For those that were under the illusion that we'd given up the ghost of letting in late, heartbreaking goals, look away now. With minutes remaining yesterday, we tossed away the chance of a fine win at Birmingham and were forced to settle for a soul-crushing point. Jermain Defoe's second half strike, allied with a good away performance from the whole side, looked to have provided an impressive win at a ground where the home side hadn't lost at since September. But defensive frailties allowed the Blues to snatch a late leveller and break the hearts of Spurs fan up and down the land.
It's a familiar story: Spurs play tough opponents, produce good display, take the lead deservedly, throw it away at the death. We turned off in the 96th minute against Leeds and it cost us dearly. And, alas, as Birmingham threw what they had at us, we again closed our eyes for long enough for them capitalise. It was Vedran Corluka, you'd have to say, whose mistake allowed the Liam Ridgewell in, just as it was Michael Dawson's aberration against Leeds. And as you'd expect all Spurs fans to have forgiven Dawson, we must also expect similar forgiveness for Corluka.
In conversation with a friend earlier, I arrived at the conclusion that he is, at least, one of the five best right backs in the Premier League. He is no worse than the likes of Bacary Sagna, Glen Johnson, Micah Richards or Wes Brown/whoever Man Utd play at right back these days. The only man I could think of who is evidently superior to him is Bosingwa, who bosses the right flank at Chelsea due to their lack of natural width. Corluka usually plays in tandem with Aaron Lennon, whose pace and wing play means that there is less emphasis on Corluka to bomb forward. But he has shown himself to be capable of such feats.
Where Corluka is successful is his no frills attitude towards defending. He does his job in an organised and efficient manner, not making a fuss and clearing his lines with regularity. He holds his own in one-on-one contests, having the pace to be able to keep up with the quickest of opponents and the nous to know when to back off. Watching him against Fulham the other night, he was almost innocuous, so complete was his game. That Fulham rarely threatened is of no consequence; Corluka wasn't troubled at all as he dealt with the aerial attack from the away side with consummate ease.
Where Corluka needs to pick his game up is the individual lapses in concentration, perfectly exhibited at St. Andrews. Instead of paying attention to his man (Ridgewell) he allowed himself to follow the ball and when it came back in, he had lost his man and presented a simple chance to score. If he ever wants to elevate himself to the status of the league's very best, then this is where he'll need to improve. Concentration errors are commonplace for defenders but the very best ones eradicate them from their games. Ledley King is a fine example for Corluka to follow. A player who rarely takes his eye off the ball, King is always aware of the state of the game and the positioning of the players. He is seldom caught out when the pressure is on and as he has matured so has his powers of concentration.
For Spurs to be considered on of the league's best sides, they'll need to have some of the league's best players. And whilst new players can solve that problem, it is far better, not to mention cheaper, for current players to step it up a notch and Corluka is certainly capable of this. For defenders there can be no greater compliment that the fact that their good displays go unnoticed as it means they have been untroubled. And Corluka's is one of the league's most under-rated players. If he can continue the rapid improvement he has shown since joining Spurs, he could transform himself into one the division's best. And what a thing that'd be.
31 January 2010
28 January 2010
Good idea on Gudjohnsen
Harry's snared his first January victim. Eidur Gudjohnsen has been snapped up on a loan deal until the end of the season. Well, there's been nothing official on the Spurs site but the media are choc full of quotes from Redknapp, claiming it's a done deal. Apparently, he plays for Monaco? Call me ignorant but I had no idea and neither did several friends - we thought he still played for Barcelona. But I digress.
It's an extremely shrewd signing. His title winning experience at both Chelsea and Barcelona is invaluable and will come in handy, especially seeing as we have a little end-of-season chase going on of our own. He's a player we've publicly coveted in the past, when he was at Chelsea, and his goalscoring record and ability to link the midfield and attack is undeniable.
His arrival could mean the imminent departure of Roman Pavlyuchenko. A groin injury has put paid to any chances of a move over the last week but with Birmingham now sniffing around and the continued interested from teams in Russia, it appears his exit is nearing.
We'll have to wait for the official word on Gudjohnsen's signing but it should be safe to assume he'll slot into the squad for the Birmingham game at the weekend, should the deal go through in time. And we all assumed Harry was going to keep completely quiet over January. Of course he wasn't.
It's an extremely shrewd signing. His title winning experience at both Chelsea and Barcelona is invaluable and will come in handy, especially seeing as we have a little end-of-season chase going on of our own. He's a player we've publicly coveted in the past, when he was at Chelsea, and his goalscoring record and ability to link the midfield and attack is undeniable.
His arrival could mean the imminent departure of Roman Pavlyuchenko. A groin injury has put paid to any chances of a move over the last week but with Birmingham now sniffing around and the continued interested from teams in Russia, it appears his exit is nearing.
We'll have to wait for the official word on Gudjohnsen's signing but it should be safe to assume he'll slot into the squad for the Birmingham game at the weekend, should the deal go through in time. And we all assumed Harry was going to keep completely quiet over January. Of course he wasn't.
Back on the right path?
Fulham came. And didn't offer much of note by way of attack. Their one forward up front approach meant that they were only likely to threaten sporadically, especially against a resolute back line that had been in miserly form of late. Spurs played not entirely at their best but well enough to see off their London neighbours and claim a precious three points that ended a spell of relative turmoil.
Who was good then? All of them gave a positive account of themselves but special mention must be given to Luka Modric, who is fast confirming his growing reputation as a playmaking genius. His touch is a thing to behold and the way he sprays balls about and finds room for other players is a rare and precious commodity. Sceptics need only observe his outrageous assist for Peter Crouch's opener. Chasing what appeared like a lost cause, Modric won a ball he had no right to claim and scissor kicked a pass through to Crouch, who was left with the regulation task of lifting it over the keeper.
And all this after the game was threatening to descend into another catalogue of missed Tottenham chances. Tom Huddlestone, back in the side after injury, was first to have a go when he fired an extremely powerful early shot that Mark Schwarzer did very well to turn wide. It may have been straight at the keeper but it was struck with a venom quite difficult to believe and could easily have crept in. Spurs had the lions share of possession, as you'd expect at White Hart Lane, but were unable to turn their control of the ball into goals. Jermain Defoe worked his socks off but was kept quiet by the Fulham defence who stuck to him like glue and crowded him out of the game. So it came as no surprise that the relief around the Lane when Crouch poked home was tangible.
Gareth Bale had another fine game, marauding up and down the left flank with increasing authority but remaining mindful of his defensive responsibilities. And, speaking of defensive responsibilities, Michael Dawson had a stormer of a game. High balls were headed clear with fierce determination. Encroaching runs were brought to an end with swift and decisive tackles. The only thing he did badly was a succession of truly terrible long balls forward where it seemed like he was purposely trying to surrender possession. A ball playing central defender he certainly isn't. A couple of odd moments towards the end didn't matter too much as he delivered yet another defensive masterclass, so much so that the returning Ledley King's faultless display went largely unnoticed.
Illness to Niko Kranjcar gave Harry Redknapp to perfect opportunity to allow David Bentley a spell in the shop window and, although he scored a deflected free-kick, his performance wasn't all that sales-worthy. Too many flashy tricks and flicks, an abundance of poor crosses, an overuse of attempted Hollywood passes... Bentley seemed to be playing for his own benefit and not for that of the team. He wasn't terrible, not by any stretch of the imagination, but, put simply, he was no Aaron Lennon. The sooner the little winger returns, the better, and, as for Bentley, it appears only a matter of time before a club feels pity on him and snaps him up. His days at the Lane are numbered.
A regulation victory it was and it meant for a less than cacophonous atmosphere - one of the loudest cheers in the game was reserved for the entrance of ex-Spur Simon Davies, who was afforded a generous round of applause. The crowd were also in fine voice when informed that Liverpool had been held to a draw at Wolves. A growing rivalry exists between Spurs and Liverpool, fuelled by the mutual desire for that coveted fourth spot and the manner of Liverpool's gloating after their 2-0 victory over us last week. At the risk of doing my best Kevin Keegan impersonation, I would love it if we beat them. Their days of whining about perceived injustices and living off Champions League glories are over. Welcome to the rest of the league.
Spurs stay fourth and have pushed themselves a couple of points in front of the chasing pack. But stiffer tests await and with Birmingham away next being one of those tests, Spurs will need to keep themselves on this winning road and not allow themselves to slip into the mire of last week. With Lennon returning soon, they must be optimistic. We're getting into the excruciatingly important part of the season, folks. Hold on tight.
Who was good then? All of them gave a positive account of themselves but special mention must be given to Luka Modric, who is fast confirming his growing reputation as a playmaking genius. His touch is a thing to behold and the way he sprays balls about and finds room for other players is a rare and precious commodity. Sceptics need only observe his outrageous assist for Peter Crouch's opener. Chasing what appeared like a lost cause, Modric won a ball he had no right to claim and scissor kicked a pass through to Crouch, who was left with the regulation task of lifting it over the keeper.
And all this after the game was threatening to descend into another catalogue of missed Tottenham chances. Tom Huddlestone, back in the side after injury, was first to have a go when he fired an extremely powerful early shot that Mark Schwarzer did very well to turn wide. It may have been straight at the keeper but it was struck with a venom quite difficult to believe and could easily have crept in. Spurs had the lions share of possession, as you'd expect at White Hart Lane, but were unable to turn their control of the ball into goals. Jermain Defoe worked his socks off but was kept quiet by the Fulham defence who stuck to him like glue and crowded him out of the game. So it came as no surprise that the relief around the Lane when Crouch poked home was tangible.
Gareth Bale had another fine game, marauding up and down the left flank with increasing authority but remaining mindful of his defensive responsibilities. And, speaking of defensive responsibilities, Michael Dawson had a stormer of a game. High balls were headed clear with fierce determination. Encroaching runs were brought to an end with swift and decisive tackles. The only thing he did badly was a succession of truly terrible long balls forward where it seemed like he was purposely trying to surrender possession. A ball playing central defender he certainly isn't. A couple of odd moments towards the end didn't matter too much as he delivered yet another defensive masterclass, so much so that the returning Ledley King's faultless display went largely unnoticed.
Illness to Niko Kranjcar gave Harry Redknapp to perfect opportunity to allow David Bentley a spell in the shop window and, although he scored a deflected free-kick, his performance wasn't all that sales-worthy. Too many flashy tricks and flicks, an abundance of poor crosses, an overuse of attempted Hollywood passes... Bentley seemed to be playing for his own benefit and not for that of the team. He wasn't terrible, not by any stretch of the imagination, but, put simply, he was no Aaron Lennon. The sooner the little winger returns, the better, and, as for Bentley, it appears only a matter of time before a club feels pity on him and snaps him up. His days at the Lane are numbered.
A regulation victory it was and it meant for a less than cacophonous atmosphere - one of the loudest cheers in the game was reserved for the entrance of ex-Spur Simon Davies, who was afforded a generous round of applause. The crowd were also in fine voice when informed that Liverpool had been held to a draw at Wolves. A growing rivalry exists between Spurs and Liverpool, fuelled by the mutual desire for that coveted fourth spot and the manner of Liverpool's gloating after their 2-0 victory over us last week. At the risk of doing my best Kevin Keegan impersonation, I would love it if we beat them. Their days of whining about perceived injustices and living off Champions League glories are over. Welcome to the rest of the league.
Spurs stay fourth and have pushed themselves a couple of points in front of the chasing pack. But stiffer tests await and with Birmingham away next being one of those tests, Spurs will need to keep themselves on this winning road and not allow themselves to slip into the mire of last week. With Lennon returning soon, they must be optimistic. We're getting into the excruciatingly important part of the season, folks. Hold on tight.
23 January 2010
The worst day since yesterday (kind of)
I'm fed up of complaining. Why can't we have something good and positive to wax lyrical about? It's been all doom and gloom these last few weeks and I'm here to tell you all that I've had enough. Let's cut straight to the important parts, shall we?
Defoe's penalty miss
This made me livid.That sinking feeling that I felt just before he stepped up in the dying moments against Everton was replicated weeks later. There's something in his run up that just reeks of bad technique and under-confidence. He was always going to miss the bloody thing. Too straight, not nearly enough power and the rest is a sorry tale of missed opportunities. And all after we had started the game so impressively.
Defoe's penalty miss
This made me livid.That sinking feeling that I felt just before he stepped up in the dying moments against Everton was replicated weeks later. There's something in his run up that just reeks of bad technique and under-confidence. He was always going to miss the bloody thing. Too straight, not nearly enough power and the rest is a sorry tale of missed opportunities. And all after we had started the game so impressively.
Casper Ankergren
If truth be told, I'm quite tired of playing goalkeepers who are in annoyingly supreme form. We were rewarded with a plethora of direct free kicks on the edge of the box and as well as Gareth Bale and Niko Kranjcar struck them, the keeper kept them out time and time again. Why couldn't they just lie down and let us score? Defoe's clever lob was tipped over the bar. His snap shot after a rebounded free-kick was rejected by an errant defender on the line. Everything we tried was in vain. It was disconcerting, especially in the knowledge that if we didn't score soon, our players would likely panic. Bloody away keepers.
Danny Rose
His inclusion in the side came as a surprise but it was a clever move to give the kid a run out. In truth, however, he looked just a tiny fraction out of his depth and it was no surprise when he was sacrificed for Wilson Palacios early in the second half. He did look quick, though, and with a natural left foot, his prospects can only be good. He also won the penalty that Defoe squandered so there's no need for transfer fees to be discussed just yet. One for the future.
Gareth Bale
I thought he was very impressive. With the inexperienced Rose ahead of him, he sensed the need to seize some attacking impetus and had a number of probing runs and crosses. His style of play is very easy on the eye and, when in good touch, he can be a joy to watch. He worked very hard for the opening goal, too, using his pace to beat his man then cleverly looking up to locate Kranjcar, lurking on the edge of the box. He even looked solid enough at the back for the first time in a while and, at times, was something of a commanding presence. Who knew? One of his better games in a Spurs shirt and proof that there's life in the old (he's still only 20) dog yet.
The opening goal
Peter Crouch. God bless that man. Bale's ingenuity created the chance for Kranjcar, who was denied yet again by Ankergren. But mad respect goes out for Crouch, who stuck out a determined boot and quickly steered the rebound home to give Spurs a lead they richly deserved and one that settled many a nerve in the home crowd.
Jermaine Beckford
Not that it was to last very long, however. Straight after the restart, elementary defending, notably from the lacklustre Jermaine Jenas, presented Beckford with the chance to poke home and he duly took it. He'd earlier gone close by testing out Gomes (who had a fine game, by the way) with a couple of shots from the edge of the box. He looked good, did Beckford - one of those strikers who keeps himself quite anonymous for the majority of the game and then crops up when it matters. He certainly cropped up in the last minute. The bastard.
ITV
I've moaned about their coverage before and I've no hesitation in doing it again. They were DESPERATE for Leeds to score. Desperate. The commentary was full of bullsh*t about 'plucky Leeds' and how brave they'd been in holding us level, where in truth, we had battered them and just not scored. When Beckford equalised, the elation was tangible in the commentator's voice. I wouldn't have been surprised to see Jim Beglin sprinting onto the field to celebrate with the Leeds players. You can't blame them for wanting the lower league team to perform and maybe cause an upset. But this bias was just a step or two too far. Come the World Cup, I'll be switching to BBC.
Roman Pavlyuchenko
Who? The Russian striker emerged from the bench (and from his season-long anonymity) along with Robbie Keane and quickly changed the game. Palacios' run down the left was determined and as he laid the ball inside, Pavlyuchenko stepped over the pass and ran on to collect Defoe's immediate through ball and slot the ball into the corner of the net. It was his first goal since netting at Doncaster in August and he looked visibly happy, tossing his Spurs gloves into the crowd in celebration. Did Harry bring him on to put him in the shop window? Probably. But, coming from someone who's been a long time admirer of the Russian, it was thrilling to see him score. Perhaps it's the catalyst for a long and successful Spurs career? I won't be holding my breath for too long.
That damn last minute
We had it sewn up. 2-1 up with hardly any time to play and Leeds looking bedraggled. No more surprises, let's just play this one out quietly. What's that? 5 minutes of added on time? A bit strange, that. I don't seem to remember there being that many stoppages but never mind. Just keep your heads, boys. That's it. Don't go in for any rash fouls. It's alright, Daws. He's go the ball but just shepherd him out to the line and let him make his own mistake. Don't go lunging in or anything like that... no! No. You're having a laugh. He's won the ball, hasn't he? Or has he? Damnit. He's put the penalty away easily.
The supremely annoying thing is that whether Dawson won the ball or not (and he probably did), it was the kind of tackle that's asking for trouble. He shouldn't have been lunging in when there was just a matter of seconds left on the clock. It was always going to end in tears and as Beckford dispatched the penalty and ran off to the hordes of delirious Leeds fans, celebrating in their cup final, a massive sense of angry disappointment hung over White Hart Lane like a bad spirit, reminding both the players and fans of what they may have just thrown away.
Next?
An annoying replay at Elland Road. Not a massively tough game - if memory serves, we won 1-0 last time we played there, about seven years ago. But it's certainly a tricky encounter and it's one that we don't really need clogging up our schedule. The outcome of the 5th round draw could very well determine the focus of the players heading into the replay. A favourable draw could just make them play their hearts out and ensure progression. But that's to worry about later on. For a game that we played fairly well in, a 2-2 draw is a galling result and one that may linger with the players for a little bit. Redknapp simply needs to get them to start taking their chances or the early promise of this season will quickly slip away into mediocrity. A familiar story, if ever there was one.
As for the players, Luka Modric, along with Bale, was very good. Clearly revelling in a central position, he was afforded a license to roam and to make his own position. His touch on the ball was sublime and he was able to make space for himself and others with consummate ease. His performance alone warranted a win. What a shame the his teammates couldn't concentrate for a few seconds longer.
Fulham at the Lane on Tuesday, where one will expect collective ideas to bucked up.
The next step on the path to Wembley
With our top four chase fluctuating, there's a very real chance that the F.A. Cup may represent our only chance of genuine success this season. Of course, such success is still months away. But victory today over Leeds would take us a good step closer. Our apparent blase attitude towards the cup is no doubt a result of being drawn with Man Utd at this stage for the last few seasons. With Utd and Liverpool already dumped out, however, there lies a better chance than normal that we could engineer a path to Wembley.
Leeds today won't be walkovers, however. Conquerors of fierce rivals Utd in the last round, they'll no doubt arrive at the Lane in buoyant mood and the game being televised, expect a tasty little atmosphere. Want-away striker Jermain Beckford is the most dangerous threat - he may have withdrawn his transfer request but make no mistake that he sees his future elsewhere - and Michael Dawson will have a task on his hands keeping him quiet.
However dangerous they may appear to be, however, we should still be aware that they are only a League One side. Beckford is talented but lacks experience against high quality opposition, as do the majority of their side. If we keep our heads and get the basics right, we shouldn't have too many problems. This is Tottenham, though, and you can bank on a couple of players losing their heads should we not score inside 10 minutes. These types of games are often troublesome: they appear straightforward but the lack of immediate progress sometimes makes players panic. It'll be a time for senior players to step up and ensure calm focus from everyone around them.
Win this one and we're already in the last 16. Tougher games will surely need to be negotiated along the way - even Pompey had to beat Man Utd on their perceived easy road to Wembley in 2008. But should the draw be frequently kind to us and should lower sides keep picking off Premier League opposition, we could have an opportunity to have a real crack at a run to the Final. And wouldn't that be nice after a handful of League Cup final appearances lately?
Sooner or later, Redknapp will have a big decision on his hands. Pile his resources into a top four chase or throw everything into winning the cup? He could conceivably do both... but if it becomes clear that fourth place is growing more elusive then perhaps his decision will be made for him.
Leeds today won't be walkovers, however. Conquerors of fierce rivals Utd in the last round, they'll no doubt arrive at the Lane in buoyant mood and the game being televised, expect a tasty little atmosphere. Want-away striker Jermain Beckford is the most dangerous threat - he may have withdrawn his transfer request but make no mistake that he sees his future elsewhere - and Michael Dawson will have a task on his hands keeping him quiet.
However dangerous they may appear to be, however, we should still be aware that they are only a League One side. Beckford is talented but lacks experience against high quality opposition, as do the majority of their side. If we keep our heads and get the basics right, we shouldn't have too many problems. This is Tottenham, though, and you can bank on a couple of players losing their heads should we not score inside 10 minutes. These types of games are often troublesome: they appear straightforward but the lack of immediate progress sometimes makes players panic. It'll be a time for senior players to step up and ensure calm focus from everyone around them.
Win this one and we're already in the last 16. Tougher games will surely need to be negotiated along the way - even Pompey had to beat Man Utd on their perceived easy road to Wembley in 2008. But should the draw be frequently kind to us and should lower sides keep picking off Premier League opposition, we could have an opportunity to have a real crack at a run to the Final. And wouldn't that be nice after a handful of League Cup final appearances lately?
Sooner or later, Redknapp will have a big decision on his hands. Pile his resources into a top four chase or throw everything into winning the cup? He could conceivably do both... but if it becomes clear that fourth place is growing more elusive then perhaps his decision will be made for him.
22 January 2010
Tax evasion and Dirk Kuyt - one bad week for Harry
'How the f*ck did we let that useless Dutch bastard score twice?'
20 January 2010
Let's ruin Rafa
Of all the times we've been up to Liverpool in recent years, tonight's game represents by far the greatest opportunity to finally snatch all three points. Anfield is a ground that traditionally holds little fear for us in recent years. We've not set the place alight, so to speak, but we've had more than our fair share of draws - I'll forever be haunted by that 2-2 in the final few weeks of Martin Jol's reign, where we were seconds from victory. Bloody Torres.
Tonight, however, is an altogether different prospect. We're the form team. We're the ones in a higher league position. We're not the ones in crisis. It's an odd feeling when another team is suffering from problems usually associated with Spurs but it's one that I'm sure many fans will be able to live with. Liverpool, bereft of their two best players in Torres and Gerrard and bereft of any kind of form or momentum, are there for the taking.
This isn't to say that we should go up there and walk all over them. 'Beware a wounded animal' and all that. But there's certainly a big chance to have a huge say on the race for fourth place and a win at Anfield would lay down a big fat top four credential, the likes of which would have Aston Villa and Man City quivering with trepidation. Well, not quite quivering, but they'd certainly take notice.
We've done a sterling job in these six-pointers so far this season. Villa were on the receiving end of a fine performance that promised a win but ultimately only delivered a fighting point. Man City were comprehensively routed by a masterclass from Aaron Lennon and Niko Kranjcar in December. And we can all remember the opening day win over tonight's opposition that set the whole top four ball rolling. Liverpool will still be dangerous tonight - the likes of Aquilani, Mascherano, Kuyt and new signing Maxi Rodriguez still represent a genuine and difficult threat. But their current confidence and lack of a certain world class goal scorer and central midfielder means that they'll be fearing us perhaps a shade more than we'll be fearing them.
And they've every right to fear us. Spurs will be without Aaron Lennon - that pesky groin injury - and there are doubts over the fitness of Tom Huddlestone and Ledley King. But other than that, it's a strong squad as always. Jamie O'Hara returns from his loan stint at sinking ship Portsmouth and will likely slot in on the bench should Hudds be unavailable. Jermaine Jenas could be line for a rare start and it could hopefully stoke the fires of determination inside of him. Robbie Keane's average outing against Hull will likely see him demoted to the bench in place of Peter Crouch. At least Liverpool will be facing one ex-striker from the off. Should Keane get onto the pitch, it's conceivable that he'll want to deliver against the team where he failed miserably.
Gareth Bale will continue on the left of defence and it'll be a stern examination of his defensive technique. This won't be like facing Nick Barmby or Stephen Hunt on a relatively calm Saturday at the Lane - this will be an entirely different challenge. Luka Modric will continue on the right of midfield opposite his compatriot Niko Kranjcar. Both players like to come inside and aren't really natural wingers - this isn't necessarily a problem but it does require a bit of attacking nous and width from both Bale and Vedran Corluka. And up front, alongside the aforementioned Crouch, will be Jermain Defoe. If ever he needed to produce a clinical display of finishing ala Wigan, it's tonight.
Tottenham won't be going to Anfield thinking they'll rout Liverpool; such thinking is far too blase. But it says a lot for the development of this team that they can now travel away to Liverpool and have a genuine chance of victory. Of course, Liverpool aren't as strong as they could be but you can only beat what's in front of you and if they get their mindset right straight away, Spurs have a fine chance of doing just that. It could well be one of the games that defines the top four race.
Tonight, however, is an altogether different prospect. We're the form team. We're the ones in a higher league position. We're not the ones in crisis. It's an odd feeling when another team is suffering from problems usually associated with Spurs but it's one that I'm sure many fans will be able to live with. Liverpool, bereft of their two best players in Torres and Gerrard and bereft of any kind of form or momentum, are there for the taking.
This isn't to say that we should go up there and walk all over them. 'Beware a wounded animal' and all that. But there's certainly a big chance to have a huge say on the race for fourth place and a win at Anfield would lay down a big fat top four credential, the likes of which would have Aston Villa and Man City quivering with trepidation. Well, not quite quivering, but they'd certainly take notice.
We've done a sterling job in these six-pointers so far this season. Villa were on the receiving end of a fine performance that promised a win but ultimately only delivered a fighting point. Man City were comprehensively routed by a masterclass from Aaron Lennon and Niko Kranjcar in December. And we can all remember the opening day win over tonight's opposition that set the whole top four ball rolling. Liverpool will still be dangerous tonight - the likes of Aquilani, Mascherano, Kuyt and new signing Maxi Rodriguez still represent a genuine and difficult threat. But their current confidence and lack of a certain world class goal scorer and central midfielder means that they'll be fearing us perhaps a shade more than we'll be fearing them.
And they've every right to fear us. Spurs will be without Aaron Lennon - that pesky groin injury - and there are doubts over the fitness of Tom Huddlestone and Ledley King. But other than that, it's a strong squad as always. Jamie O'Hara returns from his loan stint at sinking ship Portsmouth and will likely slot in on the bench should Hudds be unavailable. Jermaine Jenas could be line for a rare start and it could hopefully stoke the fires of determination inside of him. Robbie Keane's average outing against Hull will likely see him demoted to the bench in place of Peter Crouch. At least Liverpool will be facing one ex-striker from the off. Should Keane get onto the pitch, it's conceivable that he'll want to deliver against the team where he failed miserably.
Gareth Bale will continue on the left of defence and it'll be a stern examination of his defensive technique. This won't be like facing Nick Barmby or Stephen Hunt on a relatively calm Saturday at the Lane - this will be an entirely different challenge. Luka Modric will continue on the right of midfield opposite his compatriot Niko Kranjcar. Both players like to come inside and aren't really natural wingers - this isn't necessarily a problem but it does require a bit of attacking nous and width from both Bale and Vedran Corluka. And up front, alongside the aforementioned Crouch, will be Jermain Defoe. If ever he needed to produce a clinical display of finishing ala Wigan, it's tonight.
Tottenham won't be going to Anfield thinking they'll rout Liverpool; such thinking is far too blase. But it says a lot for the development of this team that they can now travel away to Liverpool and have a genuine chance of victory. Of course, Liverpool aren't as strong as they could be but you can only beat what's in front of you and if they get their mindset right straight away, Spurs have a fine chance of doing just that. It could well be one of the games that defines the top four race.
17 January 2010
Hell against Hull
Not good enough. Just not good enough, dammit. If, come the end of the season, Harry Redknapp's charges are sat in the away dressing room at Burnley and feeling sorry for themselves, then they'd be wise to look back on this game and those against Stoke and Wolves as an indication on why they did not succeed. Because should Spurs finish outside of the top four this season, these results will be to blame.
Perhaps we should be thankful for small mercies. We did get at least a point out of this one.
'We should be winning games like this this' is a tired, tired line and myself and other bloggers are doubtless reluctant to churn it out again. But it's so valid. It's all well and good beating your Man City's and your Liverpool's - if we can't get the basic, expected points that keep our top four ship sailing at pace, then that ship will soon sink and our lofty ambitions will drown. The situation is more frustrating when you think what we did to them back at their place in August. We went top of the flamin' league as a result of that win! Half a season later and we're still up there but the pressure on us is very much self-inflicted.
Mind you, at least we managed to throw a few shots on target and actually test their keeper. Their bloody, superhuman, monster of a keeper, Boaz Myhill. He must have looked at his fixture list and thought 'Yeah, I think I'll have my greatest ever game against Spurs in January - that should annoy them'. Credit where credit is due and, in this case, it's due more than ever. Myhill single-handedly denied us a win with a plethora of stunning, acrobatic saves. Relentless Tottenham pressure seemed to have no effect on him as he pulled off miracles time and time again. They should give him the freedom of Hull for that display and that display alone.
Defoe, Keane, Modric, Crouch, Palacios. All tried their luck against the away goal and all were denied, each one more stunningly than the next. You can argue that Spurs should have been clinical enough to put at least one chance away. Or you can just tip your hat to Myhill's wonderful display and admit you feel slightly lucky to have witnessed such a performance. It was akin to the Berlin Wall, lined across his goal. Impenetreble.
Back to Tottenham though and the return of Aaron Lennon soonish would be quite welcome. With Luka Modric and Niko Kranjcar on the wings, we still create good opportunities and are able to play with genuine flair. But Lennon is our one player who drives real fear into the opposition when he picks up the ball. His very presence is like a tonic for defensive uncoordination. His participation in future games is still anyone's guess but the sooner he returns, the better.
We kept another clean sheet - that's five in a row in the league, six in all (YES!) - so at least the defence isn't suffering. Gareth Bale has slotted in at left back and now has a superb opportunity to work on his game and to prove that he is actually a defender, not just an occasionally gifted winger. Time will tell on that one. Michael Dawson continues to lead the defence, and often, the side, with lionhearted determination and put in a good shift today. He often reminds me of John Terry - strong, brave, full of heart and technically gifted. The comparisons stop there, though - Dawson doesn't scream abuse at referees or take money for arranging tours of the club training ground half as much as the England captain does.
Before I sound too praiseworthy, I'll revert to criticism. Spurs need to pull their collective fingers out and start making good their talent. They've got a fantastic chance of a top four place this season, what with Liverpool's various calamities and Man City's inconsistencies. Now is as good a time as ever. It's obvious that the boys are trying their best and one hates to be too critical after a five game unbeaten run but games still need to be won and they won't come much easier than Hull at home. The two week hiatus from playing is something of an excuse but there isn't much time left and chances like this need to be grabbed with both hands.
The atmosphere in that dressing room away at Burnley on the last day of the season will very much be determined by the efforts of the players in the coming months. Time to step it up and deliver.
Perhaps we should be thankful for small mercies. We did get at least a point out of this one.
'We should be winning games like this this' is a tired, tired line and myself and other bloggers are doubtless reluctant to churn it out again. But it's so valid. It's all well and good beating your Man City's and your Liverpool's - if we can't get the basic, expected points that keep our top four ship sailing at pace, then that ship will soon sink and our lofty ambitions will drown. The situation is more frustrating when you think what we did to them back at their place in August. We went top of the flamin' league as a result of that win! Half a season later and we're still up there but the pressure on us is very much self-inflicted.
Mind you, at least we managed to throw a few shots on target and actually test their keeper. Their bloody, superhuman, monster of a keeper, Boaz Myhill. He must have looked at his fixture list and thought 'Yeah, I think I'll have my greatest ever game against Spurs in January - that should annoy them'. Credit where credit is due and, in this case, it's due more than ever. Myhill single-handedly denied us a win with a plethora of stunning, acrobatic saves. Relentless Tottenham pressure seemed to have no effect on him as he pulled off miracles time and time again. They should give him the freedom of Hull for that display and that display alone.
Defoe, Keane, Modric, Crouch, Palacios. All tried their luck against the away goal and all were denied, each one more stunningly than the next. You can argue that Spurs should have been clinical enough to put at least one chance away. Or you can just tip your hat to Myhill's wonderful display and admit you feel slightly lucky to have witnessed such a performance. It was akin to the Berlin Wall, lined across his goal. Impenetreble.
Back to Tottenham though and the return of Aaron Lennon soonish would be quite welcome. With Luka Modric and Niko Kranjcar on the wings, we still create good opportunities and are able to play with genuine flair. But Lennon is our one player who drives real fear into the opposition when he picks up the ball. His very presence is like a tonic for defensive uncoordination. His participation in future games is still anyone's guess but the sooner he returns, the better.
We kept another clean sheet - that's five in a row in the league, six in all (YES!) - so at least the defence isn't suffering. Gareth Bale has slotted in at left back and now has a superb opportunity to work on his game and to prove that he is actually a defender, not just an occasionally gifted winger. Time will tell on that one. Michael Dawson continues to lead the defence, and often, the side, with lionhearted determination and put in a good shift today. He often reminds me of John Terry - strong, brave, full of heart and technically gifted. The comparisons stop there, though - Dawson doesn't scream abuse at referees or take money for arranging tours of the club training ground half as much as the England captain does.
Before I sound too praiseworthy, I'll revert to criticism. Spurs need to pull their collective fingers out and start making good their talent. They've got a fantastic chance of a top four place this season, what with Liverpool's various calamities and Man City's inconsistencies. Now is as good a time as ever. It's obvious that the boys are trying their best and one hates to be too critical after a five game unbeaten run but games still need to be won and they won't come much easier than Hull at home. The two week hiatus from playing is something of an excuse but there isn't much time left and chances like this need to be grabbed with both hands.
The atmosphere in that dressing room away at Burnley on the last day of the season will very much be determined by the efforts of the players in the coming months. Time to step it up and deliver.
14 January 2010
Redknapp charged with tax evasion
'Arry's copping it from the pigs. It's all coming out. Damn Portsmouth and their shoddy business sense. Damn Redknapp and his shoddy business sense.
Two counts of tax evasion, he's been charged with, and he'll appear at Wesminster Magistrates' Court on February 11th. That'll do nicely for our hopes of having a settled preparation for the next few crucial months. Whatever Redknapp's sins are, we must be thankful that they're for indiscretions committed in conjunction with another football club. So far, and it's a gargantuan 'so far', nothing has been linked to us.
At least he's playing along, according to his solicitor: "Harry has co-operated fully with investigators during the course of this inquiry and is confident of a successful outcome to these court proceedings." (source: BBC)
Two counts of tax evasion, he's been charged with, and he'll appear at Wesminster Magistrates' Court on February 11th. That'll do nicely for our hopes of having a settled preparation for the next few crucial months. Whatever Redknapp's sins are, we must be thankful that they're for indiscretions committed in conjunction with another football club. So far, and it's a gargantuan 'so far', nothing has been linked to us.
At least he's playing along, according to his solicitor: "Harry has co-operated fully with investigators during the course of this inquiry and is confident of a successful outcome to these court proceedings." (source: BBC)
Keep an eye on this one.
Welcome back Judas
Arsenal are signing a defender from Notts County. Stop the presses: they're definitely going to get some silverware this season with this shrewd addition.
I've nothing against Campbell. Scratch that: the man's morals are despicable and I can't stand him. But putting my own and I'm sure scores of Spurs fans' feelings to one side, at 35 he's surely not the answer to their many prayers. They're in need of a tough centre midfielder, a reliable striker, a honest set of players and some testicles so that they can win tough away games. But a knackered old has-been is surely not the way.
But I'm hardly complaining. Let him go back. And let them get their hopes up about coming 3rd this season. Their traditional late season slump is just one defeat away.
I'm aware how bitter this all sounds. What can I say? When you live in the hideous shadow of your equally hideous neighbours then it makes one a little vengeful. They may have it better than us at the moment and they may have enjoyed this superiority for the best part of the last 15/20 years. But the days of Gooner invincibility are long gone. If we learn to keep a manager for longer than three years, we might soon be able to effectively compete. Chins up and all that.
COYS.
I've nothing against Campbell. Scratch that: the man's morals are despicable and I can't stand him. But putting my own and I'm sure scores of Spurs fans' feelings to one side, at 35 he's surely not the answer to their many prayers. They're in need of a tough centre midfielder, a reliable striker, a honest set of players and some testicles so that they can win tough away games. But a knackered old has-been is surely not the way.
But I'm hardly complaining. Let him go back. And let them get their hopes up about coming 3rd this season. Their traditional late season slump is just one defeat away.
I'm aware how bitter this all sounds. What can I say? When you live in the hideous shadow of your equally hideous neighbours then it makes one a little vengeful. They may have it better than us at the moment and they may have enjoyed this superiority for the best part of the last 15/20 years. But the days of Gooner invincibility are long gone. If we learn to keep a manager for longer than three years, we might soon be able to effectively compete. Chins up and all that.
COYS.
9 January 2010
It's all gone quiet over here
Happy New Year and all that.
Apologies for the lack of communication lately but it's the same old, replicated excuses, I'm afraid: work, busy schedule, World War 3, etc. Suffice to say, the big freeze outside has temporarily frozen traffic going through this site.
But, like a phoenix from the flames, this blog will rise up to its pre-Christmas heights again soon enough. The only news I can report on is, in essence, no news at all. Our Sky-televised, crunch game at Liverpool has been postponed due to bad weather so no Tottenham for this weekend. No chance to continue good form and no chance to further dent Rafa Benitez's long term job security. News on a re-arrangement hasn't arrived as yet but it'll doubtless be when this terrible weather finally relents.
The postponement of the game is actually a bit of a favour for us. It gives the boy genius Aaron Lennon further time to recover from the injury that would have kept him out of this important clash had it gone ahead. Lennon will be a crucial figure for us in 2010 (provided Fergie keeps his hands to himself in the summer) and his presence in a high profile game such as this one will be invaluable. The thought of him going up against Emiliano Insua is too tantalising for mere words. Lennon will beast him. Simple as.
What else, what else... oh yes. We stuffed Peterborough in the cup last week. 4-0 and it should have been more but for a superb performance from Joe Lewis in the away goal. Rumours abound that we're sniffing around him as back up for Gomes, what with Cudicini's career in the balance. Logical. Niko Kranjcar continued his man possessed run of scoring goals and there was even a chance for estranged genius Robbie Keane to etch his name on the scoreboard, with a late penalty. Leeds await in the next round, the all-mighty conquerors of Man Utd. Should we fear them? Yawn. Of course not.
I promise I'll crack back onto some regular bloggage when I get the chance. Or when something genuinely interesting regarding Tottenham happens. It's been almost two weeks since our last league game and the transfer window's been as quiet as Roman Pavlyuchenko's inbox so far. Fingers crossed for a bit of entertainment soon, eh?
Apologies for the lack of communication lately but it's the same old, replicated excuses, I'm afraid: work, busy schedule, World War 3, etc. Suffice to say, the big freeze outside has temporarily frozen traffic going through this site.
But, like a phoenix from the flames, this blog will rise up to its pre-Christmas heights again soon enough. The only news I can report on is, in essence, no news at all. Our Sky-televised, crunch game at Liverpool has been postponed due to bad weather so no Tottenham for this weekend. No chance to continue good form and no chance to further dent Rafa Benitez's long term job security. News on a re-arrangement hasn't arrived as yet but it'll doubtless be when this terrible weather finally relents.
The postponement of the game is actually a bit of a favour for us. It gives the boy genius Aaron Lennon further time to recover from the injury that would have kept him out of this important clash had it gone ahead. Lennon will be a crucial figure for us in 2010 (provided Fergie keeps his hands to himself in the summer) and his presence in a high profile game such as this one will be invaluable. The thought of him going up against Emiliano Insua is too tantalising for mere words. Lennon will beast him. Simple as.
What else, what else... oh yes. We stuffed Peterborough in the cup last week. 4-0 and it should have been more but for a superb performance from Joe Lewis in the away goal. Rumours abound that we're sniffing around him as back up for Gomes, what with Cudicini's career in the balance. Logical. Niko Kranjcar continued his man possessed run of scoring goals and there was even a chance for estranged genius Robbie Keane to etch his name on the scoreboard, with a late penalty. Leeds await in the next round, the all-mighty conquerors of Man Utd. Should we fear them? Yawn. Of course not.
I promise I'll crack back onto some regular bloggage when I get the chance. Or when something genuinely interesting regarding Tottenham happens. It's been almost two weeks since our last league game and the transfer window's been as quiet as Roman Pavlyuchenko's inbox so far. Fingers crossed for a bit of entertainment soon, eh?
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