Tottenham - 'One Point was all that was Needed'

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

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

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

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

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


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

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


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


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

Tottenham 2 Fulham 0

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

Tottenham Hotspur 2  Fulham 0

Scorers: Adebayor, Defoe

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

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

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

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

[Advantage Spurs for the Champions League]

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

[Advantage Arsenal]

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

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

West Brom drew level against Arsenal.

[Advantage Tottenham]

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

[Advantage Tottenham]

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

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

[Advantage Tottenham]

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

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

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

[Advantage Arsenal]

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

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

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

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

Spurs now face an uncertain period:

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

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

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

   

Spurs' Home Record against Fulham

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

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

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

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

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

Premier League Record at White Hart Lane against Fulham:

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

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

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

Previous Premier League Meetings at White Hart Lane:

Jan. 2010  Won 2 - 0  Crouch, Bentley       

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Biggest Wins:

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

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

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

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

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

  

Tottenham - Final Home Match of the Season

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

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

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

May, 2011

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

It was a Celebration!

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


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


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

Tottenham - the Final Day Conundrum

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

Battle for Champions League finish

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Aston Villa 1 Tottenham 1

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

Aston Villa 1  Tottenham 1

Scorers: Clark                          Adebayor (pen)  

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Spurs' League Record at Villa Park

Spurs will be looking for a third successive win against a relegation threatened side to strengthen their claim for a Champions League place next season which has been boosted by Arsenal's home draw with Norwich City.  With only two Premier League games remaining, the permutations for Champions League qualification continue to intrigue.

Tottenham's recent results at Villa Park have gone a little way to improve their overall record against Aston Villa.  In November, Spurs had a very comfortable two goal success over Villa at White Hart Lane with Emmanuel Adebayor scoring both goals. 

League Record at Villa Park (inc. PL)

P  69  W 20  D  19  L  30  For  91  Ag  106

Away Premier League Record against Villa

P  19  W  3  D  7  L  9  For  16  Ag  25 

Last Season's Result:

Dec. 2010  PL  Won 2 - 1  Van der Vaart (2) 

A goal in each half by Rafael Van der Vaart ensured Spurs' fans enjoyed their Boxing Day journey home.  Van der Vaart brought his total of goals against Villa to four having scored both goals in the 2 - 1 win at White Hart Lane the previous October.  Villa pulled one goal back through Agbonlahor with eight minutes remaining but the result was never in doubt even though Spurs played with ten men for over an hour after Jermain Defoe had been harshly sent off in the 26th minute, three minutes after Van der Vaart had opened the scoring. 

Previous PL Games at Villa Park: 

Nov. 2009  PL  Draw 1 - 1  Dawson

This was one of Spurs' best away performances in many seasons.  Agbonlahor put Villa ahead after ten minutes but Spurs then gained control and in the second half it was wave after wave of Spurs attacks in search of a goal.  It eventually came from Michael Dawson with thirteen minutes remaining.  Spurs continued to seek a goal while Villa with everyone back were just happy to clear the ball and they were the team most relieved to hear the final whistle. 

March, 2009  PL  Won 2 - 1  Jenas, Bent

Jermaine Jenas gave Spurs an early lead and Darren added the second early in the second half.   Villa scored five minutes from time but Spurs secured their first win at Villa Park since January, 2003.  Both Jenas and Bent have since become Villa players - Jenas, on loan this season before serious injury brought it to an end, and Bent following a transfer from Sunderland.

Jan. 2008  PL  Lost 1 - 2  Defoe

Spurs conceded a goal four minutes before half-time from a set-piece.  Defoe equalised with ten minutes left but then conceded another goal from a set-piece five minutes later.

Oct. 2006  PL  Draw 1 - 1  Opp. o.g.

Angel was the a Spurs' hero on the day but a Villa villain as he missed a penalty when Calum Davenport was sent off to reduce Spurs to ten men and then his own goal put them ahead with fifteen minutes remaining.  Villa equalised through Gareth Barry five minutes later.  This was goalkeeper Paul Robinson's first game following his blunder which contributed to England's defeat in Croatia.

Sept. 2005  PL  Draw 1 - 1  Keane

Substitute Robbie Keane released all his frustrations as he struck the ball to bring Spurs level in the second half with twelve minutes left.  Spurs starting line-up contained eleven internationals for the first time.

Nov. 2004  PL  Lost 0 - 1

May, 2004  PL  Lost 0 - 1

Jan. 2003  PL  Won 1 - 0  Sheringham

A Teddy Sheringham goal after seventy minutes secured Spurs first Premier League win at Villa Park.  It was Tottenham's first success there since season 1986-87. 

Aug. 1986  1st Div.  Won 3 - 0  Allen, C. (3)

The opening day of the season and Spurs had the joy of a win and a hat-trick from Clive Allen.  It was the beginning of a tremendous season for Spurs under new manager, David Pleat, when Spurs finished third in the League, were knocked out in the semi-finals of the Littlewoods Cup and lost in the FA Cup Final to Coventry City - the 'nearly-season'.  Clive Allen went on to break Jimmy Greaves' record for goals scored in a season, one that is unlikely to be beaten.  Villa were relegated at the end of the season. 


A Great Run for Spurs at Villa Park:
Spurs' return to 1st Division football in 1950-51 season started a remarkable sequence of results against Aston Villa at Villa Park.  They went eleven seasons without defeat, winning on eight occasions.  The series started with seven consecutive wins from September, 1950 to September, 1956.

Sept. 1950  1st Div.  Won 3 - 2  Murphy, Duquemin, Medley
March, 1952  1st Div.  Won 3 - 0  Walters, Duquemin (2)
Nov. 1952  1st Div.  Won 3 - 0  Bennett, Duquemin, Dicker
Dec. 1953  1st Div.  Won 2 - 1  Walters, Baily
Aug. 1954  1st Div.  Won 4 - 2  Dowsett, Bennett (2), Baily
Nov. 1955  1st Div.  Won 2 - 0  Clarke, McClellan
Sept. 1956  1st Div.  Won 4 - 2  Harmer, Smith, Stokes, Robb

Spurs' First Win at Villa Park:

Tottenham's first League success at Villa Park came in March, 1925 at the eleventh attempt.  The only goal was scored by centre forward Bill Lane.

Biggest Win at Villa Park:

In January, 1934 Spurs won 5 - 1 in a 1st Division game as Spurs finished the season in third position.  The goals were scored by Tom Meads, Jimmy McCormick (2), Les Howe, George Hunt.

As Baggyshorts commented last week on Twitter, 'History counts for nothing' which is of course true but it's interesting to see how Spurs have got on in the past against their opponents.  Third place is now in Spurs' own hands and a win over Aston Villa will put them in control with only one match remaining and to echo David Chambers tweet, 'Our destiny is back in our own hands now.  Please win tomorrow, Spurs!'  

And so say all of us.

Bolton Wanderers 1 Tottenham 4

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

Bolton Wanderers 1 Tottenham Hotspur 4

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

COYS!!

Spurs Record at Bolton

For the third successive match Tottenham face a relegation threatened side.  Spurs lost against QPR at Loftus Road while Blackburn showed no interest but Spurs can rest assured that Bolton Wanderers at the Reebok Stadium will put up greater resistance in a must win match for both sides with Spurs wanting the three points to secure their Champions League place for next season.

Travelling 'up north' has never has never been a favourite venue for any Tottenham team and the Reebok Stadium is a ground where Spurs have yet to win in the Premier League.  Their only win at Bolton during the league during the Premier League era was in season 1995-96, just prior to Bolton's move to their new stadium.  The only successs that Spurs have achieved at the Reebok was in a Carling Cup tie in October, 2004 which they won 4 - 3 after extra time (2 - 2 after ninety minutes).

Spurs' Away League Record against Bolton (inc. PL):

P 43  W  11  D  7  L  25  For  52  Ag  76

Premier League Record at Bolton:

P  12  W  1  D  4  L  7  For  13  Ag  23

Last Season's Result: 

Nov. 2010  PL  Lost 2 - 4  Hutton, Pavlyuchenko

Four days after their stunning win over Inter Milan in the Champions League Spurs were brought back down to earth with a bump at Bolton.  Kevin Davies scored twice, the first from an off-side position and the second from the penalty spot, as Spurs found themselves three down with fourteen minutes remaining.  A mini-revival saw Spurs score twice through Alan Hutton and Roman Pavlyuchenko, only for the home team to score late in added time.

Spurs' Last League Win at Bolton

March, 1996  PL  Won 3 - 2  Howells, Fox, Armstrong

Bolton were relegated at the end of this their first season in the Premier League but having earned their first away point  at White Hart lane in December, coming back from two goals down, they again showed fighting qualities in this match.  Spurs were three ahead with little more than a quarter of the game to go but they had to withstand a barnstorming finish from Bolton to secure the points.  David Howells had given Spurs an early first half lead before Ruel Fox and Chris Armstrong scored two goals in five minutes early in the second half.  Bolton's comeback could have been even better but for a last minute goal line clearance by Clive Wilson from a header by former Spurs player, Gudni Bergsson who had scored the equaliser in the game at Tottenham.

Spurs' Other Premier League Results at Bolton

Oct. 2009  PL  Draw 2 - 2  Kranjcar, Corluka

Bolton grabbed the lead after four minutes but Niko Kranjcar brought them level before the interval.  Davies scored his usual goal against Spurs in the second half but within four minutes Vedran Corluka scored with a header from a corner.

Jan. 2009  PL  Lost 2 - 3  Bent (2)

Half-time substitute, Darren Bent, scored twice in three minutes to bring Spurs level in the second half.  Spurs battling against relegation in Harry Redknapp's first season were a goal down at half-time.  Davies then added a second before Bent struck.  Three minutes from time Davies got his second from a corner leaving the Spurs manager furious at conceding another late goal.

Sept. 2007  PL  Draw 1 - 1  Keane

Robbie Keane gave Spurs the lead after thirty four minutes but within five minutes Bolton had drawn level through Campo.

Aug. 2006  PL  Lost 0 - 2

Spurs' season got off to the worst possible start.  Martin Jol's team simply weren't up for the match and Bolton made them pay for their lethargy with two goals in the first quarter of an hour from Davies and Campo.

Nov. 2005  PL  Lost 0 - 1

A Monday evening match which Bolton won with a goal after half an hour from Nolan.  Jermain Defoe 'equalised' almost immediately but was incorrectly flagged off-side. 

Feb. 2005  PL  Lost 1 - 3  Defoe

All the goals came in the second half.  Bolton went ahead with a penalty just after the interval but Defoe equalised with about twenty minutes remaining.  Two goals in the final three minutes gave Bolton the points with Davies scoring again.

April, 2004  PL  Lost 0 - 2

A goal in each half saw Spurs' poor run continue, having taken only five points from nine matches - with only three goals in the last eight games, one an own goal.

March, 2003  PL  Lost 0 - 1

A penalty in the final minute brought the points to Bolton.

April, 2002  PL  Draw 1 - 1  Iversen

Steffan Iversen gave Spurs an early lead but Bolton took a point with a goal twenty minutes from time.

Sept. 1997  PL  Draw 1 - 1  Armstrong

Bolton scored the first goal at their new Reebok Stadium after two previous scoreless draws.  They went ahead with a penalty after twenty minutes but substitute Chris Armstrong brought Spurs level in the second half and Ian Walker played a big part in Spurs taking a point from this match - described in one match report as 'the only Spurs player who can take any credit'.

A Long Time Ago:

Spurs won their first two League games at Bolton.  The clubs met in Tottenham's first season in the Football League in January, 1909.  It was a 2nd Division match which Spurs won thanks to a goal from Bobby Steel.  Both clubs gained promotion at the end of that season but when they met in the 1st Division in April, 2010 in the penultimate match of the season it was a relegation battle.  Spurs triumphed with two goals by Percy Humphreys and that victory saw Bolton relegated but Spurs survived by beating Chelsea the following week.  That result saw Chelsea go down with Humphreys scoring the winner against his former club.  Spurs then lost their next six matches at Bolton.