Spurs and the FA Cup Semi-Finals

It is now over twenty years since Tottenham last enjoyed the celebrations of winning an FA Cup semi-final.  There have been many trials and tribulations in that time but Spurs have fallen short at that vital stage even when firm favourites as in 2010 against Portsmouth.  In their lengthy history Spurs have reached this stage of the competition on eighteen occasions, winning on nine occasions and for most of those successes the result was well deserved with Spurs winning comfortably. However, of the nine unsuccessful attempts to reach the Final, there has often been a sense of injustice as Spurs have been at the wrong end of some dubious decisions. 

Spurs and the FA Cup

Semi-Finals 1901 – 2010

Spurs FA Cup Semi-Final Record
As a Southern League side Spurs had progressed to the 1901 FA Cup semi-final having disposed of the Cup holders, Bury, and the only other surviving non-League side, Reading, in previous rounds. First Division, West Bromwich Albion at Villa Park were Spurs next opponents while Sheffield United and Aston Villa contested the other semi-final.  Although the game was like a home game for Albion, Spurs took thousands of spectators to the Birmingham venue.

The Spurs’ hero was Sandy Brown who scored all four goals in a comprehensive win.  Brown had scored in every round of the Cup and now had a total of twelve goals in the competition.  Spurs were very much the under-dogs and all of the Spurs’ players deserved credit for this performance. Although the game was scoreless at half-time Spurs had more of the play and from the time that Brown headed the first goal just after the restart from a centre by John Kirwan, there was no doubting the result.  He scored twice more in the next twenty minutes – his second from a corner, the third was a shot from thirty yards and the fourth, five minutes from the end, after a passing movement took Spurs the length of the pitch.

Following a replay Spurs discovered they would be meeting Sheffield United in the Final to be played at Crystal Palace.

Twenty years later, just back in the 1st Division, Spurs faced Preston North End at Hillsborough in their second semi-final.  The two clubs had previously met in the Cup on two occasions, including the 1st Round tie in 1901 when Spurs went on to win the Cup for the first time.  Now, the two clubs were opponents in the top flight and although Preston were in the bottom half of the League to Spurs sixth position, the northern club had been successful in both League games earlier in the season.  Spurs had had moments of good fortune in their early progress in the Cup but on this occasion it seemed to desert them.  It took two goals from Bert Bliss in the second half to ensure Spurs’ victory – scoring the first with a typical drive and then converting a pass from captain, Arthur Grimsdell.  A mix-up in the Spurs’ defence allowed Preston to pull a goal back but Spurs were never under any threat.  The game could and should have been wrapped long before Spurs scored their first goal.  In the first half they had two goals disallowed – the first after Jimmy Banks scored but the referee gave Spurs a free-kick for a foul on Jimmy Seed and then a second following a scramble in the Preston area was disallowed for some unknown reason.   Early in the second half Spurs should have had two penalties – firstly for a foul on Banks and then when a Preston defender handled but neither impressed the referee.

Spurs’ opponents in the Final at Stamford Bridge would be Second Division Wolverhampton Wanderers who had defeated another Second Division side, Cardiff City in a replay.

The following year, in 1922, Spurs suffered their first semi-final defeat, Preston gaining revenge for the previous year’s defeat in controversial circumstances.  Spurs were favourites to win and played in that manner throughout the first half and went a goal up through Jimmy Seed.  Preston looked a beaten team at half-time but in the second half were re-vitalised and equalised.  Spurs came back into the game and looked to have scored when a shot from Bert Bliss beat the goalkeeper and was on its way into the net.  At this point the referee stopped the game to attend to an injured Preston player.  He decreed that he had blown the whistle before the ball entered the net and disallowed the goal.  To add insult to injury, the player hadn't been seriously injured.  This decision demoralised the Spurs players and Preston went on to score the winning goal.  In the Final Preston lost to a disputed penalty, awarded for a foul committed outside the area, but that is of little consolation to Spurs.

It was another twenty six years before Spurs were to grace a semi-final again and it was as a 2nd Division side that they met 1st Division Blackpool at Villa Park in 1947-48.  They had defeated 1st Division Bolton and then 2nd Division clubs, West Bromwich, Leicester and Southampton to reach this stage.  For over an hour Spurs were the equal of Blackpool who were the strong favourites with Stanley Matthews and Stan Mortensen in their side.  It was Spurs, however, who went ahead when Len Duquemin got the final touch in a goalmouth scramble for his eighth Cup goal of the season. Time ticked away and Spurs were within four minutes of their first Wembley final when a pass from Matthews found Mortensen.  He set off on a thirty yard run, past four defenders and shot from a very acute angle near the goal line. The shot caught Ted Ditchburn unawares and Spurs were totally deflated.   Into extra time and Mortensen scored twice more to ensure Spurs’ Cup dreams ended at Villa Park.   That result so demoralised Spurs that they won only two of their final twelve League games and missed out on a possible promotion by finishing in eighth place.

Five seasons later, Spurs had an opportunity to gain revenge on Blackpool when they again met in the semi-final at Villa Park.  This time both clubs were in the 1st Division and this was seen as a last opportunity for the ‘Push and Run’ side to achieve Cup success.   It had been a long road to the semi-final for Spurs who had played eight games to reach this stage.  They had needed replays to beat Tranmere and Preston, then one game saw off Halifax but the 6th Round tie with Birmingham City went to three games.  This time Blackpool with Matthews and Mortensen still a force to be reckoned with, took an early lead but early in the second half Spurs levelled through Len Duquemin.  Spurs were now in control and the game was heading for extra time when with seconds remaining Alf Ramsey attempted a back pass to Ted Ditchburn.  As he did so, he slipped and the ball fell short allowing the Blackpool forward to step in and score past Ditchburn.  Only time remained to kick off again and Spurs would have to wait a little longer for a final at Wembley.

Blackpool went on to win the Final against Bolton in the famous ‘Matthews’ final.

Villa Park was becoming a bogey ground for Spurs where FA Cup semi-final games were concerned. In 1955-56 they again had the misfortune to lose there at the penultimate stage – this time to Manchester City.  It was a refereeing mistake that helped to prevent Spurs achieving that first Wembley final.  Spurs were a goal down but in the final minutes were battling for an equaliser.   The captain, Danny Blanchflower had moved centre half, Maurice Norman, forward into the attack as he had done successfully in the previous round against West Ham.  In the dieing moments winger George Robb was through on goal and about to score when the Manchester City goalkeeper, Bert Trautmann, caught hold of his legs.  A goal or a penalty, Spurs should have scored but somehow, unbelievably, the officials saw nothing and Spurs had once again fallen short.  ‘What if’ Spurs had scored – they could have taken the game into extra time and gone on to win but the repercussions of the defeat went further than expected.  The Spurs manager, Jimmy Anderson, was unimpressed with Blanchflower’s decision to make changes to the team during the game and in the ensuing row Blanchflower resigned as captain and did not take on the role for another two seasons.

After such a period of disappointment, Spurs were about to embark on a sequence of seven successive semi-final victories stretching over thirty years.  At the fourth attempt, it was the ‘Double’ team of 1960-61 that was to lay the ghost of Villa Park.  Drawn to play defending League champions Burnley a tight game was expected as Burnley had recovered from a four goal deficit to earn a draw in the League game at White Hart Lane earlier in the season.  The semi-final tie saw Spurs take the lead after half an hour and went further ahead when Bobby Smith scored his second in the second half.  This deflated Burnley and Cliff Jones added the third before the end.   Spurs were on their way to Wembley for the first time where they would find Leicester City trying to prevent them completing an historic ‘Double.’

A year later Spurs overcame Manchester United at Hillsborough at the semi-final stage of the competition as they endeavoured to retain the trophy.  Goals from Jimmy Greaves, Terry Medwin and Cliff Jones ensured that Spurs won comfortably and returned to Wembley to meet the team they defeated in the previous year’s semi-final.  Greaves and Jones gave Spurs a two goal half-time lead. United scored with seven minutes remaining but Medwin ensured Spurs’ victory, scoring three minutes later.

The 1967 semi-final saw Spurs return to Hillsborough to play Nottingham Forest. Both teams were in the top three of the League and Spurs were on an unbeaten run that stretched back to mid-January.  In a very close game Forest started the better and Cyril Knowles cleared off the line early on but then after half an hour Jimmy Greaves scored with a great volley from twenty five yards that went in off the post.  Just before half-time Forest almost equalised when a Knowles defensive header hit the post but Spurs held on.  In the second half Forest continued to search for the equaliser but when Frank Saul caught a Forest defender in possession he took the ball to the edge of the penalty area to score with a great shot to put Spurs two up after sixty seven minutes.  Forest weren’t down and out and scored with ten minutes left but although they searched for the equaliser, Spurs had further opportunities to increase their lead. In the following day’s papers the match was described as ‘pulsating’ and a game in which Spurs ‘earned the right to meet Chelsea in the first all London Final at Wembley on the strength of a highly skilled performance in a classic semi-final that had moments of magic and tragedy.’

Although Spurs enjoyed Cup success at home and in Europe over the next decade and a half, the FA Cup eluded them.  It was in 1981 that they next reached an FA Cup semi-final, under the guidance of Keith Burkinshaw. Spurs’ progress to this stage had been steady and they were drawn to play Wolverhampton Wanderers at Hillsborough.  Everyone’s memory of this game is the penalty that was awarded to Wolves in the dieing moments for a tackle by Glenn Hoddle.  This gave Wolves the chance to equalise and take the game into extra time.  The game remained level at 2-2 and a replay was required. The fury of the Spurs’ players and spectators at the penalty decision is understandable as it was wrong on two accounts – the tackle was outside the penalty area and Hoddle won the ball cleanly without touching the ‘diving’ Terry Hibbitt.  Spurs had taken the lead through Steve Archibald after four minutes but Wolves equalised a minute later.  Just before half-time, Hoddle put Spurs ahead from a free kick, that could justifiably have been a penalty.  Spurs defended resolutely until the referee played his part but then we would have missed the excitement of the replay at Highbury.

For some unaccountable reason the FA decided that the replay would take place at Highbury which was a tremendous advantage to Spurs. It was the perfect place for Spurs to win an exciting replay. Determined not to be deprived of their place at Wembley as they had been the previous Saturday, Spurs were fired up for the game from the outset and took an early lead when Garth Crooks headed the opening goal. Wolves came back strongly but couldn’t get an equaliser.  Then just before half-time Crooks scored the second when taking a pass from Hoddle, he finished with ease.   Spurs were celebrating and Ricky Villa sealed the victory with a great goal scored from thirty yards.  A great victory and a stylish performance as ‘Spurs were on their way to Wembley’ again.

The following season as Spurs fought to retain the trophy, the semi-final game took them to Villa Park where they met 2nd Division, Leicester City.  It was a difficult game for everyone and Ossie Ardiles played his last game of the season for Spurs as he returned to Argentina to prepare for the World Cup.  However, there was the additional problem of the Falklands War and Ardiles was constantly booed by the Leicester fans.  Spurs eventually wore Leicester down in the second half when after 56 minutes Ardiles centred for Crooks to score.   Leicester lost a player to injury and their ten men battled gamely but in the 76th minute conceded a soft own goal.  The defender with many options to clear lifted his back pass over the goalkeeper’s head.  This was a very comfortable semi-final victory for Spurs who returned to Wembley for a second successive year to meet Queens Park Rangers.

Spurs next semi-final game was one of the easiest they’ve ever played at this stage of the Cup. Watford went into the game at Villa Park with goalkeeping problems and had to call up an emergency keeper as their regular keepers were injured.   A 4-1 victory did not flatter Spurs as David Pleat’s side continued their good form and won through goals from Steve Hodge(2), Clive Allen and Paul Allen. Coventry City were their unexpected opponents in the Final.

In all the years of the FA Cup, Spurs and Arsenal had only previously met in the competition on two occasions.   Now, in 1991, they were to meet in the semi-final.   Such was the demand for tickets that the game was arranged for Wembley, the first occasion that a semi-final had taken place there.  Spurs were under continuing financial pressure but their biggest problem prior to this game was the fitness of their talisman, Paul Gascoigne.  He had undergone a hernia operation immediately after the 6th Round win over Notts County, in the hope that he would be fit for the semi-final.  Four days before the game he successfully played for an hour in a League game at Norwich and was fit to play at Wembley.  Spurs’ other difficulty was that Arsenal had only lost once in the League and were looking to win the ‘Double’.  The atmosphere at Wembley was electric and Gascoigne was at his most exuberant best.  Spurs were not expected to win this game but Venables had them firing on all cylinders from the start.  After five minutes Gascoigne scored from a 35 yard free kick that was hit with such power and accuracy that it left Seaman clutching at thin air.   As Venables said afterwards, “Paul was probably the only player who could do anything like that.”  Five minutes later Gary Lineker increased Spurs’ lead.  Arsenal didn’t know what had hit them but they managed to score before half-time.  Gazza played for only sixty minutes but left to an ovation – ‘Spurs Hero of Wembley.’  Shortly after Gascoigne’s departure, his replacement, Nayim set up Lineker to score the third to take Spurs to the Final.

All the players played their part in this memorable victory as Arsenal were humbled by an inspired Gazza who ensured Spurs had a fantastic victory.  ‘St. Hotspur Day’- a day never to be forgotten by Spurs’ fans around the world nor will the words of Barry Davies, commenting on the semi-final as Gascoigne lined up the free-kick, "He's not going to have a go from there.... he is you know.... that is Schoolboy's Own stuff!"

That was Spurs’ seventh successive FA Cup semi-final victory but since that very memorable and enjoyable day, Spurs have only had that sinking feeling where those games have been concerned. Although they have endured difficult times in the subsequent years Spurs have still managed to reach the semi-final on five occasions.  Two years later another visit to Wembley was required when Spurs and Arsenal were again drawn together.   Terry Venables’ team were left feeling hard done by in 1993 when a refereeing decision influenced the result.  Spurs were denied a penalty when Darren Anderton was brought down in the penalty area in the first half.  If Spurs had been awarded a penalty and Arsenal reduced to ten men with over an hour to play the complexion of the game might have been different.   it wasn’t, however, and then with ten minutes remaining the Arsenal goal was scored from a dubious free-kick although tighter marking by the Spurs’ defence could have eliminated the danger. The ‘might have beens’ could go on for ever but if Spurs had gone on to Wembley and won the Cup, the subsequent dramatic and traumatic end of season events with the fall-out between Alan Sugar and Terry Venables may never have occurred and Spurs mightn’t have gone into a decade of decline.

Defeat in the semi-final usually has some repercussions – in 1947 Spurs missed out on promotion, in 1957 Blanchflower resigned as captain, in 1993 Venables and Sugar fell out while following the 1995 defeat by Everton, Spurs lost Jurgen Klinsmann who along with Teddy Sheringham had been such a vital part of Spurs’ resurgence that season.  The season had started with Spurs banned from the competition as punishment for the financial irregularities uncovered in the Sugar/Venables affair.  It was only as the 3rd Round approached that the decision was overturned and Spurs were re-instated. Progress to the semi-finals had brought memorable performances at Southampton and Liverpool and now Spurs were faced with Everton at Elland Road as the final step back to Wembley.   The media were predicting a Spurs/Manchester United final but unfortunately Everton hadn’t read the script. Spurs were troubled by injuries on the day and Stuart Nethercott had to play as emergency left back. Spurs simply did not perform, little resembling the side that had played so well in earlier rounds and produced such exciting football during the season.  Everton started the better and took a two goal lead.  Klinsmann scored a penalty for Spurs but two late goals sealed Spurs’ fate and added to their embarrassment.

The result was a shattering blow to the fans and the club but the further ramification was that Klinsmann later announced that he would be leaving at the end of the season.  He had brought vitality to the club but with the team not being able to offer him European football the following season he decided to return to Germany.  This was an even greater blow to the Club and one that they have been striving to recover from since that fateful day – only in recent seasons has there been a recovery in Spurs status and expectations.

In 1999 Spurs under George Graham had already won the Worthington Cup and were looking for a Cup ‘double’ as they took on Newcastle United at Old Trafford.  Progress to this stage had been seen a comfortable victory over Watford, replays were needed to see off Wimbledon and Leeds, the latter succumbing to two spectacular goals from Anderton and Ginola at White Hart Lane.  Ginola produced another ‘special’ to win at Barnsley and Spurs were looking confident as they came to play Newcastle.  They weren’t, however, at their best against the Tyneside club but the game turned on the hour when the referee missed a blatant handball by the Newcastle defender, Dabizas, as he struggled to head clear from a free-kick. The game remained scoreless and went into extra time when from a similar situation Campbell was penalised and Newcastle were awarded a penalty.   Shearer scored and with Spurs deflated, added a second to end Spurs’ dreams of a second visit to Wembley.

In 2001, Spurs had another opportunity to reach the FA Cup Final but once again Arsenal stood in their way.  In the entire history of the FA Cup, the two clubs have only met twice in earlier rounds of the competition but on the four occasions that both clubs have reached the semi-finals, they have been drawn together three times.  The background to the tie was Spurs’ change of manager.  A week after Spurs’ thrilling victory over West Ham United at Upton Park in the 6th Round George Graham was sacked.  David Pleat took temporary charge while the club waited for Glenn Hoddle whose first game in charge was the semi-final at Old Trafford.  It started brightly for Spurs with Gary Doherty who had been the hero of earlier rounds with two important goals, giving Spurs the lead.  Arsenal, however, came more and more into the game and it was only an outstanding display by Neil Sullivan in the Spurs’ goal that kept the score to 2-1 for Spurs’ north London neighbours.  While Hoddle’s return to Tottenham was welcome, the timing was not the most appropriate, before such an important game and especially as the players had come together as a team through the Cup run.

Spurs last reached the semi-final stage in 2010 when they faced Portsmouth.  The south coast club were in dire straits facing both relegation and financial problems.  Spurs had defeated Harry Redknapp's old club in both Premier League matches and the last game, only a few weeks previously, had been an extremely comfortable victory at White Hart Lane.  In the semi-final Portsmouth worked extremely hard throughout and Spurs simply couldn't respond or lift their game.  The match went into extra time and was looking destined for penalties when Portsmouth's goal came courtesy of a Michael Dawson slip on the much criticised newly laid Wembley turf.  He slipped at a vital moment as he was about to clear the ball in the centre of the penalty area.  The ball fell invitingly for Portsmouth who accepted the gift and went on to secure a two goal victory and Spurs felt annoyed with the performance of their team and officials who ruled out both a goal and penalty claims in extra time.  Spurs showed remarkable powers of recovery from this very disappointing performance to produce a run to gain Champions League football for the first time.

Spurs haven't had a successful semi-final since 1991which is a very long period for a club with a Cup reputation but this season their quest for Champions League football is being accompanied by a Cup run in the best traditions of seeking the glory of winning the Cup.

The story of the FA Cup, season after season brings dreams that ultimately go unfulfilled but on those few occasions when everything falls into place they are the greatest moments and create lasting memories that carry supporters through in hope for the seasons that lie ahead.

For the Record:
Tottenham's FA Cup Semi-Final Win and Loss Account:

1901 West Bromwich Albion (Villa Park) Won 4-0 Brown (4)
1921 Preston North End (Hillsborough) Won 2-1 Bliss (2)
 1922 Preston North End (Hillsborough) Lost 1-2 Seed
1948 Blackpool (Villa Park) Lost 1-3 (aet) Duquemin
1953 Blackpool (Villa Park) Lost 1-2 Duquemin
1956 Manchester City (Villa Park) Lost 0-1 
1961 Burnley (Villa Park) Won 3-0 Smith R (2), Jones
1962 Manchester United (Hillsborough) Won 3-1 Greaves, Medwin, Jones 
1967 Nottingham Forest (Hillsborough) Won 2-1 Greaves, Saul
1981 Wolverhampton Wanderers (Hillsborough) Draw 2-2 (aet) Archibald, Hoddle
Replay Wolverhampton Wanderers (Highbury) Won 3-0 Crooks (2), Villa
1982 Leicester City (Villa Park) Won 2-0 Crooks, Opp. o.g.
1987 Watford (Villa Park) won 4-1 Hodge (2), Allen P, Allen C 
1991 Arsenal (Wembley) Won 3-1 Gascoigne, Lineker (2) 
1993 Arsenal (Wembley) Lost 0-1
1995 Everton (Elland Road) Lost 1-4 Klinsmann (p)
1999 Newcastle United (Old Trafford) Lost 0-2 (aet)
 2001 Arsenal (Old Trafford) Lost 1-2 Doherty
2010 Portsmouth (Wembley) Lost 0-2 (aet)

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.

They Played for Spurs and Manchester United

Nine players have played for both Spurs and Manchester United with the most recent to move between the two clubs being Dimitar Berbatov who signed for United in the summer of 2008.  The most recent player to move from Old Trafford to Tottenham in a permanent deal was Teddy Sheringham when he resigned for Spurs in 2001.

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Tottenham The Glory-Glory Game Cost £15.00 (+p&p)

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In recent times, it would appear as if Manchester United have viewed Totttenham as one of their feeder clubs as they have signed Teddy Sheringham, Michael Carrick and Dimitar Berbatov to strengthen their trophy winning teams.  More recently, there has been speculation in the media of their interest in Luka Modric and with their ageing midfield, presumably, a further raid is something Spurs may have to ward off in the coming months.

The second player to play for both Spurs and United was a forward called Jimmy Brown (left).  He had spent two seasons with United and appeared to be a player of promise but after joining Brentford he failed to develop.  He spent two fairly unsuccessful years there before moving across London to join Spurs in 1936.  He made four League appearances without scoring and spent the rest of his time in the reserves before being released at the end of the season.  This raises an obvious question - in the light of his unimpressive time with Brentford, why did Spurs sign him? 

Jack Hall was a goalkeeper who had four seasons with United from 1932.  In season 1935-36, Hall impressed in the two games between the clubs, keeping a clean sheet on both occasions.  United were promoted but Spurs persuaded Hall to sign for them and he made his debut a few weeks ahead of James Brown.  He was almost an ever present in his first season but the next year, a loss of form saw him lose his place to Percy Hooper.  He was unavailable to Spurs during the War and when he returned in 1945 Spurs had Ted Ditchburn as a very promising goalkeeper and Hall was released.  In total he played 67 League and Cup games for Spurs.

Chris McGrath came into the Spurs team during Bill Nicholson's last full season, replacing Alan Gilzean.  From Belfast, he came through the Spurs youth team and made a good impression, especially in the European games as Spurs progressed to the UEFA Cup Final.  He made his debut in a 2 - 0 win over Arsenal in October, 1973 and played 22 League games that year with eight European appearances.  He scored 5 League goals and five goals in UEFA Cup, including one in the semi-final second leg game.  He made his international debut but after that initial successful run, it became more difficult for McGrath under the new manager, Terry Neill.  He joined United in 1976 for £35,000 having made only 47 League and Cup appearances for Spurs.  In five years at Old Trafford he made only 16 full League appearances.

Terry Gibson was another young player at Spurs who made a good start to his career but failed to develop.  He made his debut against Stoke City in December, 1979 while still an apprentice.  He was small in stature but an all action striker.  He made 26 League and Cup appearances, scoring 7 goals but being unable to get a regular place in the team, he joined Coventry City for £100,000 in 1983.  Three years later he joined United and spent eighteen months there but failed to make an impression. He joined Wimbledon where he had the most successful period of his career and was part of their FA Cup success in 1988.

Alan Brazil joined Spurs from Ipswich Town in March, 1983 for £450,000 after six successful years in East Anglia.  The Scottish international striker made 38 appearances for Spurs in all competitions and scored 13 goals.  He joined United in June, 1984 for £750,000 and spent eighteen months at Old Trafford.

Garth Crooks joined Spurs from Stoke in the summer of 1980 to form a goal scoring partnership with Steve Archibald which brought Cup success to Tottenham in the early 1980s.  He had a short loan spell with United in November, 1983.  He eventually joined West Bromwich Albion in July, 1985. He made over 180 League and Cup appearances for Spurs and scored 75 goals.

Teddy Sheringham joined Spurs from Nottingham Forest in 1992 and spent five years with the club before moving to United.  Glenn Hoddle brought him back  to Spurs in 2001 and he spent another two seasons at White Hart Lane.  He scored 98 League goals for Spurs in 236 appearances and his 27 Cup goals puts him combined total of goals, high on Tottenham's record goal scorers list.  in his time with United he scored vital goals as he helped them to League, Cup and European success.

Michael Carrick joined Spurs from West Ham in 2004 and became an integral part of Martin Jol's midfield.  After two seasons, and 64 League appearances, United made an offer for Carrick but Spurs didn't want to sell as he was important to the club's future development.   Eventually an offer of £14 million, rising to £18.6 million was accepted and he joined United in the summer of 2006.  He has made over 160 League appearances for United and added to his international appearances.

Dimitar Berbatov followed Carrick to United two seasons later in a similar but rather acrimonious circumstances.  Berbatov had joined Spurs in May, 2006 from Bayer Leverkusen and scored 27 League goals in 70 League appearances.  He helped them to their Carling Cup success in 2008, scoring the equaliser in the final from the penalty spot.  That summer United made an approach which was rejected but they persisted but after an official complaint by Spurs and as the end of the August transfer approached Berbatov appeared to be refusing to play for Spurs and on the last day of the month he joined United for over £30 million.  Spurs had accepted an offer from Manchester City but United highjacked the move in a chaotic day of transfer business.

Fraizer Campbell came to Spurs on a season's long loan as part of the Berbatov deal.  He made ten League appearances, scoring one, his first Premier League goal, after coming on as a substitute in the defeat at Fulham, the first loss after Redknapp became manager.  He helped Spurs reach the Carling Cup Final, scoring twice against Liverpool in the 4th Round, but was unable to play against United in that game.  He returned to United at the end of the season and joined Sunderland during that summer.
  
To ensure such transfers don't occur again, whereby United are strengthened to the detriment of Spurs, the progress that Spurs have made under Harry Redknapp must be maintained with Champions League football on a regular basis and trophies won as well.

Spurs Home record against United: Here

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.

 

Use Code: LH1  Spurs Writers' Club

 

United Score - Game Over for Spurs

Manchester United 3 Tottenham Hotspur 0

Aaron Lennon

Well, the answer to my last question in my previous blog is a resounding 'NO'.  The date of 22nd August was not to be added to these few occasions when Spurs won at Old Trafford.

For an hour it was looking quite positive.  In the first half Spurs had withstood United's early dominance and had then started to make an impression on the game.  Satisfied at half-time but after that United started to build up a period of sustained pressure which reduced Spurs' forward forays to almost nothing.  However, Aaron Lennon had one great opportunity to create an opening for Spurs when he got past the full back to the line but as he moved towards goal, with both Gareth Bale and Rafael Van der Vaart waiting for a pass, he froze and did nothing.  He lost the ball, at that moment he was like a rabbit transfixed in the headlights of a car, and Spurs best chance was gone to the very evident displeasure of Van der Vaart on the pitch and his manager off it.

In spite of their possession and pressure United were not causing any real problems to the Spurs defence where Brad Friedel was making his Tottenham debut at the age of forty, Tottenham's oldest player since the war.

Unfortunately, it was following a poor United pass that they scored their goal.  Rooney saw his pass cut out by Benoit Assou-Ekotto but his poor clearance gifted the ball to Cleverly and from his cross Wellbeck headed the opening goal.  Game over.

The goal gave United confidence and they poured forward in search of a second.  Tottenham faded and the inevitable happened.  It was only after conceding the second goal that Spurs managed to mount a dangerous strike on the United goal.  From a cross, challenged by substitute Roman Pavlyuchenko in the air, United's young goalkeeper flapped at it and the ball fell to Jermain Defoe who volley crashed against the woodwork.  That was the end as far as Spurs were concerned and Rooney scored a third towards the end.

Team: Friedel; Walker (Corluka), Dawson, Kaboul, Assou-Ekotto; Lennon, Livermore (Huddlestone), Kranjcar (Pavlyuchenko), Bale, Van der Vaart; Defoe.

Horrendous Record at Old Trafford 
Tottenham went into the game hoping to overturn years of history surrounding their games against United but in the end had to accept they were second best and would have to wait for another year to end their losing sequence of games at Old Trafford.

P 22 W 0 D 4 L 18 Goals For 9 Ag 46

Tottenham have now conceded 13 goals in their last four League visits to Old Trafford and 7 in three Cup games there since 2008.

Pointless Tactics

Tottenham had a stated intention of targeting United's young goalkeeper who has made mistakes in his first two games for the club.  A valid idea which was an obvious tactic to anyone prior to the game but this was taken to such an extent that Van der Vaart was shooting on sight from ridiculous distances which wasn't going to trouble any keeper and also saw him, along with Bale and defoe shooting or trying to shoot when other were in a better goalscoring position.  This selfishness cost the team dearly when a pass could have been more productive and played into United's hands and actually took the pressure off the keeper who was dealing comfortably with the shots.  It was only after they went two goals down did they get any joy against the keeper when challenged for the cross which led to Defoe's shot against the woodwork.  From free-kicks and corners Spurs should have tried to put pressure on the keeper to unsettle him with Michael Dawson and Younes Kaboul to aim at but instead we had a series of ineffective shots which caused no alarm to United's defence.  

For an hour Tottenham were able to compete against United but throughout the second half both Bale and Lennon were mostly anonymous.   For Spurs to have any chance of progressing in such games they need both these players playing their part in a 'big' performance.  Similarly with Van der Vaart he needs to play more as a team player and not constantly looking to score an 'out of this world' goal - you don't get any more points for such a strike, a tap-in will still bring three points.

Friedel looked comfortable in goal as you would expect from a player of his experience.  He did everything efficiently and effectively and there were no heart stopping moments of which Gomes is prone.

Walker was comfortable at full back but was taken ill at half-time.  Corluka played as he does, coping admirably with Young's pace.

Dawson and Koboul were comfortable in central defence for an hour but then as the team became stretched so they lost some of their composure and found it more difficult to pick up their men as United came forward in numbers against a tiring central midfield.

Jake Livermore had a comfortable debut in difficult circumstances and combined well with Kranjcar who did well until United increased the pressure and gained some movement and momentum.  They got pulled out of position as time went on and this enables United to prosper.  Spurs missed more defensive central midfield player like Sandro or Palacios.

Lennon and Bale worked hard especially in the first half but faded after United became more dominant and didn't do enough to keep the United full backs in defence allowing them time to push forward in support of their midfield.  Both should be contributing more in big games like this and were wasteful when in possession either running into trouble or wasting crosses or shots.  Disappointing that they didn't make a more meaningful contribution in the second half.

Van der Vaart worked tirelessly in trying to create something from just behind the striker.  He came deep to collect the ball and plyed across the pitch.  He looks much fitter and lasted the whole game.  In trying to score a spectacular goal he can forget that there are others in the team who might be in abetter position.  how to harness his talent and skill to the team is Harry Redknap's difficulty.

Defoe worked hard but never got behind the defence with a clear chance on goal.  The best came from the cross but when he was running at goal, like Van der Vaart, he had only one thought - a shot on goal but he didn't trouble the goalkeeper.

Tottenham lost but the Manchester United team are not as good as commentators are trying to make out and a more robust team (not the 'Tottenham way') would have caused them problems.

Following this defeat, hopefully, the Chairman will see the need for some new signings in appropriate positions (ie. striker, central midfield and defence) to help Spurs close the gap on the top teams.  Otherwise it could be similar to last year with an unfruitful attempt to get into a Champions League position and other top players will decide they need to find pastures new.  If Luka Modric does go to Clhelsea this August, it will be even more difficult to keep Bale, Van der Vaart, Lennon, Sandro and others in January and next summer.  The star players may go but the Huttons and Bentleys of the squad might still be there.

The next few days are important days for Tottenham Hotspur - it could determine the season that lies ahead.

Tottenham CAN Win at Old Trafford

Lineker Scorer at OT

Right, let's get the horrific statistics which commentators just love to bombard us with out of the way.  Spurs haven't beaten Manchester United in the Premier League and are on a winless run of twenty League games, twenty four if you include Cup games.  The last time Tottenham won at Old Trafford was in December, 1989 so for the last twenty one seasons they have failed to win at Old Trafford.  On only only four occasions have Spurs returned with a point - the last goal to count for anything for Spurs at Old Trafford was a Jermaine Jenas strike in October, 2005.  Looking at the overall record of League visits to Manchester to play United, Spurs have won on only ten occasions with fourteen draws from 74 games.

There's no way to put it but Spurs' record against United is atrocious and getting worse, not helped by some dubious refereeing decisions, disallowed goals and questionable penalties given against them.

However, Tottenham Hotspur can win at Old Trafford - they've done it before.

16th December, 1989
Gary Lineker gave Spurs supporters an early Christmas present with the only goal of the game.
Team: Mimms; Thomas, M., Howells, Mabbutt, Van den Hauwe; Allen, P., Samways, Gascoigne, Sedgley; Stewart, Lineker.

This followed an impressive 3 - 0 success over United in the Littlewoods Cup the previous October, when Lineker, Vinny Samways and Nayim scored.  How times have changed - that season Spurs finished third while United lanquished in mid-table mediocrity of thirteenth.


4th September, 1976
Spurs were relegated at the end of this Keith Burkinshaw's first season as manager and there was little for supporters to cheer in the early part of the season.  They had one point from their opening three games - a dull scoreless draw at home to Middlesbrough prior to visiting Old Trafford.  Their first win of the season came courtesy of goals from Ralph Coates, John Pratt and Ian Moores.  The star was Barry Daines who had an outstanding game in place of Pat Jennings and that started media speculation about how long could Spurs keep their young reserve goalkeeper happy when he was second choice to Jennings.

23rd March, 1974
Ralph Coates scored the only goal which enabled Spurs to complete the 'double' over United who were relegated at the end of the season.

28th October, 1972
A memorable day for Spurs and Martin Peters.  He scored the four goals at Old Trafford which gave Spurs a 4 - 1 success.  Playing on the right side of midfield in place of Alan Gilzean, Peters commented after the game that he was simply in the right place at the right time - four times.  United finished 18th in the League and Bobby Charlton who had scored their goal that day was their leading scorer in season 1972 - 73 with six goals, retired after a distinguished career.


Between 1963 and 1971 United won nine home games in a row against Spurs.

9th March, 1963
Frank Saul and Cliff Jones scored Spurs' two goals without reply.

Even the 'Double' winning team failed to carry their success to Old Trafford but three seasons earlier  Spurs enjoyed a resounding victory.  

12th September, 1959
Dave Mackay, Tommy Harmer, Bobby Smith (2), Dunmore scored the goals in a 5 - 1 victory

21st August, 2011
Can this date be added to the select list?
 
Spurs have enjoyed success at Old Trafford and on occasions it has been in the most unlikely of circumstances.  At other times it has been a resounding success so there is no reason why a team which includes players with the pace and skill of Gareth Bale and Aaron Lennon, the guile of Rafael Van der Vaart and the goal scoring inclination of Jermain Defoe can not bring back three points tomorrow evening.  It needs teamwork, concentration and endeavour to deny United and to put them under pressure.  

There have been times in recent years when success against United at home and away has been so close but slipped away at the last moment.  Spurs demons have been allayed in the recent past - defeating Chelsea, winning against Arsenal and at the Emirates and defeating Liverpool at Anfield.  This team has managed to break down those barriers so now it's time to knock over another one and secure a win at Old Trafford to get the season off to the best possible start.

Spurs in History - 12th August

12th August, 1961

Spurs 3 F.A.XI 2 F.A.Charity Shield (White Hart Lane)

In 1961 as the ‘Double’ winners Spurs had no-one to play in this traditional curtain raiser to the season. An F.A.XI provided the opposition and Spurs won with goals from Les Allen(2) and Bobby Smith.

12th August, 1967

Manchester United 3 Spurs 3 F.A.Charity Shield (Old Trafford)

In 1967, this high scoring game is remembered for the identity of the scorer of Spurs' second goal. After two minutes Spurs took the lead when Jimmy Robertson scored from a Jimmy Greaves cross. Five minutes later, Pat Jennings played a long clearance up-field that bounced between Gilzean and United’s goalkeeper, Stepney, went over the keeper’s head and into the net.

United were level by the twentieth minute but Spurs went ahead again through Frank Saul, early in the second half. However, with fifteen minutes left United equalised and the clubs shared the trophy.

Spurs in History - 18th June

18th June, 1952

Spurs 8 Quebec F.A. 0 (Friendly in Montreal)

Spurs long close season tour to North America finally came to an end with this victory.

They remained undefeated throughout the tour, winning all ten matches played, eight against local opposition and two exhibition games against Manchester United.

The goals were scored by Sid McClellan (3) who had replaced Len Duquemin who had been injured in an early tackle, Les Bennett (3), Ralph Wetton and Les Medley. Two days later, the party set off on the seven day return voyage on the ‘Empress of Canada.’

Spurs in History - 15th June

15th June, 1952

Manchester United 1 Spurs 7 (Friendly in New York)

Nearing the end of their North American tour Spurs played United twice in twenty four hours. The previous day, in Toronto, Spurs had won 5-0 and as League Champions United were looking for revenge in this game.

They took an early lead but Spurs equalised within a minute through Les Bennett and scored another three in the next eighteen minutes for a 4-1 lead at half-time. A further three goals in ten minutes midway through the second half made Spurs very comfortable winners.

The goals were scored by Len Duquemin (4), Les Bennett (2) and Sid McClellan.

Spurs in History - 8th June

8th June, 1957

Spurs 3 Glasgow Celtic 1 (Friendly in Vancouver)

The nine match tour of North America included four games against Celtic and Spurs had been successful in the first two matches.

Throughout the games Bobby Smith had proved a great problem to the Celtic defence, scoring five times in the first two games. This match was no different as Smith scored his second hat-trick against the Scottish team.

A crowd of 24,198 watched the game, which was the second highest attendance in Canada for a football match. The largest attendance had been during the 1952 tour when Spurs played Manchester United.

Spurs and the FA Cup Semi-Finals

Spurs and the FA Cup

Semi-Finals - 1901 – 2010

It is now over twenty years since Tottenham last enjoyed the celebrations of winning an FA Cup semi-final.  There have been many trials and tribulations in that time but Spurs have fallen short at that vital stage even when firm favourites as in 2010 against Portsmouth.  In their lengthy history Spurs have reached this stage of the competition on eighteen occasions, winning on nine occasions and for most of those successes the result was well deserved with Spurs winning comfortably. However, of the nine unsuccessful attempts to reach the Final, there has often been a sense of injustice as Spurs have been at the wrong end of some dubious decisions.

As a Southern League side Spurs had progressed to the 1901 FA Cup semi-final having disposed of the Cup holders, Bury, and the only other surviving non-League side, Reading, in previous rounds. First Division, West Bromwich Albion at Villa Park were Spurs next opponents while Sheffield United and Aston Villa contested the other semi-final. Although the game was like a home game for Albion, Spurs took thousands of spectators to the Birmingham venue.

The Spurs’ hero was Sandy Brown who scored all four goals as Spurs won comprehensively. Brown had scored in every round of the Cup and now had a total of twelve goals in the competition. Spurs were very much the under-dogs and all of the Spurs’ players deserved credit for this performance. Although the game was scoreless at half-time Spurs had more of the play and from the time that Brown headed the first goal just after the restart from a centre by John Kirwan, there was no doubting the result. He scored twice more in the next twenty minutes – his second from a corner, the third was a shot from thirty yards and the fourth, five minutes from the end, after a passing movement took Spurs the length of the pitch.

Following a replay Spurs discovered they would be meeting Sheffield United in the Final to be played at Crystal Palace.

Twenty years later, just back in the 1st Division, Spurs faced Preston North End at Hillsborough in their second semi-final. The two clubs had previously met in the Cup on two occasions, including the 1st Round tie in 1901 when Spurs went on to win the Cup for the first time. Now, the two clubs were opponents in the top flight and although Preston were in the bottom half of the League to Spurs sixth position, the northern club had been successful in both League games earlier in the season. Spurs had had moments of good fortune in their early progress in the Cup but on this occasion it seemed to desert them. It took two goals from Bert Bliss in the second half to ensure Spurs’ victory – scoring the first with a typical drive and then converting a pass from captain, Arthur Grimsdell. A mix-up in the Spurs’ defence allowed Preston to pull a goal back but Spurs were never under any threat. The game could and should have been wrapped long before Spurs scored their first goal. In the first half they had two goals disallowed – the first after Jimmy Banks scored but the referee gave Spurs a free-kick for a foul on Jimmy Seed and then a second following a scramble in the Preston area was disallowed for some unknown reason. Early in the second half Spurs should have had two penalties – firstly for a foul on Banks and then when a Preston defender handled but neither impressed the referee.

Spurs’ opponents in the Final at Stamford Bridge would be Second Division Wolverhampton Wanderers who had defeated another Second Division side, Cardiff City in a replay.

The following year and Spurs suffered their first semi-final defeat, Preston gaining revenge for the previous year’s defeat in controversial circumstances. Spurs were favourites to win and played in that manner throughout the first half and went a goal up through Jimmy Seed. Preston looked a beaten team at half-time but in the second half were re-vitalised and equalised. Spurs came back into the game and looked to have scored when a shot from Bert Bliss beat the goalkeeper and was on its way into the net. At this point the referee stopped the game to attend to an injured Preston player. He decreed that he had blown the whistle before the ball entered the net and disallowed the goal. To add insult to injury, the player wasn’t even injured. This decision demoralised the Spurs players and Preston went on to score the winning goal. In the Final Preston lost to a disputed penalty, awarded for a foul committed outside the area, but that is of little consolation to Spurs.

It was another twenty six years before Spurs were to grace a semi-final again and it was as a 2nd Division side that they met 1st Division Blackpool at Villa Park. They had defeated 1st Division Bolton and then 2nd Division clubs, West Brom, Leicester and Southampton to reach this stage. For over an hour Spurs were the equal of Blackpool who were the strong favourites with Stanley Matthews and Stan Mortensen in their side. However, it was Spurs who went ahead when Len Duquemin got the final touch in a goalmouth scramble for his eighth Cup goal of the season. Time ticked away and Spurs were within four minutes of their first Wembley final when a pass from Matthews found Mortensen. He set off on a thirty yard run, past four defenders and shot from a very acute angle near the goal line. The shot caught Ted Ditchburn unawares and Spurs were totally deflated. Into extra time and Mortensen scored twice more to ensure Spurs’ Cup dreams ended at Villa Park. That result so demoralised Spurs that they won only two of their final twelve League games and missed out on a possible promotion by finishing in eighth place.

Five seasons later, Spurs had an opportunity to gain revenge on Blackpool when they again met in the semi-final at Villa Park. This time both clubs were in the 1st Division and this was seen as a last opportunity for the ‘Push and Run’ side to achieve Cup success. It had been a long road to the semi-final for Spurs who had played eight games to reach this stage. They had needed replays to beat Tranmere and Preston, then one game saw off Halifax but the 6th Round tie with Birmingham City went to three games. This time Blackpool with Matthews and Mortensen still a force to be reckoned with, took an early lead but early in the second half Spurs levelled through Len Duquemin. Spurs were now in control and the game was heading for extra time when with seconds remaining Alf Ramsey attempted a back pass to Ted Ditchburn. As he did so he slipped and the ball fell short allowing the Blackpool forward to step in and put the ball past Ditchburn. Only time remained to kick off again and Spurs would have to wait a little longer for a final at Wembley.

Blackpool went on to win the Final against Bolton in the famous ‘Matthews’ final.

Villa Park was becoming a bogey ground for Spurs where FA Cup semi-final games were concerned. In 1955-56 they again had the misfortune to lose there at the penultimate stage – this time to Manchester City. It was a refereeing mistake that helped to prevent Spurs achieving that first Wembley final. Spurs were a goal down but in the final minutes were battling for an equaliser. The captain, Danny Blanchflower had moved centre half, Maurice Norman, forward into the attack as he had done successfully in the previous round against West Ham. In the dieing moments winger George Robb was through on goal and about to score when the Manchester City goalkeeper, Bert Trautmann, caught hold of his legs. A goal or a penalty, Spurs should have scored but somehow unbelievably the officials saw nothing and Spurs had once again fallen short. ‘What if’ Spurs had scored – they could have taken the game into extra time and gone on to win but the repercussions of the defeat went further than expected. Manager, Jimmy Anderson was unimpressed with Blanchflower’s decision to make changes to the team during the game and in the ensuing row Blanchflower resigned as captain and did not take on the role for another two seasons.

After such a period of disappointment, Spurs were about to embark on a sequence of seven successive semi-final victories stretching over thirty years. At the fourth attempt, it was the ‘Double’ team of 1960-61 that was to lay the ghost of Villa Park. Drawn to play defending League champions Burnley a tight game was expected as Burnley had recovered from a four goal deficit to earn a draw in the League game at White Hart Lane earlier in the season. The semi-final tie saw Spurs take the lead after half an hour and went further ahead when Bobby Smith scored his second in the second half. This deflated Burnley and Cliff Jones added the third before the end. Spurs were on their now way to Wembley for the very first time where they would find Leicester City trying to prevent them completing an historic ‘Double.’

A year later Spurs overcame Manchester United at Hillsborough at the semi-final stage of the competition as they endeavoured to retain the trophy. Goals from Jimmy Greaves, Terry Medwin and Cliff Jones ensured that Spurs won comfortably and returned to Wembley to meet the team they defeated in the previous year’s semi-final. Greaves and Jones gave Spurs a two goal half-time lead. United scored with seven minutes remaining but Medwin ensured Spurs’ victory, scoring three minutes later.

The 1967 semi-final saw Spurs return to Hillsborough to play Nottingham Forest. Both teams were in the top three of the League and Spurs were on an unbeaten run that stretched back to mid-January. In a very close game Forest started the better and Cyril Knowles cleared off the line early on but then after half an hour Jimmy Greaves scored with a great volley from twenty five yards that went in off the post. Just before half-time Forest almost equalised when a Knowles defensive header hit the post but Spurs held on. In the second half Forest continued to search for the equaliser but when Frank Saul caught a Forest defender in possession he took the ball to the edge of the penalty area to score with a great shot to put Spurs two up after sixty seven minutes. Forest weren’t down and out and scored with ten minutes left but although they searched for the equaliser, Spurs had further opportunities to increase their lead. In the following day’s papers the match was described as ‘pulsating’ and a game in which Spurs ‘earned the right to meet Chelsea in the first all London Final at Wembley on the strength of a highly skilled performance in a classic semi-final that had moments of magic and tragedy.’

Although Spurs enjoyed Cup success at home and in Europe over the next decade and a half, the FA Cup eluded them. It was in 1981 that they next reached an FA Cup semi-final, under the guidance of Keith Burkinshaw. Spurs’ progress to this stage had been steady and they were drawn to play Wolverhampton Wanderers at Hillsborough. Everyone’s memory of this game is the penalty that was awarded to Wolves in the dieing moments for a tackle by Glenn Hoddle. This gave Wolves the chance to equalise and take the game into extra time. The game remained level at 2-2 and a replay was required. The fury of the Spurs’ players and spectators at the penalty decision is understandable as it was wrong on two accounts – the tackle was outside the penalty area and Hoddle won the ball cleanly without touching the ‘diving’ Terry Hibbitt. Spurs had taken the lead through Steve Archibald after four minutes but Wolves equalised a minute later. Just before half-time, Hoddle put Spurs ahead from a free kick, that could justifiably have been a penalty. Spurs defended resolutely until the referee played his part but then we would have missed the excitement of the replay at Highbury.

For some unaccountable reason the FA decided that the replay would take place at Highbury which was of tremendous advantage to Spurs. It was the perfect place for Spurs to win an exciting replay. Determined not to be deprived of their place at Wembley as they had been the previous Saturday, Spurs were fired up for the game from the outset and took an early lead when Garth Crooks headed the opening goal. Wolves came back strongly but couldn’t get an equaliser. Then just before half-time Crooks scored the second when taking a pass from Hoddle, he finished with ease. Spurs were celebrating and Ricky Villa sealed the victory with a great goal scored from thirty yards. A great victory and a stylish performance as ‘Spurs were on their way to Wembley’ again.

The following season as Spurs fought to retain the trophy, the semi-final game took them to Villa Park where they met 2nd Division, Leicester City. It was a difficult game for everyone and Ossie Ardiles played his last game of the season for Spurs as he returned to Argentina to prepare for the World Cup. However, there was the additional problem of the Falklands War and Ardiles was constantly booed by the Leicester fans. Spurs eventually wore Leicester down in the second half when after 56 minutes Ardiles centred for Crooks to score. Leicester lost a player to injury and their ten men battled gamely but in the 76th minute conceded a soft own goal. The defender with many options to clear lifted his back pass over the goalkeeper’s head. This was a very comfortable semi-final victory for Spurs who returned to Wembley for a second successive year to meet Queens Park Rangers.

Spurs next semi-final game was one of the easiest they’ve ever played at this stage of the Cup. Watford went into the game at Villa Park with goalkeeping problems and had to call up an emergency keeper as their regular keepers were injured. A 4-1 victory did not flatter Spurs as David Pleat’s side continued their good form and won through goals from Steve Hodge(2), Clive Allen and Paul Allen. Coventry City were their unexpected opponents in the Final.

In all the years of the FA Cup, Spurs and Arsenal had only previously met in the competition on two occasions. Now, in 1991, they were to meet in the semi-final. Such was the demand the game was arranged for Wembley, the first occasion that a semi-final had taken place there. Spurs were under continuing financial pressure but their biggest problem prior to this game was the fitness of their talisman, Paul Gascoigne. He had undergone a hernia operation immediately after the 6th Round win over Notts County, in the hope that he would be fit for the semi-final. Four days before the game he successfully played for an hour in a League game at Norwich and was fit to play at Wembley. Spurs’ other difficulty was that Arsenal had only lost once in the League and were looking to win the ‘double’. The atmosphere at Wembley was electric and Gascoigne was at his most exuberant best. Spurs were not expected to win this game but Venables had them firing on all cylinders from the start. After five minutes Gascoigne scored from a 35 yard free kick that was hit with such power and accuracy that it left Seaman clutching at thin air. As Venables said afterwards, “Paul was probably the only player who could do anything like that.” Five minutes later Gary Lineker increased Spurs’ lead. Arsenal didn’t know what had hit them but they managed to score before half-time. Gazza played for only sixty minutes but left to an ovation – ‘Spurs Hero of Wembley.’ Shortly after Gascoigne’s departure, his replacement, Nayim set up Lineker to score the third to take Spurs to the Final.

All the players played their part in this memorable victory as Arsenal were humbled by an inspired Gazza who ensured Spurs had a fantastic victory. ‘St. Hotspur Day’- a day never to be forgotten by Spurs’ fans around the world.
"He's not going to have a go from there.... he is you know.... that is Schoolboy's Own stuff!" Barry Davies, commenting on the semi-final as Gascoigne lined up the free-kick and scored from 35 yards.

That was Spurs’ seventh successive FA Cup semi-final victory but since that very memorable and enjoyable day, Spurs have only had that sinking feeling where those games have been concerned. Although they have endured difficult times in the subsequent years Spurs have still managed to reach the semi-final on four occasions. Two years later another visit to Wembley was required when Spurs and Arsenal were again drawn together. Terry Venables’ team were left feeling hard done by in 1993 when a refereeing decision influenced the result. Spurs were denied a penalty when Darren Anderton was brought down in the penalty area in the first half. If Spurs had been awarded a penalty and Arsenal reduced to ten men with over an hour to play the complexion of the game would have changed. However, it wasn’t and then with ten minutes remaining the Arsenal goal was scored from a dubious free-kick although tighter marking by the Spurs’ defence could have eliminated the danger. The ‘might have beens’ could go on for ever but if Spurs had gone on to Wembley and won the Cup, the subsequent dramatic and traumatic end of season events with the fall-out between Alan Sugar and Terry Venables may never have occurred and Spurs mightn’t have gone into a decade of decline.

Defeat in the semi-final usually has some repercussions – in 1947 Spurs missed out on promotion, in 1957 Blnchflower resigned as captain, in 1993 Venables and Sugar fell out while following the 1995 defeat by Everton, Spurs lost Jurgen Klinsmann who along with Teddy Sheringham had been such a vital part of Spurs’ resurgence that season. The season had started with Spurs banned from the competition as punishment for the financial irregularities uncovered in the Sugar/Venables affair. It was only as the 3rd Round approached that the decision was overturned and Spurs were re-instated. Progress to the semi-finals had brought memorable performances at Southampton and Liverpool and now Spurs were faced with Everton at Elland Road as the final step back to Wembley. The media were predicting a Spurs/Manchester United final but unfortunately Everton hadn’t read the script. Spurs were troubled by injuries on the day and Stuart Nethercott had to play as emergency left back. Spurs simply did not perform, little resembling the side that had played so well in earlier rounds and produced such exciting football during the season. Everton started the better and took a two goal lead. Klinsmann scored a penalty for Spurs but two late goals sealed Spurs’ fate and added to their embarrassment.

The result was a shattering blow to the fans and the club but the further ramification was that Klinsmann later announced that he would be leaving at the end of the season. He had brought vitality to the club but with the team not being able to offer him European football the following season he decided to return to Germany. This was an even greater blow to the Club and one that they have been striving to recover from since that fateful day – only in the past two seasons have there been signs of some early shoots of recovery.

In 1999 Spurs under George Graham had already won the Worthington Cup and were looking for a Cup ‘double’ as they took on Newcastle United at Old Trafford. Progress to this stage had been seen a comfortable victory over Watford, replays were needed to see off Wimbledon and Leeds, the latter succumbing to two spectacular goals from Anderton and Ginola at White Hart Lane. Ginola produced another ‘special’ to win at Barnsley and Spurs were looking confident as they came to play Newcastle. However, Spurs weren’t at their best against the Tyneside club but the game turned on the hour when the referee missed a blatant handball by the Newcastle defender, Dabizas, as he struggled to head clear from a free-kick. The game remained scoreless and went into extra time when from a similar situation Campbell was penalised and Newcastle were awarded a penalty. Shearer scored and with Spurs deflated, added a second to end Spurs’ dreams of a second visit to Wembley.

In 2001, Spurs had another opportunity to reach the FA Cup Final but once again Arsenal stood in their way. In the entire history of the FA Cup, the two clubs have only met on two occasions in earlier rounds of the competition but of the four times they have both reached the semi-finals, they have been drawn together on three occasions. The background to the tie was Spurs’ change of manager. A week after Spurs’ thrilling victory over West Ham United at Upton Park in the 6th Round George Graham was sacked. David Pleat took temporary charge while the club waited for Glenn Hoddle whose first game in charge was the semi-final at Old Trafford. It started brightly for Spurs with Gary Doherty who had been the hero of earlier rounds with two important goals, giving Spurs the lead. However, Arsenal came more and more into the game and it was only an outstanding display by Neil Sullivan in the Spurs’ goal that kept the score to 2-1 for Spurs’ north London neighbours. While Hoddle’s return to Tottenham was welcome, the timing was not the most appropriate, before such an important game and especially as the players had come together as a team through the Cup run.

Spurs last reached the semi-final stage in 2010 when they faced Portsmouth.  The south coast club were in dire straits facing both relegation and financial problems.  Spurs had defeated Harry Redknapp's old club in both Premier League matches, the last game only a few weeks previously had been an extremely comfortable victory at White Hart Lane.  In the semi-final Portsmouth worked extremely hard throughout and Spurs simply couldn't respond or lift their game.  The game went into extra time and was looking destined for penalties when Portsmouth's goal came courtesy of a Michael Dawson slip on the much criticised new Wembley turf.  He slipped at a vital moment as he was about to clear the ball in the centre of the penalty area.  The ball fell invitingly for Portsmouth who accepted the gift and went on to secure a two goal victory and Spurs felt annoyed with the performance of their team and officials who ruled out both a goal and penalty claims in extra time.  Spurs showed remarkable powers of recovery from this very disappointing performance to produce a run to gain Champions League football for the first time.

Spurs haven't had a successful semi-final since 1991which is a very long period for a club with a Cup reputation but whether this year will be any different is hard to judge with the quest for Champions League football so often taking precedent over the glory of winning the Cup.

The story of the FA Cup, season after season brings dreams that ultimately go unfulfilled but on those few occasions when it all falls into place they are the greatest moments and create lasting memories that carry you through in hope for the seasons that lie ahead.

For the Record:
Tottenham's FA Cup Semi-Final Win and Loss Account:

1901 West Bromwich Albion (Villa Park) Won 4-0 Brown (4)
1921 Preston North End (Hillsborough) Won 2-1 Bliss (2)
 1922 Preston North End (Hillsborough) Lost 1-2 Seed
1948 Blackpool (Villa Park) Lost 1-3 (aet) Duquemin
1953 Blackpool (Villa Park) Lost 1-2 Duquemin
1956 Manchester City (Villa Park) Lost 0-1 
1961 Burnley (Villa Park) Won 3-0 Smith R (2), Jones
1962 Manchester United (Hillsborough) Won 3-1 Greaves, Medwin, Jones 
1967 Nottingham Forest (Hillsborough) Won 2-1 Greaves, Saul
1981 Wolverhampton Wanderers (Hillsborough) Draw 2-2 (aet) Archibald, Hoddle
Replay Wolverhampton Wanderers (Highbury) Won 3-0 Crooks (2), Villa
1982 Leicester City (Villa Park) Won 2-0 Crooks, Opp. o.g.
1987 Watford (Villa Park) won 4-1 Hodge (2), Allen P, Allen C 
1991 Arsenal (Wembley) Won 3-1 Gascoigne, Lineker (2) 
1993 Arsenal (Wembley) Lost 0-1
1995 Everton (Elland Road) Lost 1-4 Klinsmann (p)
1999 Newcastle United (Old Trafford) Lost 0-2 (aet)
 2001 Arsenal (Old Trafford) Lost 1-2 Doherty
2010 Portsmouth (Wembley) Lost 0 - 2 (aet)