Tottenham are enduring their worst season in decades, currently sitting 16th in the Premier League and already out of both domestic competitions. With only the Europa League left as their shot at silverware, the path looks promising after a strong showing against Bodo/Glimt. A final in Bilbao is within reach.
Spurs had a game against West Ham who are, incidentally, the side just one place below them in the table and similarly troubled this season. With the title already sealed by Liverpool and the league campaign all but over, this fixture offered both clubs a chance to improve their standings and give rotational players valuable minutes.
Tottenham followed the same suit, they have been following this season long with a fantastic start at the London Stadium and got the reward early when Wilson Odobert finished clinically in the 15th minute to give the away side a well-deserved lead. However, Spurs being Spursy as ever lost the lead soon enough when West Ham found an equaliser when Jarrod Bowen reacted quickest from close-range in the 28th minute. Apart from the absolute sky-rocket of a freekick, Mathys Tel was definitely the star player in the first half.
Spurs had a couple of good chances, with Richarlison and Mathys Tel both coming close, but just lacked a cutting edge in the final third. The first half was quite evenly matched, with numerous fouls breaking up the play. Much of Tottenham’s forward play came through Dejan Kulusevski, whilst Pape Sarr was the only player offering any sort of bite in midfield. Add in injuries to Djed Spence and a few stoppages.
The second half followed right where the first half ended. Spurs pressed for a winner in a lively second half but couldn’t break the deadlock. Mathys Tel and Richarlison both tested the West Ham goalkeeper, while Pape Sarr saw a long-range effort sail wide. Yves Bissouma and Mikey Moore injected energy into midfield and attack, but West Ham’s defence held firm. While West Ham were very close to winning it with Bowen heading from a set piece, Vicario was as impressive as ever. Despite sustained pressure and multiple set-piece chances, Spurs lacked the final touch. It ended all square at the London Stadium.
A relatively quiet outing for the Italian, who was tested numerous times and had an error when Bowen struck the ball hard through the Italian’s legs. Made routine saves and handled Bowen’s close-range header calmly.
A composed performance on the ball, showing flashes of maturity. Didn’t influence the game heavily, but avoided costly mistakes. AWB had the youngster on skates as he composed the game
Won several key defensive duels and maintained composure under pressure. Gave away a couple of fouls but was generally solid at the back. A generally good performance on his end.
Booked early for a reckless challenge and looked a little off the pace. Gave away multiple fouls and struggled with Bowen’s movement.
Contributed with a cross that led to Richarlison’s early effort but picked up a handball and suffered a knock that interrupted his momentum.
Controlled possession well in spells and wasn’t afraid to try his luck from distance. One of the few attempting to dictate tempo.
Energetic and combative, winning several fouls and battling in both halves. Took a shot from distance and provided a drive in midfield.
Involved in plenty of duels, winning some and losing others. Provided the nice pass for a Richarlison chance and drew fouls in dangerous areas.
The standout attacker for Spurs. Took his goal well with a composed finish and constantly threatened with his movement in behind.
Worked tirelessly and had a couple of shots, including one that went just over. Won several fouls but lacked sharpness in front of goal, just cannot find the net at the moment.
Had a low shot saved and another wild free-kick effort. Booked late on for a clumsy challenge, reflecting a game of mixed involvement.
Replaced Richarlison late on and was caught offside once. Didn’t have much time to impact the game meaningfully. Sweet corner from the youngster
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