs building up the pressure on United.  Livermore had a good shot which took a slight deflection off Saha saved by the goalkeeper low to his right.  A United defender hacked the ball away for a corner.  A free-kick by Benoit Assou-Ekotto clipped the top of the crossbar and Ferdinand put in a last ditch tackle on Adebayor in the penalty area.

Almost immediately, on the hour, at the other end, Modric lost his man at a throw in and the ball across goal was hammered back into the net, through a ruck of players, by Ashley Young from an acute angle.  Spurs had gifted United another goal and eight minutes later it was three as Young was allowed to run at goal and line up a shot which he curled into the net from twenty yards with no-one closing him down.  All three goals came about through poor defensive play by Spurs and should have been prevented.

For the rest of the game Spurs were again trying to avoid embarrassment. There was no indication of a comeback and Defoe's goal came from a misplaced pass by a United defender.  Defoe picked the ball up and shot home from twenty yards with two minutes remaining.

United again punished Spurs for defensive mistakes and claimed their three points.  Spurs have no idea how to cope with United's winning mentality.  It is not a great United team this season but they certainly know how to win games.

Spurs have a number of failings which is making it very difficult for them: 

• the inability to capitalise on corners and free-kicks
• the inability to mark at set-pieces
• the ability to make players look good - Young has only scored two PL goals this season, yet scored twice today, Walcott hadn't scored at the Emirates in fourteen months but scored twice last week and similarly, Rosicky hadn't scored for ages but also managed to get one last week. 

As expected, these last two games have had a major bearing on determining Spurs focus for the rest of the season - third place in the Premier League which guarantees a place in the group stages of the Champions League and a win in the FA Cup.

It was at this time last year that Spurs season tailed off so it is essential that the same isn't allowed to happen again.  Last year, the excuse was made that the players were exhausted from too many games but this year they have been used very sparingly in both Europe and the Cup competitions.  Harry Redknapp needs to put thoughts of England out of his mind and ensure a result against Stevenage and at Everton next weekend to put Spurs exceptional season back on track.

Spurs Home Record Against Manchester United

Spurs go into their match against Manchester United knowing that they haven't won a game in any competition against United since 2001, a total of 25 matches.  In the Premier League era Spurs have a very poor record against the traditional top 'four' teams of United, Chelsea, Arsenal and Liverpool.  In recent years they have managed to bring to an end some shocking sequences against the other three but United have proved to be a continuing stumbling block. 

Home League Record against United:

P  74  W  25  D  25  L  24  For  120  Ag  99

Home PL Record:

P  19  W  3  D  5  L  11  For  21  Ag  32  

Looking at the overall home League record suggests there will be only one result, an away win to level the statistics out at 25 each with United, in the process, scoring their 100th League goal at White Hart Lane.


The horrendous record in Premier League games in recent years has done much to improve United's overall record against Spurs, with only three home wins and eleven defeats.
 
The Last Win
May, 2001 PL (h) Won 3 - 1  Korsten (2), Ferdinand
It was the final game of the season, United were already Champions while Spurs under Glenn Hoddle managed to finish the season with a win.  Spurs went ahead after seventeen minutes when Willem Korsten scored with a dipping shot from twenty yards after the ball fell to him from a corner.  United were level after five minutes, Paul Scholes, but two second half goals from Korsten and Les Ferdinand brought Spurs' season to a successful conclusion.  United were under strength as were Spurs due to injuries - but after nine games in charge, Glenn Hoddle's team finished the season in tenth position.
Team: Sullivan; Carr, Doherty, Gardner (Perry), Young; Korsten, Davies, Clemence, Leonhardsen, Etherington (Piercy); Ferdinand 

It was Looking So Good
The following September when United returned to White Hart Lane by half-time it was looking as if Spurs were going to have a memorable result.  By the end it was unforgettable but for all the wrong reasons.
Sept. 2001 PL (h) Lost 3 - 5  Richards, Ferdinand, Ziege
Dean Richards making his Tottenham debut put Spurs ahead after fifteen minutes, heading in from a corner.  It got even better when Ferdinand increased the lead ten minutes later.  On half-time, Ziege headed home following a flowing Spurs movement.  Perfect, or so it seemed.  The one thing Spurs didn't want to do was concede an early second half goal - they did, within the opening minute.  Suddenly, there were doubts and United completed the turnaround by scoring on another four occasions.

Last Season

Jan. 2011 PL (h) Draw 0 - 0
Spurs were disappointed to take only a point from the game against United who were top of the Premier League but such is the progress that Spurs have made in recent seasons, that United were satisified with the point and were content to use up time in any way they could.

Recent Results

Sept. 2009 PL (h) Lost 1 - 3  Defoe
Spurs had had the perfect start to the season under Harry Redknapp, four wins from the first four Premier League matches.  They also had the best start to this game, going ahead inside a minute through Defoe.  From then on United used all their vast European experience to bully Spurs out of the game and moaning constantly in the ear of the referee, even over decisions that went their way.  They drew level after twenty five minutes when Ryan Giggs scored from a free-kick for a foul by Palacios who was booked. He then was in danger of receiving a second card which United did their utmost to cause and was substituted at half-time.  Before the interval, however, United took the lead and although Scholes was sent off, Rooney added a third as he once again terrorised the Tottenham defenders.

Dec. 2008 PL (h) Draw 0 - 0
Heurelho Gomes produced a number of important saves to ensure Spurs took a point from this game.

Feb. 2008 PL (h) Draw 1 - 1 Berbatov
Spurs were foiled once again by United, the team who never know when they're beaten.  Berbatov gave Spurs the lead midway through the first half and Spurs looked like taking the three points, even though there had been a few close calls in the final minutes.  In the fourth minute of added time, United won a corner and Tevez got in front of Dawson to earn them a point and once again deny Spurs.

Memorable Matches (from a Spurs viewpoint)
Jan. 1996  PL Won 4 - 1 Sheringham, Campbell, Armstrong (2)

A great way to start a new year - live on television and convincingly defeating the League leaders and eventual Champions.  It was probably one of the best results during Gerry Francis’ managerial reign. 

Teddy Sheringham scored the first and although United equalised, Sol Campbell scored before half-time and then two goals from Chris Armstrong sealed Spurs victory.  Both teams had injury problems but Spurs overcame them much better although United’s keeper Schmeichel was injured in the warm up and had to be taken off at half-time.

 

May, 1987 1st Div (h) Won 4 - 0  Thomas, M. (2), Allen, C. (p), Allen, P.

David Pleat's team, in their final home game of the season, ahead of the FA Cup Final, had an emphatic win over United.  Spurs finished the season in third while United were eleventh.

Oct. 1965 1st Div. (h) Won 5 - 1  Johnson, Clayton, Gilzean, Greaves, Robertson

This game is remembered for the score line, for the fact that all five Tottenham forwards scored and for an outstanding goal  by Jimmy Greaves.  He picked the ball up inside the United half, ran at the United defence, going past a number of defenders before rounding the keeper to tap the ball into an empty net - a classic Greaves goal!   All five forwards scored that day – the other goals coming from Jimmy Robertson, Alan Gilzean, Eddie Clayton and Neil Johnson making only his third appearance.

Amazingly and unfortunately for Spurs, the return game in December also ended 5-1 to the home team. 

 

With Spurs increasing injury list, including doubts over Gareth Bale's fitness for this game, they will find it difficult to extend their run of twenty four matches since suffering consecutive Premier League defeats - in fact, since the beginning of the season when they lost to United and City.  After last week's disappointing result and performance, omitting the exciting opening twenty five minutes, Spurs really need a good result to strengthen their grip on third place, the title race having moved beyond them.  Any other result is going to bring doubts and be an encouragement to the chasing pack.  How Spurs recover from last weekend, will give an indication of the team's prospects for the rest of the season. 

 Tottenham The Glory-Glory Game Now Available - Cost: £15.00.

 

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Spurs' Penalty Record - Hit or Miss

In the days of Jimmy Greaves Spurs never seemed to miss a penalty but in recent times Tottenham have struggled to find a consistent penalty taker since Robbie Keane had a fairly successful period up to 2005.  Since then various players have had the opportunity from the spot but their success rate has been rather 'hit and miss'.

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Jimmy Greaves

Most Spurs fans hide behind their hands when Spurs are awarded a penalty, convinced that they're going to miss.  This is Tottenham's penalty record since 2005 to see if it's really as bad as we all think and to see if the missed penalty has had an effect on the subsequent result of the match.

Note: Penalty scored is in bold/ in blue italics for a miss 
Score at time of penalty award is in brackets after the result with the home team's score first 
Penalty shoot-outs have been omitted: Tottenham's Penalty Shoot-out Record

2011 - 12
*Dec.  2011  PL v Stoke City (a)  Adebayor  Lost 1 - 2  
                                        (Score at time of penalty award 0 - 2)  Report
*Nov. 2011  EL  v PAOK Salonika (h)  Modric  Lost 1 - 2  (0 - 2)    Report
Nov. 2011  PL  v West Bromwich Albion (a)   Adebayor  Won 3 - 1  (0 - 1)  
                                                [Penalty saved but Adebayor scored from rebound]   Report
*Oct. 2011  PL  v Newcastle United (a)  Van der Vaart  Draw 2 - 2  (0 - 0)    Report
Aug. 2011  EL  v Hearts (h)  Kane  Draw 0 - 0  [Saved]   Report

2010 - 11
*May, 2011  PL  v Liverpool (a)  Modric  Won 2 - 0  (0 - 1)
Feb. 2011  PL  v Bolton Wanderers (h)  Van der Vaart  Won 2 - 1  (1 - 0) 
[Missed with re-take having scored with first attempt and from the first penalty awarded a minute earlier] 
*Feb. 2011  PL  v Bolton Wanderers (h)  Van der Vaart  Won 2 - 1  (0 - 0)
Nov. 2010  PL  v Liverpool (h)  Defoe  Won 2 - 1  (0 - 1)  (Missed)
Nov. 2010  CL  v Werder Bremen (h)  Bale  Won  3 - 0  (2 - 0)  [Saved] 
*Nov. 2010  PL  v Arsenal (a)  Van der Vaart  Won 3 - 2  (2 - 1)
Nov. 2010  PL  v Blackburn Rovers (h)  Pavlyuchenko  Won 4 - 2  (1 - 0)  [Missed]
*Sept. 2010  CL  v FC Twente (h) Pavlyuchenko  Won 4 - 1  (2 - 1)
*Sept. 2010  CL  v FC Twente (h) Pavlyuchenko  Won 4 - 1  (1 - 0) 
Sept. 2010  CL  v FC Twente (h) Van der Vaart  Won 4 - 1  (0 - 0)  [Saved] 
*Sept. 2010  PL  v Wolverhampton Wanderers (h)  Van der Vaart  Won 3 - 1  (0 - 1)
*Aug. 2010  CL  v Young Boys Berne (h)  Crouch  Won 4 - 0  (3 - 0)

2009 - 10
*Apr. 2010  PL  v Chelsea (h)  Defoe  Won 2 - 0  (0 - 0)
Feb. 2010  FAC  v Bolton Wanderers (a)  Huddlestone  Draw 1 - 1  (1 - 1)  [Saved]
Jan. 2010  FAC  v Leeds United (h) Defoe  Draw 2 - 2  (0 - 0)  [Saved]
*Jan. 2010 FAC  v Peterborough United (h)  Keane  Won 4 - 0  (3 - 0) (Last minute penalty)
Dec. 2009  PL  v Everton (a)  Defoe Draw 2 - 2  (2 - 2)  [Saved]  (Last minute penalty)
Oct. 2009  CC  v Everton (h)  Keane  Won 2 - 0  (1 - 0)  [Saved]
                                              [Penalty saved but Keane scored following a goalmouth scramble]
*Sept. 2009  PL  v Burnley (h)  Keane  Won 5 - 0  (0 - 0)                           

2008 - 09
*May, 2009  PL  v Manchester City (h)  Keane  Won 2 - 1  (1 - 1)  (86th minute penalty)
*Apr. 2009  PL  v Blackburn Rovers (a)  Keane  Lost 1 - 2  (0 - 0)
*Jan. 2009  FAC  v Wigan Athletic (h)  Pavlyuchenko  Won 3 - 1  (1 - 0)
*Dec. 2008  CC  v Watford (a)  Pavlyuchenko  Won 2 - 1  (1 - 0)

2007 - 08
*Feb. 2008  CC Final  v Chelsea (Wembley)  Berbatov  Won 2 - 1 (aet)  (0 - 1)   Report

*Feb. 2008  PL  v Derby County (a)  Berbatov  Won 3 - 0  (2 - 0)
*Jan. 2008  FAC  v Reading (h)  Berbatov  Draw 2 - 2  (1 - 1)
Dec. 2007  PL  v Reading (h)  Keane  Won 6 - 4  (4 - 4)  [Saved]
                                                                         [Penalty saved but Defoe scored from rebound]
Dec. 2007  PL  v Arsenal (a)  Keane  Lost 1 - 2  (1 - 1)  [Saved]
*Dec. 2007  UEFA Cup  v Anderlecht (a)  Berbatov  Draw 1 - 1  (0 - 1)
*Dec. 2007  PL  v Birmingham City (h)  Keane  Lost 2 - 3   (0 - 0)  (1st minute penalty)
Dec. 2007  PL  v West Ham United (a)  Defoe  Draw 1 - 1  (1 - 1)[Saved]  (Last minute penalty) 
*Oct. 2007  PL  v Blackburn Rovers (h)  Keane  Lost 1 - 2  (0 - 0)
*Oct. 2007  PL  v Aston Villa (h)  Keane  Draw 4 - 4  (2 - 4)

2006 - 07
May, 2007  PL  v Manchester City (h)  Defoe  Won 2 - 1  (2 - 1)  [Saved]
*Apr. 2007  PL  v Wigan Athletic (a)  Keane  Draw 3 - 3  (2 - 1)
*Apr. 2007  PL  v Reading (h)  Keane  Won 1 - 0  (0 - 0)
*Mar. 2007  FAC  v Chelsea (h)  Keane  Lost 1 - 2  (0 - 2)
*Mar. 2007 PL  v West Ham United (a)  Defoe  Won 4 - 3  (2 - 0)
*Nov. 2006  PL  v Blackburn Rovers (a)  Defoe  Draw 1 - 1  (1 - 0)
*Nov. 2006  PL  v Reading (a)  Keane  Lost 1 - 3  (0 - 0)
*Oct. 2006  PL  v Portsmouth (h)  Defoe  Won 2 - 1  (1 - 0)

2005 - 06
*Apr. 2006  PL  v Everton (a)  Keane  Won 1 - 0  (0 - 0)
*Mar. 2006  PL  v West Bromwich Albion (h)  Keane  Won 2 - 1  (1 - 1)  [89th minute penalty] 
*Dec. 2005  PL  v Birmingham City (h)  Keane  Won 2 - 0  (0 - 0)
*Dec. 2005  PL  v Portsmouth (h)  Mido  Won 3 - 1  (1 - 1)  [85th minute penalty]
Dec.  2005  Pl  v Sunderland (h) Keane  Won 3 - 2  (2 - 2)  [Saved]
Sept. 2005  PL  v Aston Villa (a)  Defoe  Draw 1 - 1  (1 - 0)  [Saved]

Statistics:
Over the past seven and a half seasons, Spurs have been awarded 52 penalties.  They have scored from 35 of them which is a success rate of 67.3%.

Over the past thirty months, however, that level of success has dropped to 54.2% with thirteen scored from 24 attempts.

Of the seventeen missed penalties, 14 have been saved by the goalkeeper with only three being off target.

During this period Spurs have been awarded more than one penalty in a game on two occasions:

Feb. 2011 v Bolton (h) PL (2) - 1 success

Sept. 2010 v FC Twente (h) (CL) (3) - 2 successes

Sometimes penalties seem to be awarded in batches -

• in November, 2010 Spurs were awarded penalties in four successive matches and only scored one, at the Emirates, but won all four games.
• in December, 2005 Spurs had three penalties in four games - scored two but again won all three games

The most vital penalty was probably scored by Dimitar Berbatov against Chelsea in the 2008 Carling Cup Final which levelled the score and took the game to extra time.

Late penalties (in last five minutes) to win the game: Spurs have had five chances to win a game through a late penalty - they have accepted the offer on three occasions.  Keane (twice) and Mido have been successful but Defoe has failed on two occasions in away games at Everton and West Ham United.

Three penalties have been missed but Spurs have managed to score from the rebound or in the ensuing scramble: Adebayor (at WBA), Keane (against Everton in Carling Cup) and Defoe saved Keane when he scored against Reading.

The longest successful strike rate from the penalty spot was from December, 2005 to April, 2007 when 11 successes were recorded - Mido (1), Defoe (3) and Keane (7).

Some of Jermaine Defoe's penalty misses occurred when he had come on as a substitute for Robbie Keane or Keane had already been taken off.

The longest unsuccessful run is two which has occurred on a number of occasions.

Dimitar Berbatov (4), Modric (2), Mido (1) and Peter Crouch (1) are the only players with a 100% record from the penalty spot.

Tom Huddlestone, Gareth Bale and Harry Kane failed to score in their only penalty attempt.

Roman Pavlyuchenko is the only player who has scored two penalties in one game.

[Thanks to Ossiebale on COYS who provided the details of the penalty misses and to SpursOdyssey match reports where I was able to check details and goal times.]

[As far as I am aware the information is accurate]