Can't Smile Without You

CSWY Has Moved!!

noreply@blogger.com (spud) — Sun, 04 Jul 2010 16:44:00 +0000

After much planning 'Can't Smile Without You' has now taken up residence in a snazzy new neighbourhood around the corner at Wordpress.

New surroundings can be found around here so drop by when you get the chance.

When you get there you will find some reviews of last season and also a round up of Spurs at the World Cup waiting there for your enjoyment.

Drop by whenever you can, I'll probably just be sitting on the floor bursting bubble wrap.

Peace

Play Them Off Johnny...

noreply@blogger.com (spud) — Fri, 07 May 2010 18:17:00 +0000

Our last game of this magnificent season comes against a doomed Burnley side wanting to send their fans off with a smile. With our Champions League fate sealed we should be going to Turf Moor to show them exactly how ruthless this league can be.

Whilst I sympathise with Burnley's beleagured fans, who have been terrific this season, I have none for them as a club. Plucky under Owen Coyle they looked pretty good value to stay up against the odds down to their impressive home form. Once he left for rivals Bolton the decison to hire Brian Laws as his replacement was their sign of throwing in the towel. I appreciate he was at the club as a player and is probably very passionate but the Burnely boards lack of ambition at finding a more experienced, accomplished candidate made their relegation inevitable.

I want us to be merciless, go for the jugular and end this season on a high. We go there, under no pressure, to the worst defence in the league. We beat them man for man in every area of the pitch, Defoe and co. should be licking their lips at the prospect. Let's fill our boots and rack up the goals for column. We beat them by five at WHL, hell PSB managed to put away four against them, so is Arsenal's goal difference totally out of our reach? Arsene always says when he's adrift of the title race, you're not out of it until it's mathmatically impossible so, however unlikely, third should be our aim going into this match.

It might be possible that I'm getting a little carried away, still trying to prise myself from the ceiling after our mid-week win. Believe me and this is all tongue firmly in cheek but Audere Est Facere my friends, Audere Est Facere.

So 0-11, Arsenal-Fulham draw and 3rd in the bag anyone??

What Could We Use To Collect Mr. Hansen's Tears?

noreply@blogger.com (spud) — Thu, 06 May 2010 21:03:00 +0000

Bottle

Something we've lacked for years. Something that looks fudging marvellous in lilywhite and something wonderful on show last night.

When Gary Linekar tentatively enquired about our Champions League prospects, (pretty much every week bless him) a few telling contributions from the former scoucers now were laid bare. 'Spurs will always let you down' crowed Hansen whilst Lawrenson simply and emphatically answered 'No'. Gary has been waiting as long as us to stick it up the bollocks to them both and I can’t wait for MOTD this weekend.

Whist being completely aware of the incredibly bitter undertones of the above statement you couldn’t really question their logic. For years Spurs have consistently underachieved, let themselves down, and we as fans know all too well having been badly burned numerous times before. Realistically not many would have been surprised if we had capitulated last night in typical Tottenham fashion. The tangible apprehension felt prior to kick off and subsequent elation at the result prove how monumental and a little unexpected our Champions League qualification has been. I still find myself pinching my arm fat, maybe a nipple twist for good measure, just to make sure it’s not all a dream.

Much of our remarkable improvement this season has been the belief and mental ruggedness Harry has got coursing through the veins of this squad. Throughout the campaign we have suffered disappointments but rather letting those manifest into slumps of poor form as we have done in the past we have reacted with gusto. To use serially relegated Iain Dowie’s wonderfully ironic buzzword, shown awesome ‘bouncebackability’. It’s that which left us victorious last night, it’s that which has got us fourth and it’s that which can be shoved down the throat of those two unbearable melters on the MOTD couch.

The game itself was one seen through hazy, drunken eyes. My own mental strength succumbed to the whims of getting pissed in order to be able to tolerate watching it. Every player deserves credit however a few stand out performances on the evening caught the eye, starting before a ball had even been kicked.

Harry Redknapp set the tone for the night with his team selection, he himself refusing to bottle it by recalling Sarge back into the fold. Ball’s out attack was his message opting with Lennon and Bale either wing and the Moddlestone combination given faith in the middle of the park. All in all quite the smashing looking midfield bubbling with creativity and intent. Kaboul quite rightly retained his place after his remarkable performance against Bolton and Pav quite rightly lost his place to Crouch after a series of abject performances. Fitness worries King and Gomes declared themselves ready for duty undoubtedly giving a massive lift to the whole team.

Gomes returned between the sticks for yet another clean sheet. Had only a couple of saves to make and he made them. One terrifying heart in mouth moment when the ball bounced off Bale was cleared up by the Octopus but it wasn’t his goalkeeping that was the highlight of his performance but his frenzied celebration at Crouchies goal. He celebrates every goal but the wide eyed roar from him was as passionate as the most fervent fan. I love our mental Brazilian and wouldn’t trade him for any other keeper in the world.

Carlos Tevez commented recently that Daws was the best defender he has played against and I can’t see his opinion changing anytime soon. Awesome Dawson was simply incredible again. I have forever banished from my memory the nervy displays he was capable of as he now looks to be as composed a defender in the league. Many congratulations for his Player of the Season award which has been richly deserved by such a top bloke.

What more can be said of Ledley King? He doesn’t deserve superlatives anymore because every single one will never come close to doing him justice. Had a perfectly good goal cruelly disallowed but again just looked comfortable all game. Any high ball was dealt with and although City’s crossing was poor Ledley was always there, in the way of everything. Another world class performance. Ordinarily I would go mental at the thought of Ledders going on international duty preferring him wrapped snugly in cotton wool over Summer but if there is any player deserving of a World Cup place then it’s him. Cappelo simply has to select him and Dawson for the squad, it would be a disgrace if he doesn’t pick both.

Kaboul…where the hell have those last two performances come from? Harry admitted that Youness isn’t a right back. Well on this form he certainly could be. I’d imagine having Kaboul running at you would be like a fridge coming toward you at thirty miles an hour. Simply terrifying. Widely recognised as being our weak link, Bellamy was expected to expose his defensive frailties. Not only did he comfortable contain Bellamy he also found time to support Azza in attack and his sterling work for the goal was testament to the effort shown by the big Frenchman. Am I the only one who see’s real promise with Kab at right back?

Our match winner, Peter Crouch put in the kind of performance he is so capable of. Although there was an element of long ball to our play Crouch showed good touches, awareness and clever distribution . Last night was a world away from the wasteful performances we have seen a bit too frequently from the lanky fella and he fully deserved the goal and acclaim. Toure and Kompany were unable to contain him, he could have scored three on the night, but it wasn’t just his attacking threat which impressed. He proved a useful foil to the hard working Defoe, defended set pieces manfully and maintained possession at crucial times. His goal alone was worth £9million spent on him and hopefully we can see him step up like this more often.

I could wax lyrical about every player on the pitch but I’d keep you here a while. Lovely to see Azza starting, Baler worked hard and we refused to be bullied in central midfield. BAE maturely handled the threat of both Johnson and Wright-Phillips. Bentley, Pav and Willy P came off the bench and played their part too. Ultimately as a team we wanted it more and we thoroughly deserved it. City in the end didn’t really provide much of a threat, especially in the second half and looked dejected and resigned to defeat after we scored. I’m sure it was massively disappointing for their fans but they should be safe in the knowledge that they will get there a lot quicker then we managed it. On the day and over the course of the season we were better then them.

Lovely to see every player celebrate with the fans at the final whistle. The support was once again terrific and something for the club to be truly proud of. Everyone at the club should be proud, this squad has earned the success and achievement this season and I can barely contain my excitement.

Spurs have the opportunity to dine at the top table in Europe next season. Don’t you just love it!

Wow...Just Wow

noreply@blogger.com (spud) — Thu, 06 May 2010 07:32:00 +0000

Did the sight of a sopping wet Harry Redknapp give anyone else the horn? I got a little excited by his shirt going a little see through and if I had Sky+ I would have rewound and searched desperately for a sight of nipple. The old codger was an Adonis to me last night, the man who made this possible. My wrinkly, saggy, beautiful hero!

On top of that, predictably sensing a ‘star jump’ opportunity, we were treated to David Bentley dancing in his pants. Of course he had to be bottomless, you could sense that he‘d prepared it to be just so. ‘What’s that JJ…you’re going to soak the gaffer? Hold on, let me get out of these shorts and I’ll be with you.’ Such malarkey epitomises the level of good cheer which is currently drowning N17 and I love it. The players and fans united in unbridled joy. What a night.

Unfortunately after every big night there is the aftermath. Woke up this morning, still wearing my King shirt from last night, with a cataclysmic hangover. But it’s alright, we’re in the Champions League. Splitting headache? Of course. Wallet emptied? Check. Lost voice? You bet your arse. But it’s all completely worth it because we’re in the Champions League.

Say it again. We’re in the ruddy Champions League. Crikey!

Still hasn’t sunk in but I‘m looking forward to when it does. By jove we deserved it on the night and we’ve deserved it for our efforts throughout the season.

I’m in far too much pain to do a full match write up at the moment, expect one later, but for now I’ll just be enjoying this warm, wonderful, fuzzy feeling. I’m going to embrace my stupid, inane, smug grin saved for some City supporting colleagues at work. I will continue to sing the Champions League warble that is stuck in my head and after giving it some level of thought, I’m going to relish getting carried away with it all for the next few days. My brain keeps trying to say ‘we’ve still got to qualify for it yet’ but I’m going to banish those worries and just celebrate the achievement.

I fucking love this club and I’m starting to think it loves me too.

*Apologies for a lack of action round these here parts recently. Unfortunately other commitments have taken precedence, ruddy occupation getting in the way again and such!

United Away

noreply@blogger.com (spud) — Fri, 23 Apr 2010 09:47:00 +0000

Our visits to Old Trafford are usually met with a gut feeling of trepidation and the faint aroma of excrement. I don't need to explain how long it's been since we've won there as it gets mentioned often enough but lets just say it's been a long while since we emerged victorious.

However this weekend sees us travelling to Manchester in great form having scratched our eleven year Arse itch and followed that up with a battering of Chelsea in our back yard. We are the form team in the league and that shows with the confidence positively oozing out of the players and evident in our play. More reasons to be cheerful is the return of Sarge and Charlie from suspension and injury whilst Azza blud may hopefully get amongst the subs.

United on the other hand haven't been in the best of form as they continue to stutter with their reliance on a half-injured Rooney. Regardless the events of last week still sees them challenging for the title race. Although they make look weaker than the usual force, beating United at Old Trafford is still a task of Herculean proportions. The crowd at White Hart Lane have been nothing short of extraordinary in our last two games and without a doubt every fan in the stadium contributed to the last two results however can this team perform to the same standard away from home without such immense support.

One of the most pressing questions is do you break up a winning team? With the return of Wilson from suspension to fit him into the team would mean to break up the partnership of Hudd and Luka. Palacios should be considered too valuable a commodity to consider leaving on the bench so he has to start which will switch Luka to the left. Although Luka has performed admirably in the middle, away from home the bite and aggression of a fit, rested, yellow free Sarge will avoid Fletcher and co. taking over the midfield battle. Harry just needs to put on his best Mr Burns accent and, 'release the hound'.

By shifting Moddle to the left would see Baler moving to left back which will make it harder for G Nev and Valencia to double mark him. Rather predictably the 'Bale to United' rumours begin in earnest coincidentally just before we play them. I seem to vaguely remember a similar rumour about Moddle this time last year too. It amazes me that the media have managed to conjure this up. United has an ageing, dynamic, Welsh left winger. We have a young, dynamic, Welsh left sided player... How do they come up with this stuff, you must need maaad skills to be a journalist. Hopefully we will get to see Bale, Bale, Bale tear Neville a new arsehole and make the £20million quoted sound ridiculous.

Every Spurs fan (myself very much included) must have been unbearable to be around for any of our rivals and for this run of form to continue would most likely send us all into a state of unbearable smugness. The difference between this and previous years is the belief that we can go and get a result. Three points would send us into raptures but a point would be just as respectable. Realistically we have to look to get something out of this game. If we do then we are well on our way to earning ourselves that fourth spot.

Score draw from me and the mongs from down the road to beat City.

COYS!

London Derbies...Pah

noreply@blogger.com (spud) — Mon, 19 Apr 2010 07:50:00 +0000

Crikey

I thought our season was supposed to be over after meekly bowing out of the FA Cup semi final. Many laughed at us crashing out to penniless Pompey, City were banging them in with reckless abandon and our CL hopes had all but been written off.

Well how you like us now, bitch?

My arms have gone from pasty white to a patchy red following the repeated arm pinching that has occurred this week. Although we were always going to be capable of getting points against our two dearest London rivals, performances against Sunderland and Portsmouth never really had me truly believing we could.

First we faced an Arsenal team looking to remain in the title race. In my preview I asked that every player put their abject semi final behind them and put in the kind of performance they were capable of and boy did they deliver.

Arsene Wenger's team were outdone by an epic team performance where his side had no answer to the commitment and desire on show by Tottenham. An evening in which every player turned up and put 110%, nay 210% into it. We wanted it badly as an organised lilywhite unit, unbreakable in both physical and spiritual presence.

And when the legs were tiring from such overexertion one Brazilian stood firm to ensure the job was done. Three world class game winning saves saw us over the finish line. His response to proceedings, ‘I’m just doing my job’. Heroic. Gomes, here is my missus, do what you will.

The following game saw Chelsea come to take on the gauntlet of White Hart Lane. A tangible sense of confidence and belief had swept over N17 and it had the Blues spooked. Spurs picked up where they left and went for the jugular from the off. Disciplined in defence and incisive in attack it was a role reversal of what you would expect from the teams on show.

Numerous breakaways saw plenty of reckless challenges from Chelsea. They got away with a Terry foul on Defoe and a Bale run saw Mikel get away without a penalty but the resulting corner led to them finally being punished. The initial cross was poor however upon the return Bentley nicked in a wicked looking ball. An awkward bounce saw it hit Terry’s arm and a penalty was duly given. Defoe stepped up and faced his penalty demons of this season and in one ferocious strike sent Cech the wrong way and sent us on our way.

In central midfield, Huddles and Moddles mixed impressive work rate with measured tenacity and strangled Chelsea’s creative juices. Although outnumbered they got stuck in with the dirty work and matched Lampard, Deco, Mikel and later, Ballack. Also when they did find themselves with a little time on the ball they released it intelligently and effectively to set off Tottenham on another roam forward.

The usual destination of any pass was aimed towards our left wing to where the boy Bale was irrepressible. He had the measure of Ferreira in the first half where he literally ‘Boulahrouzed’ him. Whether the ball was in the air or on the turf he beat the right back. Our second came from where he first beat Ferreira for pace, then beat him with a bit of skill before putting a perfect right footed shot into the near post. Two goals in two games for the monkey faced beauty is the sort of return his form has merited. Platitudes are fast running out for the Welshman and I swooned at his heart celebration. Bless his little cottons.

Again the commitment shown by all in lilywhite was exemplary. Dawson put in another supreme display of no nonsense defending in front of Cappelo. Questions need to be asked if the Italian fails to take him to South Africa. Every high ball was headed, every loose pass gobbled up and every block met effortlessly. Didier Drogba was so snug in Daws pocket for the whole game he ended up having a tantrum like a toddler in a pushchair. Is there a more beautiful sight than when Chelsea self destruct?

On the other side, Dawson’s counterpart was also having a bit of a paddy. After escaping a booking in the first half John Terry received two in double quick time in the second. The first was a hack from behind on Pav the other when Bale was again causing mischief. His blind defiance and choice words to Bale after receiving the red epitomises the scumbag for who he truly is. A swell of pride rushed over me when Bale smiled in the face of his childish taunts. Again I ask, is there a more beautiful sight than when Chelsea self destruct?

Up front was the sort of performance you want to see from Pav. The Russians tireless, thankless tracking back was duly recognised and he should be applauded for the effort he put in. However his suspect finishing was the only dark cloud of his game. He should have had a hat trick and made the scoreline more attractive and by his face you tell that he knew that too. Hopefully he’s just storing those goals for the rest of the season.

Again another performance where discipline and organisation were the foundations for an exceptional game. This week has seen us drag ourselves back in contention for fourth spot and credit must go to Harry for getting this reaction from his squad. I could wax lyrical about every player and it’s the motivational and man management skills of the manager which have achieved this.

United and ourselves have done each other huge favours this weekend and next weekend see’s us taking on the red half of Manchester. We could not be in better form to face them at the moment and with us having a full weeks rest and Azza’s potential return who could write us off. Would it be wishful thinking?

Happy St. Hotspurs Day

noreply@blogger.com (spud) — Thu, 15 Apr 2010 07:35:00 +0000

Too hungover even to comprehend writing about yesterdays game yet.

In the meantime, enjoy.

NLD - No Let Down

noreply@blogger.com (spud) — Wed, 14 Apr 2010 10:04:00 +0000

Our last two fixtures have been duds. Lacklustre performances in which we got exactly what we deserved. Fuck all. Dry ’em, move on and put it down to a small blip in what has been an otherwise very enjoyable season.

However any repeat of those types of performances against the old enemy will be completely unacceptable.

With so much riding on this game you would imagine that it wouldn’t be possible for any player not to be fired up for it big time. With Arsenal still in the race for the title and us needing to hold onto City’s money lined coat-tails only serves to add extra weight to the game. That’s even before uttering the name of Judas in disgust. So in short, this is it. No excuses, we have to turn up.

We have it all to do though. Arsenal will want a quick response to the footballing lesson they received at the hands of Barca. They have had a whole week to rest, recover and prepare. They will also be buoyed by United’s weekend result and the news of Van Persie’s possible return. We, on the other hand, have played a debilitating, soul destroying two hours of football at the weekend with a half fit team, have lost our midfield enforcer to suspension and lost ground, and goal difference, to City in the league. Footballing God’s most certainly be damned.

Both teams are suffering with injuries. I’m finding it’s nigh on impossible to judge what potential line ups and tactics Harry’s got in mind. I could go on all day and speculate as to what the master plan could be however I’ll leave that in the hands of the manager. It will only end up depressing me with the lack of options we currently have at our disposal. Kaboul in centre midfield anyone? *shudder*

Still, nothing fires up the spirits like an evening fixture against our friends from Woolwich.

To give credit where it’s due, Arsenal have had a very good season. After being written off numerous times they have managed to continue a challenge for the title. It goes without saying I despise the club however my hatred for their players has mellowed a little. Before the names of Keown, Viera, Pires, Lehmann, Ljungburg, Henry, Wiltord etc would have me foaming at the mouth but the likes of Nasri, Sagna, Diaby or Vermaelen don’t. Even Bendtner is nothing if not entertainingly delusional.

Regardless one name on the team sheet will always make one feel giddy with anger is the Judas one. Enough is going to be made about his return and I look forward to the faithful making his sorry life miserable for ninety minutes. I try to be as fair and relatively balanced when it comes to football however I cannot see beyond Solzeer for the Judas scumbag he is.

Whoever Harry picks they need to be on it. To get anything from this we need every man in lilywhite to deliver what they failed to in our last two games. They need to pay the fans back and also do themselves justice. I have faith in the team however predictions are out for this one. Derbies are reserved for the special ‘anything could happen’ category. It’s mid-week, under the lights, vociferous atmosphere in season defining games for both clubs. It should be special.

Bring on the Scum.

Bloody Predictable

noreply@blogger.com (spud) — Mon, 12 Apr 2010 20:52:00 +0000

Don't want to spend too much time talking about the semi-final. It hurt enough and having had to deal with a couple of Pompey mates at work didn't make my Monday any more enjoyable.

Honestly, I can't begrudge them their celebrations. Their commitment and loyalty to their club has been exemplary and they, along with the rest of the Pompey faithful, deserve what could be their last day out in the sun for some time. Congrats ladies and gentleman, sincerely. Hope you go on to smash the pikeys in the Final.

On the day we weren’t good enough. Simple as.

Avram Grant sussed out Redknapp's game plan and tactically bitch slapped him. The pitch by no means helped our passing game and we looked laboured in possession. Portsmouth were more than happy to allow us on to them and hit us on the break routinely carving out openings. If not for Piquionne’s poor finishing in front of goal and some imposing goalkeeping from Gomes we could have been out of it before extra time.

They frustrated us. Epic defending and resolute organisation had us all out of ideas other than ‘give it to Bale’. Long before the end of ninety minutes you could see the shoulders sagging, finger wagging and a general malaise creeping in. For all the advances we have made this season in resilience we still looked a team that lacked the mental strength to deal with the weight of being such heavy favourites. We were there for the taking long before the most depressing half hour of football I have ever witnessed.

Martin O'Neill has made a big song and dance over the injustices he has been dealt on his two trips to Wembley this season however our extra-time should put his issues into perspective.

For Pompey’s opener, much is being made of Wiley's decision to give a free kick in the first place. This much is true however that decision is completely irrelevant when you consider that Dawson would be making a routine clearance before the 'hallowed turf' of Wembley struck. Daws loses his footing, Piquionne nicks in, 1-0. Nothing anyone can do about that, no ones fault, pure misfortune.

What followed was just laughable. Bale makes a wonderfully penetrative run down the left and puts in a cracking ball. James makes a hash of a cross, clatters into Niko. Crouch puts in the loose ball. Nowt wrong with it yet Mr Wiley see's a foul that isn't there and James' face tells the story.

It wasn’t to be our day, fair enough leave it at that. Yet Wiley left with one parting shot. A Pompey break left Wilson one on one with Dindane. Sarge could have done better with it and not allowed his man to get in the box but he made up for it with a good, if not a little clumsy, challenge. He could be seen hooking his foot around the attacker and clearly getting the ball. Wiley, standing directly behind the attacker where he can’t possibly get a good view of the tackle, again see’s a foul that there isn’t. Surely his linesman would have had a clearer view but he failed to bother consulting him having already made up his mind. Couldn’t care less about the penalty however the yellow card that followed has now left us without Sarge for our two huge London derbies. Bother.

So out of the cup. Should feel a little hard done by but in reality didn’t really deserve it. Outfought on the pitch and outthought in the dugouts. It hurts but I can bet it doesn’t hurt half as much as being a Pompey fan this year. The club has deserved all it's got for it's piss poor mananagement but the fans are just innocent victims of it. I wish them all the best in the final and in the future.

Look Who's Running

noreply@blogger.com (spud) — Wed, 07 Apr 2010 16:38:00 +0000

Tottenham held an open training session at WHL which is not likely to be a hugely entertaining exhibition but I suppose it would be a good day out for some. I don't really go for these kind of gimmicks and see them as nothing but an easy money maker for the men up top whilst doing the players no favours whatsoever. Enough of their careers is spilled out in the public eye and they have expectations laid upon them every game they play, to add an audience for training seems excessive and possibly disruptive. Let the buggers have some time away from us for crying out loud.

Saying that I would have loved to have been at WHL to glimpse a sight for the sorest of Spurs (and Cappelo‘s) eyes. The sight of young Azza blud running again and taking part in training. Thus, I was left swooning over the little tyke at my desk at work. Sigh.

It goes without saying that we have missed Lennon this season. Prior to his injury the shaven eyebrowed one was in inspired form. Tearing defences to pieces, laying them on in the bucketload for Defoe and also pinging in a few late goals for himself.

Between the combined efforts of Kranjcar and Bentley they have provided able deputies in his stead, but the fact that neither of them have managed to hold on to his right wing place during his absence shows how inconsistent they can both be. That may seem an unfair criticism to lay at them both, especially Krankie who is our highest goalscoring midfielder since Poyet, but both have been on the receiving end of half time substitutions for indifferent performances and been guilty of insipid displays.

Mainly the big loss has been the vital commodity that Azza brings which is his pace and ability to beat defenders. Fortunately Bale has stepped up to offer some speed down the left however our right side looks horribly one paced, especially with Charlie at right back. Lennon and Corluka seem to have struck up a brilliant understanding on the right and hopefully the latter will not be out for much longer too as I’m aching to see them back together again.

Also the potentially mouth watering/pant wetting prospect of Bale and Lennon either wing is something to genuinely get excited about. A threat of their proportions from both flanks is equally orgasmic to us, as it is terrifying for any opponent. Tied into the return of JD to get on the end of their deliveries and Thudd whose going to have a field day with both of them to aim for, this could be the shot in the arm our fourth place challenge requires.

I wouldn’t imagine that Lennon would be risked for this weekends Semi-Final against Pompey but if we can get him fit enough to play a part in our next four league games then our chances of making CL will improve.

Without getting carried too away, this news is probably the best thing that could have happened. Now we just need the rest of our squad fit too...hmm

It's Grim Up North

noreply@blogger.com (spud) — Mon, 05 Apr 2010 20:22:00 +0000

Saturday afternoon at the Stadium of Light was not a pleasant place to be. Spurs often leave any remnants of confidence behind when travelling up north and this weekends game proved to be no different. Sporting a rather fetching photo negative of our home strip our boys prepared for battle in a wet and windy affair which was bound to test their resolve…and it took Sunderland and Barren Dent all of thirty-six seconds to see us crumble.

From the kick off our defence showed all the cohesion of velcro in conceding a typical Bent finish. With a back four of Walker, Kab, Bass, BAE, playing together for the first time and displaying a worrying lack of leadership without Daws, it was the worst possible start we could make. A combination of Sunderland flying from the off and jittery defending saw a corner conceded within ten seconds. Kyle Walker, making his second Premier League start, lost his man in the resulting set piece leaving Campbell with a free header in the box. Gomes done well to parry the shot away but you would expect better from him than to push it directly onto Bent’s toe.

Little Darren ran jubilantly across the Spurs fans celebrating with about as much class as can be expected from him. Giving the faithful a mouthy sign and feeling fully vindicated at getting his own back for anyone, anywhere, to ever have criticised him. It speaks volumes of his neediness and mental strength that he has so much ill feeling to a club he made a fortune out of whilst giving very little return in form and performances. One (admittedly ill advised) tongue in cheek comment from his manager should not affect a top level professional player in this way. I have no ill feeling towards Bent as a player and believe he offered as much as his limited ability could but as a person he lacks both the intellect and decency to be remembered for anything other than his inadequacies.

From then on in Sunderland bossed us, embarrassingly so. Although excuses can be made for all of our injury woes we were simply outplayed in all area’s of the field and it didn’t take long for Sunderland to be further rewarded. A Gomes save, again parried into a dangerous area bounced off the arm of Walker and the penalty was duly given. No arguments about the decision, the ball quite clearly hit his outstretched upper limb whether intentional or not. Up stepped Bent to score his second of the game, repeat celebration, needs to get over himself.

A strange pattern soon started to emerge as the game progressed. Sunderland were seemingly intent on attempting to win as many penalties as they could. Following an early farcical dive by Henderson in the opening exchanges another former Spur, Frazier Campbell, was practically horizontal before contact was made with Modric’s leg. In a scenario similar to Bent’s dive at WHL the official once again gave a penalty. Bent stepped up again, first half hat-trick tangible, picturing the headlines and Harry’s face, only for Gomes to ruin the moment and swipe his effort wide of the post.

First half finished with no-one leaving the field having done themselves justice. We had moments of laboured possession but showed little intent throughout. Without Dawson our defence is powderpuff, Kab and Bassong lack authority, BAE must have still been deciding what music he wants to listen to, Modric is not a central midfielder away from home, Bentley frustrated, Pav and Eidur looked tired and the whole thing was a sad, sorry mess. Redknapp tried a repeat of Fulham by making two half time changes. Off went Bentley for Krancjar and Ekotto for Defoe with Bale and Modric moving to their traditional positions and Eidur slotting in the middle.

Second half though, proved no better. Sunderland beat us to everything, passed more fluidly, won the midfield battle with Cattermole and Meyler, and in Malbranque and Henderson had the beating of us in the wide areas. Our attack provided no real danger and Gordon was untroubled for very little of the game. However our major concern lay in our defence.

Again we got caught out down the right and Meyler, needing very little encouragement, fell over in the area, penalty number three given. Bent stepping up again, Gomes saving again and the picture of confusion etched on his face proved a wonderfully cathartic moment. Our opposition were awarded more penalties in ninety minutes than we have been awarded in the league all season. A conspiracy…or maybe do we need to be a little more ‘continental’ when in the box? Doesn’t really make a difference, we can’t score the ruddy things anyway.

Crouch came on, scored a goal which should have been disallowed for an illegal jump, and a feeling of hope flickered. Playing badly and getting points is the stuff of champions. We had indeed played very badly and ridden our luck but a point could be up for grabs. A little injection of promise came and eventually fizzled out but some further highlights did occur before the final whistle.

Kenwyne Jones came off the bench to supply possibly the finest airshot seen for some times, the crap Ferdinand brother’s gay jig for his disallowed goal was a moment to smile about and Zenden’s sumptuous volley provided the only moments of genuine interest left in the game.

That sinking feeling seems to be reverberating around N17 with this performance and woefully threadbare squad going into the April gauntlet. Many have rubbished any ideas of CL football but Sunderland showed us that you can play awful away from home one week before mustering up a brilliant performance at home the next.

We still control our league position with a game against City still to play however we must drastically improve whilst also bring bodies back into the squad. This team had won five games on the bounce prior to this. The challenge is very much alive, don’t lose faith, it‘s still within our grasp, believe...and all that jazz.

Second String Mk.3 - Away

noreply@blogger.com (spud) — Fri, 02 Apr 2010 10:10:00 +0000

Former Spurs players move in packs and end up reuniting at different clubs. We have recently played, and beat, two of our former reserve teams in Fulham and Pompey (albeit we bought half of them back from the south). Next up is the northern branch of Spurs' hand me downs who don the red and white stripes of Wearside. Ex-Spurs players currently in the Sunderland squad include Fulop, (Soon to be ex) Hutton, Steed, Reid, Campbell and Bent.

Rumours are also circulating that Sunderland are looking to increase their Spurs contingent and recent reports have stated that Bruce is after the likes of Bentley and O'Hara in one of those 'Multi-pack' deals they are so fond of. Levy must love it when Niall Quinn calls him up as invariably he knows the Irishman is more than willing to part with his cash for our cast offs. God can only hope that they don't wise up to the fact that we're selling them players we don't need anymore because they are not good enough as opposed to being drawn to the northern lights and loose birds. Can't see Bentley and O'Hara leaving but a double swoop for Keane and Jenas in the summer may not be too wide off the mark.

Anyhoo, moving onto more pressing matters than Sunderland’s interesting recruitment policy there's a game coming up. A massively important game.

The Stadium of Light is never a nice place to go to and often our southern softies have gone all a little limp when coming up against them in previous seasons. I can't remember the last time we went to Sunderland and got a result, however we need to push that mentality to one side. Past form needs to be forgotten.

This game must be plonked into the 'must win' category. If we are going to be staking a serious claim for Champions League then we need three points. City have just as tough a run in as us and we play them to decide our fate however it's Liverpoo’ giving me this chilling feeling of a sweaty Benetiz's hot breath and goatee bristle on the back of my neck. We need to re-affirm our distance from the scouser’s and establish the seven point gap we previously held over them. That alongside our goal advantage should keep the scouse bastards at arms length during our difficult April.

Sunderland do worry me though. Not a panicked worry, more a niggle that with so many former players they're bound to have 'one of those games'. Also Craig Gordon has been in good form and we're overdue a world class performance from a distinctly average goalkeeper.

My unnerving paranoia aside, we shouldn't feel too apprehensive over the quality of our opponents. They looked a team whose season was up at Anfield and hopefully they will provide the same 'roll over and tickle our bellies' performance for us. Obviously home advantage should see more urgency from the Black Cats however if we impose ourselves early and get an early goal we should be safe.

Bent will be the main threat, purely based on that he badly, badly, BADLY wants to score against Harry. If he somehow manages to shin one in his celebrations and subsequent Twitter posts of absolution will be unbearable. I can picture him running up to Harry full pelt and booting a pre-prepared life size cardboard cut out of Sandra Harry's face. It speaks volumes of Bents needs recognition that he’s better than a middle aged woman so hopefully the desperation will see him fluff his lines again. Wouldn't mind seeing another penalty save from Gomes...mmm.

Awesome Dawson has been passed fit and JD has been pencilled in to make his return. It's been a quiet week and no more of our players managed to break down over the course of the week. This may be because we’ve got a handle on the injury crisis and we should see more players returning. More likely it's because last weekends game against Pompey proved to be little more strenuous than a leisurely stroll. Hopefully we can get more players back and available for the challenges that await in April.

Either blind faith or genuine belief see's me predicting a sixth straight win for Spurs in what I'd imagine will be a tight game. Sunderlands home form is good but we have the quality to beat them. Lose this and we put pressure on ourselves, win and the pressure cranks up for Pool and City. We can’t afford to show any weakness. We need to show we have the quality to do this.

Christ I’m getting jittery

Winning Has Never Felt So Boring

noreply@blogger.com (spud) — Sun, 28 Mar 2010 20:50:00 +0000

The clocks went forward an hour this weekend but that was not the only hour that I lost this weekend. After thrity minutes passed at White Hart Lane, Tottenham v Portsmouth ended as a contest. Three points were required and they were achieved with relative ease. Clean sheets are nothing to be sniffed at either but our game against Pompey had to be the most underwhelming 2-0 victory ever recorded. This is not to say our win against rock bottom Portsmouth was unimpressive.

The manner of our win is a good indicator of a new, more professional approach our team has taken on this season. The second half consisted of Portsmouth giving up and us being satisfied enough with our position. Although not conducive to entertainment it got results. I was urging the team to be more positive and to destroy our opponents but within hindsight less is more was probably the appropriate way to play out the game as opposed to kicking a team when they are down.

Taking the game to Pompey with reckless abandon in the second half may have seen us score a couple more however the casual nature of our victory will better serve the players stamina with a hectic schedule in the offing. Reserving energy seemed to be the order of the second half from Redknapp and we snuffed the threat from Portsmouth without really breaking into a sweat. The game itself had very little to offer however there was some good to observe.

Kyle Walker made his first appearance in a lilywhite shirt stepping in for the injured Corluka and couldn’t have asked for a better game to debut. I was very impressed with the youngster especially his hand in the second goal. A burst of pace and displaying sound awareness to pull the back for Modric offers something Charlie is incapable of. I’m not sure if Corluka knows what the byline looks like but the young whippersnapper gives us a different option. Walker also showed desire to get forward at every opportunity but was often missed by Bentley who was inevitably to busy doing stepovers to release the young full back. Defensively he didn’t have a lot to do but handled the threat of Piquionne and Kanu maturely when called upon.

Crouch finally broke his goal duck with a well placed header from a delightful Bale cross. His run without a goal remarkably spans back to January for our much maligned plank. He was again full of effort and endeavour holding the ball up well but also showed good touches throughout the game. A lovely piece of skill at the corner flag had one chuckling in particular. The Crouch-Gud partnership has shown promise in the last couple of games which has cushioned the blow of having JD out.

You would expect to be coming up against a more competitive Portsmouth in our upcoming FA Cup clash at Wembley. On the day they offered very little threat and have the look of a doomed team. Such is their luck their team are currently dropping like flies too. Three players leaving the field injured has further weakened them and it’s tough not to feel pity for them. As Crouch said though there is no time for sentimentality in football and I'm currently looking forward to pasting Portsmouth at Wembley come 11th April.

The Rehearsal

noreply@blogger.com (spud) — Fri, 26 Mar 2010 07:22:00 +0000

Still basking in the warm afterglow of our brilliant quarter final against Fulham we now have a rehearsal of our semi-final tie with a home game against a doomed Pompey. I have nothing but sympathy for Pompey’s fans (with the exception of the berk with the bell) and their current demise highlights the massive incompetence of the ruling bodies of our fine game.

Hopefully this game will give the media a chance to get the ‘Harry vs Portsmouth’ bullshit out of their systems so the semi-final can be looked forward to as a spectacle in itself as opposed to the tempestuous relationship between man and club. It’s incredibly patronising that the media will think that Portsmouth will be viewing their trip to Wembley as a chance to get back at Redknapp rather then it being the highlight of their worst of seasons.

Our league form should be described as spiffing considering our injury situation rumbles on. Four straight wins has been cracking, every team around us dropping points makes it even sweeter. Much was made out of ‘games in hand’ by City and Villa fans however they are only any use if you actually win the points. Villa’s two draws and City’s loss to Everton means we are all on equal games and we still rule the roost. We need to look to stretch the advantage and make it five in a row against the bottom club.

Complacency will always be my biggest concern with Spurs. Somehow it always seems to get the better of us when the going creaks into getting good. The corresponding fixture at Fratton Park saw us scrape a win with ten men in a gritty game and the help of Dindane’s hat-trick of comedy efforts. Shame they can’t afford to play him anymore, his finishing skills could have come in handy.

Pompey seemingly down and out won’t roll over and pander to our cause. Avram Grant will have his men fired up for this game and we need to expect our rivals to be turning it up to eleven. Desire and heart will get you so far but there is a stark difference in quality. Weakened further by the elbows of the Chav’s and O’Hara being ineligible to play means the threadbare Pompey squad has about as much clout as candy-floss. We on the other hand, for all our injuries, seem to only have one position of stark concern.

We began the season with an abundance of right-backs and now we have no recognised players to slot in there. Our two resident full-backs have joined the injury army, Corluka suffering with an ankle sprain and Walker a broken arm. Our other two right backs got sent ‘oop north. Hindsight is a wonderful thing but we do have some adequate, unconventional options ready to step in. Kaboul can step in to face his former club and BAE done a job there against Bolton so it’s not all doom and gloom.

We need to approach this game with the same rigour and intent as we will expect at Wembley. We need to be picking up maximum points against the teams below us, there are no excuses for not getting all three points. Harry and his team have me believing again. Usually this is an ominous sign of impending doom but I’m feeling myself getting carried away regardless. Here’s hoping the players share the belief the fans are feeling right now.

We still hold on to fourth so lets allow the teams to keep chasing us as they have proved a lack of bottle recently. We are the form team out of the contenders at the moment so I think the only prediction to make is a comfortable home win. 3-0 for me, Crouch to break his goal duck with a hat trick.

Nice

You Wont Like Him When He's Twitchy

noreply@blogger.com (spud) — Wed, 24 Mar 2010 23:22:00 +0000

Prior to our quarter final replay with Fulham, a recent interview with Luka Modric revealed that Redknapp can be quite scary when going into the dressing room at half time losing. Ironically we got to see what effects Harry’s anger has on our men.

A game against Fulham is never easy and in a tepid and lacklustre first half we saw our heroes going a goal down to a brilliantly taken goal by our old friend Bobby Zamora. Yes that man who passed the ball into the back of the net so blasé was our old headless chicken that we flogged to West Ham.

As a team we looked slow, stoic and although we were creating half chances Fulham contained us effectively. Redknapp, so good and talking the talk now had to walk the walk. He bit the bullet and bravely made some rather radical changes. Making a double sub after forty-five minutes is a risk regardless that the team looked more balanced on paper than the initial line up. The ineffective Kranjcar replaced with Hudd and the headless Benny swapped for Bentley.

Redknapp's gallantry was immediately rewarded. Bale, given the license to charge from deep by switching to left back, quickly won a free kick off former defender Stephen Kelly. Bentley stepped up for his first kick of the game. The first half was littered with poor set piece delivery’s failing to beat the first man. Old David decided to fudge all that and proceeded to ping a delightful ball which nestled perfectly in the far post without anyone getting a touch to it. Completely intentional free kick goals are Bentley’s specialty against Fulham where he scored a perfectly deflected one against our opponents earlier in the season.

Drawn level Spurs proceeded to ravage our opponents and dominate them in every department. With energy levels this high after half time I wonder if DavSpurs is worrying about our players 'taking on board energy' during the break. Driving with purpose we looked more balanced, settled and infinitely more dangerous. Even with Charlie going off with a knock Harry simply replaced our right back with a striker and Sgt. Wilson slipped effortlessly into the vacant position.

Modric looked far more dangerous cutting into space from the left. We retained the ball much better with Hudd conducting the play, this game proving how important he is to our play. Gudjohnson showed eagerness and versatility when switched to the middle and Bentley looked a man possessed. Whatever Harry said at half time certainly got our midfield going.

DB05 has never been a particular favourite of mine and often get irritated by his attempts to be a proper flash git, however when the little flicks and dummys he so often attempt actually work it's difficult not to smile for the lad. Konchesky got done a kipper by Bentley numerous times throughout the half and David managed to squeeze a high far post cross aimed for Pav. What followed was something I wouldn't have predicted.

I would be remiss of me to excluded that I mentioned on a previous post that Pav doesn't have a left foot. Well Pav bitch slapped me with a Van Basten-esque volley with his left beating Schwarzer at his near post. Sure the connection wasn't as sweet as the Dutchman’s but Super Pav showed exquisite technique to put us in front. His expression showed even he was surprised by his effort with exuberant celebration.

All we needed was a killer third. After some prodding and poking at the carcass that Fulham had been reduced to we got it. Modric cutting in from the left slipped in a great through ball for our Iceman Gudjohnson to run onto. The ball took a deflection but Eidur diligently carried on his chase and nipped in to beat not only Schwarzer to the first ball but also got the second touch to beat the back tracking defender. His perseverance throughout the game is testament to the effort put in to get himself to match fitness. He ended up making the ninety minutes look a piece of cake.

Fulham woke up for the last twenty minutes and put us under some pressure but in truth they never looked like getting back into it. Our defence stood firm impressively to prevent any jitters and we had the tie won.

Harry has had and probably still has some doubters. The usual grumbles surround him not being proactive enough with his substitutions and inexplicably being called tactically inept. He’s answered them emphatically by showing he‘s got the stones to change something that’s not working and getting a response out of his team. During Harry’s short time with the club he has made nothing but progress and Wembley beckons for Tottenham. We may have taken the scenic route with three replays but we have an extraordinarily tasty tie against Pompey to come. I can't stop singing Ossie's Dream and my knee's certainly will be trembly.

Eidur - The New Pav

noreply@blogger.com (spud) — Sun, 21 Mar 2010 22:55:00 +0000

Tottenham contrived to do everything in their power to drop points against Stoke. It looked to be a typical Tottenham performance of one minute looking comfortable before throwing it away a second later. We didn't hit the self-destruct button as we normally would, but the powers that be were certainly tracing a finger around it.

I suppose you would say this is the difference under Harry that we have developed a bit more of a hardened mentality. So often have we seen Spurs wilt under the pressure before giving up in a wonderfully anti-climatic stupor.

The squad, currently decimated with injuries, have now won four on the bounce and are putting the pressure on the chasing pack. With Villa and Liverpool dropping more points this weekend we are strengthening our claim for fourth. We need to continue opening the gap before April where we will expect points to be dropped against the top three.

We ran out at the Britannia with the only unexpected change of Kaboul replacing Wilson. Upon seeing the team sheet I let out a panicked whimper, however when I gathered myself I thought Harry was spot on. Kaboul provided good support with his aerial strength and even managed to put in a couple of decent crosses. He even gave a rather wonderful Hudd impression of blasting a couple thirty yarders out of the stadium, bless him as he wheeled away proud that he could kick a ball so hard.

From the off Stoke put to immediate effect the 'hack anyone whose fast and with a little bit of skill' tactic. The rough treatment Lennon got at WHL was fresh in the memory of Joe Jordan and after Bale was on the end of a heinous challenge by Fuller, Harry's second hand man rather eloquently informed the ref that he would be well served to give our players a little protection. Mike Dean must have paid attention as he seemed to get on top of Stokes rough tactics after that incident.

Save for a few hacks, erratic keeping from Gomes and Pav going off injured, the first half held nothing of note. The second, however, didn't take long to get started. From our kick off it took under forty seconds for us to be ahead. Nice interplay between Gudjohnson and Crouch saw the Iceman charge into the box, literally move mountains in barging the beast that is Abdoulaye Faye and produce a quality finish with his left peg. Gudjohnson’s first goal for Spurs and our seventeenth goalscorer of the season.

Eidur provided something that none of our other strikers can do. The ability to drop deep, receive the ball in the hole and create for others has been sorely missed since Keane lost all of his footballing ability. Modric was causing all sorts of problems by having him as an outlet and had his most impressive game in the middle.

Four minutes later our little Croatian mugged Whitehead for the second time to cost him his second yellow put Stoke down to ten men. Within five minutes the game should have been over for Stoke. We controlled possession and all we needed was that second to close the game off. A couple of neat passages of play brought a couple of decent chances however we were unable to convert.

So leading against ten men and having all the ball seems good, yeah? Not for Benny Assou-Ekotto. Seemingly he decided to go all a bit squiffy by first starting on his own man by having a bit of handbags with Charlie. Fuller done well for breaking it up and not exacerbating the issue but why Benny lashed out at his in team mate is worrying. He then decided to attempt to mount Dave Kitson (must have a thing for gingers) and give away a pointless penalty. Our former left winger Etherington slotted the pen and it looked to be typical Tottenham throwing it away. We were shocked and stumbling. Stoke, bombarding us with high balls and putting all the pressure on us. Fuller even managing to shin one over from six yards.

Once Spurs composed themselves and got back in control of possession we eventually started to impose ourselves again and the extra man showed. Benny played his way back into my good books with a burst of pace down the left produced a good cutback and Eidur let the ball run for Krancjar to beautifully twat it in just inside the box. Relief burst from Tottenham and by jove, Niko must be the sexiest player in a Spurs shirt since Ginola. His great technique produced a wonderful hit first time leaving Sorensen with no chance.

The rest of the match was far from easy viewing with Stoke managing to carve/hoof a few decent openings and a suicidal back pass header from Bassong were unpleasant to say the least but we managed to hold on. We managed to scramble and head everything Stoke threw at us with the likes of Crouch and Kaboul doing a sterling job in helping out at the back. Got to give credit to Stoke for their commitment and the reaction and celebrations from our boys at the end showed just how big a win this really is.

Previous Spurs teams would have lost this game but we seem to be growing in confidence. Grinding out results when key players are out and not particularly playing well is the sign of a good team and it seems to be a skill that we are acquiring.

Happy days.

Patience Is A Virtue

noreply@blogger.com (spud) — Tue, 16 Mar 2010 21:57:00 +0000

Who knew?

Who the bloody hell knew that Tim Sherwood actually has his uses?

Upon Harry’s arrival to N17, eyebrows were raised at the number of coaches (mates) he decided to hire. His best pals Joe Jordan and Kevin Bond were first to join the backroom staff as expected. But more were to follow

Harry updated his Facebook status to ‘Could do with a few hands at the new digs. Anyone need a sort out’ Soon enough Tim Sherwood and Sir Les returned to the club in a senior capacity.

I, more then most was sceptical as to their uses. Sure Les could help the lads with their heading but did we as a club need the expertise in the art of hacking that Sherwood brings?

Fast forward to the present a strange thing has happened. Players at Tottenham have progressed, stepped up a notch and fulfilling their potential. Our current form is impressive but the gradual improvement of the squad as a whole is testament to the sterling management job Harry and his boys have done. In nearly every position we have players who have flourished under their tenure.

Charlie Corluka will let you know how bad Heurelho Gomes was. Tony Parks came in dusted the hapless chappy down and turned him into one of the most consistent numbers 1’s in the league. Parks deserves a key to the city for resurrecting our loveable Brazilian

Bale has found platitudes coming left right and centre over the last couple of days. I’m spending most nights hiding in the bushes with a pair of binoculars watching him sleep. You will find full declaration of my man love for the Welshman here

Assou-Ekotto is another left back who found an impressive level of consistency recognised with the clubs ‘Most Improved Player’ Award last season. We are now in the envious position where we have two very strong left backs available and competing for a starting berth

Dawson has re-claimed the ‘Awesome’ tag we knew the big dopey lad had in him. He seems to have shaken off his reliance on Ledley and is not only standing on his own two feet but is leading from the back in an impressive manner

It seems an age ago Azza blud was being touted with a move to Newcastle when we signed Bentley. He was like watching Walcott, capable of scintillating performances but spent too much ‘running very fast’. He now utilises his pace effectively and has added the ability to cut inside and play the early ball. The eyebrows remain but the headless chicken is long gone.

Thuddlestone has just earned a new contract and has impressed with a slot in the starting line up. The extra responsibility is evidence of good man-management and is now looking to add to his solitary England cap.

O’Hara is now looking like a fully fledged Premiership player. Much of this can be contributed to his loan to Pompey this year. This has seen him come into his own and he will hopefully provide much needed competition next year.

Defoe to me looks a much improved player from his initial stint. Rather then sulking when he got budged off the ball the influence of Sir Les is apparent. He looks stronger, fitter and more dogged. Granted he still can’t grasp the concept of offside but we can’t expect miracles.

We expect a lot from players at Spurs but we have been spoiled this season with the impressive form of the above players. All of them have at some point in their Tottenham career been written off as not being good enough. Tim Sherwood is sorting them out

What a hero…

Sixteen Tons

noreply@blogger.com (spud) — Sun, 14 Mar 2010 22:17:00 +0000

Harry Redknapp obviously doesn‘t care about my feelings. In his pre-match interview Harry seemed itching to tell the world that he reckons nineteen points will be enough for Tottenham to reach the big time. Such bold statements leave me wrought with panic and in the run up to yesterdays game was enjoyed breathing into a brown paper bag.

I try to avoid such predictions and take each game as it comes. I may be privy on here as to predict a one off result but to set a long term target takes far more obsessive analysis of fixtures. Now all I can think about when going into any league game is how is the result going to impact on us and every other league fixture, ours or any of our rivals. My plan to be blissfully ignorant of any future games and focussing on the task at hand is now fraught with panic as now '16 points' flashes and flickers like a neon sign. Although each point will be savoured and the number slimmed down, any points dropped is now going to be met with panic attacks as to where we are going to make up lost ground.

Yesterdays game though saw us eat into Harry's challenge with a competent if not swashbuckling 3-1 win over Blackburn Rovers. I didn't write a preview of the game for other commitments but also because of a deep hatred I hold for Sam Allardyce. I’ll have to stop myself writing about him or else this will turn into a hate speech over his poxy, self important ego and fat, stupid face. Safe to say I wanted our pretty boys to smash Fat Sam's negative route one tarts.

With injuries still dogging the squad it was pretty much as you were from the team at Fulham with the exception of Defoe stepping in for a benched Crouch. We played the game in pretty much the same way too. The same issues seemed to dog us as slow build up and lack of penetration made us relatively toothless in the early part of the game. At least when playing at home we did look more urgent and busier in our play, however the fact Dawson to Bale was our most effective attacking tactic speaks much for how the game was played.

In the end our opening goal on the stroke of half time came from the unlikeliest of sources. Set piece goals have never been the strongest suit of any Tottenham team (mainly because most of our corners fail to beat the first man) but to score one again a team who rely on them was a welcome change. Niko bending one in near post, Charlie's intelligent run onto it and his deft flick to a predatory Defoe. It was like watching Blackburn which probably why that goal was particularly delicious.

Bale on the left was our strongest attacking outlet (again...not sure how many times I can say that) but his cause was helped by facing an very slow, very old man. I'm not sure how many times our wing heeled Welshman jogged past Salgado at half pace with the old man struggling to keep up but it bordered on hilarity.

Willy P was at his industrious best and I think looks better for using more controlled aggression with massive impetus being place on him never being allowed to receive a yellow ever again. Seeing as Howard Webb (more on him later) enjoys dicking us over I was sure he would receive one for any offence committed however he defended his patch masterfully.

Moddles was a little brighter than Fulham and his delightful flick to Defoe on the outside of his boot for our second was an utter joy. Pav's strike was weak and straight at the keeper but Jason Brown obviously wanted to show why he is a back up keeper proved it by letting the ball roll under his body meekly.

Pav on the whole had a poor game and showed us how limited a player he is on his left foot. Squandering chances like he was Bent, shinning them wide and over without even being able to get a clean connection. Such poor striking shouldn't be accepted for a forward at this level however he managed to score two and should have had a hatrick is how his luck is going for him at the moment. His second to put the game to bed at 2-1 was courtesy of a wonderful drilled cross on the ground from a half volley from our beautiful Bale. I’ll leave out his first effort from that passage of play…

Some controversy around Blackburn's goal (predictably from a set piece...) with Gomes apparently blocked off and Samba apparently climbing over Dawson. No complaints at CSWY about it and usually get frustrated when I see goals like that disallowed. Gomes messed up and Dawson got beat deal with it and move on. Why Spurs cannot shut out games at 2-0 is beyond me but then that wouldn't be Spurs would it.

Howard Webb usually causes trepidation within these walls and usually end up fearing the worst. However when he failed to give a penalty for a blatant foul by (an off colour) Corluka I thought the day may be ours. However Mr. Webb obviously doesn't like monkeys for when Bale was hacked inside and outside the box he didn't bat an eyelid. Also he blew up for a foul for Kalinic's perfectly reasonable goal late in the game. A bad game for the bald tit but as we got the three points less grumbles then usual.

Three points, sixteen to go. Each point is going to feel like a ton however their has been some good news. With Stoke and Sunderland nicking points off Villa and City respectively its been a good weekend. With their games in hand now having slightly less significance we can maybe start to be a little more optimistic.

Next weekend....Stoke.....away.......maybe not.

Rumours, Rumours & More Rumours

noreply@blogger.com (spud) — Mon, 08 Mar 2010 19:05:00 +0000

You can tell when it's a slow news day on the Spurs front when the transfer rumours begin in earnest. One of the biggest downfalls of supporting Spurs has to be the constant, boring speculation around our squad’s futures. It especially grates when you consider we are unable to even do business for a number of months.

Still there's nothing much else to post about other than a potential, tempestuous semi-final with Pompey (courtesy of Mr Ginola, merci beaucoup, Monsieur) but I will come to that if we don't shoot ourselves in the foot in the replay.

To make things slightly more interesting I intend to combine the recycled balls the media types think we are interested in with the brilliant album, Rumours by Fleetwood Mac (see where I'm going here...)

If you’re not a fan of the ‘Mac’ then firstly shame on you however, fret not, I'm sure the message shan't be lost on you. Quite conveniently the track list lends itself to this creative wizardry.

Track 1 - Second Hand News (Jenas to Inter)
I know there's nothing to say
Someone has taken my place
When times go bad
When times go rough
Won't you lay me down in tall grass
And let me do my stuff

The answer Jenas is a resounding, unequivocal no. Mr Marmite 'JJ' has once again been linked away to Jose Mourinho’s Serie A Champions, Inter Milan. If the rumour doesn't sound ridiculous enough with the words ‘champion’ and ‘Jermaine Jenas’ put in the same sentence then the fact this rumour began circulating when Mourinho mentioned fleetingly that JJ was in his Fantasy Football Team...two years ago, most certainly doesn’t help it along.

I have always felt that Jenas is a fine athlete and consummate professional however if you are allergic to passing the ball forward then you are going to have trouble whether it be in the Premier League or the lumbering pace in Italy. The £8 million being quoted would be snapped up by Levy but I can't see this one happening for a number of different reasons, the main one being that Jenas just simply isn't good enough regardless of the slow pace and extra space seen in Serie A. I imagine (dream) Jenas will move on in the summer but to Inter? No

Track 2 - Dreams (Keane to Celtic - permanently)
Now here you go again
You say you want your freedom
Well who am I to keep you down
It's only right that you should
Play the way you feel it
But listen carefully to the sound
Of your loneliness

Again a rumour has appeared from someone saying very little. Celtic boss Tony Mowbray was asked if he would like to keep the Irish captain for longer than the end of the season to which he replied, 'Getting him to extend his stay isn’t something that has crossed my mind. But we’ll wait and see. That’s not to say no.’ Considering Keane is head and shoulders above anyone else in Scotland is also reason enough not to say no.

I don't know about you but it doesn't sound like a statement of intent that Celtic are going to go balls out and put big money to keep our beleaguered skipper. Again much ado about nothing due to the fact Celtic simply will never be able to afford Levy's demands for him. Again I would put good money on this never happening because they themselves are skint.

Track 3 - Never Coming Back (O'Hara to Sunderland)
She broke down and let me in
Made me see where I've been
Been down one time
Been down two times
I'm never going back again
You don't know what it means to win

Jamie O has been rueing his luck as he could see himself missing another shot at playing at Wembley. After missing the Carling Cup Final after not being selected, he could miss that potential semi-final tie against us due to being unable to play against his parent club. His disappointment has gone as far as to say he would be hoping for the first time a Spurs loss. Rather than declare treachery against Jamie I admire his desire to play in a massive game at Wembley, which is the ambition for many footballers, regardless of whether it's your boyhood club or not.

It's O'Hara's desire to play first team football that has seen a number of rumours attempt to predict where he will be next season. I fully expect him to be a Spurs player next year if we obtain European football. He has proven himself to be an extremely competent Premier League footballer and his talent, attitude and versatility will come in very handy with the extra games we may have to play. Our current midfield crisis shows his worth to the team along with his consistently good performances for Portsmouth.

I know it’s pointless writing about these rumours because there will continue to be numerous players linked to/away from us even though we are competing for the FA Cup and Champions League qualification. I just want the media to stop with the bullshit and focus on what is looking to be a very exciting end to the season.

Had Draw Written All Over It

noreply@blogger.com (spud) — Sun, 07 Mar 2010 13:27:00 +0000

My pre-match ritual was slightly different yesterday. Due to the on-set of what can only be described as a life threatening case of man flu my warm up for our quarter final tie was less beer and banter more tea and a nap.

So positioning myself on the sofa, blanket in hand, my outlook was bleak. The only thing sicker than myself happened to be the Spurs squad. A lot as been made of our injury crisis but despite all that we managed to put out a very decent looking line up.

Benny was introduced at left back with our in-form man Bale shunted further up the pitch. Moddle skipped into centre mid to combine silk with Honduran iron. Fulham had a couple of their own injury issues most notably the talismanic Danny Murphy absent.

I had previously avoided the idea of breaking up partnerships that are working so was disappointed to see the promising Bale - Modric duo split. My thoughts on midfield selection can be found on a previous post as my head can't comprehend trying to remember what I think...

The match started with a lot of possession from Spurs. Delicate passing designed to flirt with Fulham with the hope of dragging them out of their set positions. We batted our eyelashes and flashed some thigh to entice Fulham, but found our rivals unmoved from their two banks of four. Such an approach to football is normally derided by our fans as being negative but the organisation and disciplined skill of our opponents is something to be admired. There should be no surprises as to why their home record is so good.

Bale looked our most promising attacking outlet (again) however by having him further up the pitch saw him often being double marked by Duff and Baird. He still caused them problems to his credit with purposeful bursts of pace but often found himself isolated. Would have liked to have seen more from Niko on the opposite flank however he remained largely anonymous.

In the middle Palacios was indomitable, snapping into challenges, considered distribution and basically a brick wall. The only way Fulham managed to find their way past him was over him and even then he tracked back and chased them down like a rabid dog. Modric again looked lost in the middle where he doesn't have the creative freedom to roam as he does when drifting in from the left.

Particularly impressed with Bassong who stuck to Zamora like a clingy ex-girlfriend. A mature considered performance from the young defender who, as opposed to attempting to rough Bobby up was willing to allow him to take possession before dealing with him. Fulham's main source of attack would have been through set pieces usually earned by Bobby. Bassong conceded very few which showed great promise from the Frenchman. He seems a lot better when given the task of handling one big striker than having to track runs from numerous different attacking outlets.

'Super Pav' showed us his form of last season. First touch of a rapist is probably the best description of an untidy, headless performance. Pav has shown he's better than this in recent games and whilst I avoided going over the top with expectations of him I still believe he will be better than that for us.

Our main problem with the game yesterday was a lack of penetration in midfield and attack. We were comfortable dealing with possession and carrying the ball for long periods of time but we missed the clever through balls of a giant man named Tom and the jinking runs of a man named Jermain. We often curse these two players but their importance was highlighted yesterday. We neither had the threat from a clumsy strike force nor from a lackadaisical midfield.

In the end the game was probably the most suitable for my disposition. A high octane, proper cup game would have killed me. We should paste them back at WHL where our home form is good and their away form is awful.

Also well done to the 4,000 Spurs fans at Craven Cottage. In full voice and good spirits they done us proud and raised a wry smile from me for your endeavour. Good show lads.

The Year Kind Of Ends In 1

noreply@blogger.com (spud) — Fri, 05 Mar 2010 21:50:00 +0000

Tomorrow's away tie is going to be tricky. Fulham away is always tricky however we are (in typical Tottenham fashion) in a mother of an injury situation at our most crucial point in the season.

I love the FA cup and really want us going balls out to win it. Considering our prestigious history in the competition 19 years since we last won it really isn't good enough. Also a quiet show from the big boys leaves us with a massive opportunity to win it again. The year does end in one... kind of, which means it’s fate and we are going to win tomorrow.

Fulham, under the affable Roy Hodgson, hold the grand title of my 'least hated team'. This isn't because half of their players are ex-Spurs but from a general fondness for a well run club. They also have made the best managerial appointment seen in the Premiership for quite some time. A lot is made out of Spurs' progress under Redknapp however Hodgson’s influence over an ailing Fulham team has been immeasurable. Also he has done it without the benefit of £50 million to splurge.

Hodgson runs his club in a way that demands the most out of the players at his disposal. This quality is something Spurs have lacked for years. There has been massive improvement in former Spurs players such as Zamora and Konchesky which is of great credit to Hodgson. He has also revitalised the stagnating careers of the likes of Duff and Murphy who have flourished under his tenure.

So to quote the obvious we are going to be in a battle tomorrow. We currently have seven wounded soldiers (King, Dawson, Huddlestone, Jenas, Bentley, Lennon, Defoe) and two unavailable comrades (Kaboul and Walker) due to them being cup-tied. Such is the extent we are calling in the kids back from their foster clubs to make up the numbers.

I can't see how Harry is going to play this so am entering it with an open mind and leaving it in the hands of the man paid to do it. Whatever he does decide to do my opinion will depend on the result. Win and he's a genius and the team I would have selected would have been exactly the same as his. Lose and he's a dick. I'm getting the hang of this blogging lark you think?

It will be interesting to see also the line up for Fulham considering their monumental clash with Juventus. Will it effect how Roy sets his team up and also how they will play? One hopes they may rest a few individuals and also have one eye on a far more glamorous away tie in Italy. Can't see it happening though and I reckon they will be at full strength.

Still reckon were a match despite all our injuries but can only see a draw from this. Zamora's bound to score and go mental at both sets of fans in his own unique brand of goal celebration and Crouchinho to equalise with a typically uncoordinated effort working in polar opposites to his England form. 1-1 for me and a replay at WHL.

Last word to ITV. Although their coverage is shit and Townsend's a knob, playing every quarter final on terrestrial TV is a valiant effort and sorted my weekend out for me, much to 'er indoors'' dismay. Credit where it's due however one request would be to quiet down when the games playing so as not to ruin it for everyone, OK Mr Pleat?

Gareth Bale Appreciation Society

noreply@blogger.com (spud) — Mon, 01 Mar 2010 19:20:00 +0000

2010 to date has been a bit of a stutter with regards to Tottenham's form and performances. Dropped points and constant accusations of long ball tactics saw our charge for Champions League football reduced to embers from the trail blaze we set in our early form

Whilst our form has stuttered and spluttered one man has risen above and comfortably been our player of the calendar year to date. Sit down Pav...

Gareth Bale has been nothing short of sensational. Since the turn of the year many were panicking at the prospect of Benny leaving us for a month for the African Cup of Nations and leaving our left hand side in the hands of a Welshman... that can't defend... and can't win.

Cries of 'great going forward but can't defend', 'defensively weak' and inexplicably linked with a move to Nottingham Forest let’s just say the omens were not looking great for the young man. Many chose to pick his poor half at Everton as the basis of their argument. Failing to see that a young player, who hasn't had a consistent run of games, may be prone to be making mistakes when being dropped into the volatile atmosphere of Goodison Park in an exposed position.

Bale is a true example of how fickle a section Spurs fans truly are. He has had severe criticisms aimed at him whilst a player of more exotic nature, Giovani Dos Santos (he played for Barca, he must be good innit) doesn't receive anything near the same level.

Opportunities were always going to be hard to come by for Bale considering the consistency of Benny makes him very difficult to drop. So Gareth knew what he had to do, roll up his sleeves, fix his hair and put on some brightly colours boots and get down to it.

I'm not sure how far he runs per game but the lad's got energy to spare akin to a small child who has had too many E numbers. He buzzes up and down the left flank with direct purpose and attacking intent. His bursts from deep see him as a valuable asset when hitting teams on the counter and catching static full backs off guard.

With or without the ball at his feet he displays strength and balance at pace which makes him so difficult to stop, especially as he's 6" plus. How often have we seen him muscling in between two defends with the ball at his feet.

His dribbling skills display a deft touch and he has the ability to not only take players on the outside but to create openings for himself with a bit of skill. His Robinho approach to stepovers against Phil Neville probably still exhibits his inexperience however he is damn exciting to watch.

One aspect of his game that has been a joy is his crossing ability. He can hit balls with accuracy deep or near post, can spot a pass in the box and strike the ball with power into dangerous areas whilst running at pace. Considering the lack of width and penetration our midfield shows without Lennon, Bale has provided the antidote to slow, lumbering build up play.

It's easy to get carried away at how good he is offensively, but he has easily become our most exciting player to watch in the absence of our resident rude boy Azza. Going forward has always been his strength but has always been susceptible to being caught out defensively whether it be through poor positional sense or selling himself short he has always had this in his game.

No serious complaints can be levelled at him currently. Considering his young age small mistakes have been kept to a minimum. He probably has too often backed off his attacker when they are running at him allowing them into the penalty area. Maybe he finds himself tucking in too much when the ball is on the opposite side of the pitch catching him out when the ball is switched quickly. However the demons of that game at Everton seem to be put behind him as he strides on.

He has not only proven himself an able deputy but must have overtaken Benny as first choice such has his stature grown in this small space of time. Credit must be given to Harry and his coaches for preparing him well and showing continued faith in him. Whatever your thoughts on Harry, the improvement in players like Azza, Gomes, Dawson and Bale has come from him gifting them faith even if their opportunities may have only come up though injury or lack of options.

I still worry about his fragility such has his injury problems in the past but if he stays injury free he will not only steal Benny’s starting spot but also claim his 'Most Improved Player' award at the end of the year too.

Then he will probably fuck off to United.....

How Do You Like Them (Toffee) Apple's

noreply@blogger.com (spud) — Sun, 28 Feb 2010 23:58:00 +0000

A game of two halves is a rather apt description as to the showing at WHL this afternoon

Following on from Man City's win at Chelsea our game at Everton could only be marked as another 'must win' in our race for fourth. Mixed emotions followed the drama at Stamford Bridge yesterday. Whilst the last thing we need is City picking up points they are expected to lose, watching Chelsea self-destruct has to be one of the most entertaining sights around in world football.

Team Bridge superseded Team Terry after the biggest build up to an arbitrary handshake had Richard Keys practically pooing himself in anticipation. The fact Bridge snubbed Terry's lacklustre hand didn't come as much as a surprise but the slow motion replays showed Sky's prerogative in the shit-stirring business. Whilst Bridge would have probably preferred stamping on Terry's syphilitic dangly bits, nicking three points off his team and their pikey fans (booing a man for being cheated on is just uncalled for) must certainly have been delicious.

So our job for today was simple...win

When settling into our early kick off nursing what can only be described as a monumental hangover, my expectations were of a long ninety minutes ahead. Everton are never an easy opponent so I wasn't getting too carried away

It may have been the medicinal beer I introduced at kick off but things seemed to be going rather well. Tottenham's sublime football from the off saw my disposition turn from deathly pallid to just a little squiffy.

With neat, slick one touch passing and a complete lack of the dreaded long ball Everton seemed to carry their Europa League hangover into N17. Modric revelled in the space afforded to him and the Toffee's had no idea how to deal with him.

Our first was probably the ugliest of the half, if you can call Huddlestone's perfectly directed ball, Defoe's brilliant take and Super Pav's anticipation ugly. We exhibited exactly how direct football should be played.

If Modric wasn't causing them too much trouble our two other Croatian’s on our right hand side took care of that. All were in inspired form pulling Everton all out of shape with deft touches and clever movement all displayed in our sexual second goal. Modric making mockery of any fan saying the little genius can't shoot with an outstanding dinked finish in of the underside of the bar.

Half time came, comfortably leading, playing well, all seemed well and good. Even changed channel at half time to catch up with forgotten son Robbie Keane such was my sunny disposition. Scottish football really is cack so went and made a sandwich instead. It was delicious.

Although 2-0 lead against Everton had an ominous ring to it, everything seemed to be going well so these feelings washed over me with expectations of continued dominance of possession and beautiful football. Also it may be denial, years of supporting Spurs I really should know better by now.

With Hudd getting injured early in the second half saw the swagger leave the pitch with him. Panic and uncertainty ensued conceding possession on numerous occasions probably highlights Huddlestone's growing importance to the team. Hoping the injury doesn't keep him out for too long.

Gomes wasn't having the best of days with crosses and set pieces which saw Everton score a mess of one. Yakubu poking one in after a catalogue of errors. Our formerly derided keeper has been outstanding for us this season so off games like today’s should be anticipated as with any other keeper. Commentator's ludicrously bringing up his previous form without acknowledging the consistency he has proved shows how blinkered and pointless their views are.

Second half held very few highlights and was watched more through my fingers, than enjoyed especially when Donovan showed how American's really play soccerball by missing a sitter, however Spurs emerged victorious on a day when they usually would have dropped points. Dawson's dominance at the back in no small way helped us over the finish line.

A good three points should douse any outside shot of Everton pipping fourth and see's us with back to back wins. More of these going into April will only see our confidence flourish. However allowing them back into the match so willingly highlights continuing weakness of our mentality and must improve if we are to grasp Champions League football.

In other news a ref bottled it in a cup final involving United...no surprises there and best wishes to Aaron Ramsey. Whatever the shirt a young player is wearing doesn't matter when it comes to a hideous injury such as his. I wish him all the best and hope the vastly gifted Welshman makes a speedy recovery

Peace

Mystery Signing's Dream Debut

noreply@blogger.com (spud) — Thu, 25 Feb 2010 08:19:00 +0000

I didn't know we bought a striker in the window. Seems we have signed Man Utd's second top scorer, Own Goal who scored two of our fours goals against a lacklustre Bolton side.

You usually know what to expect from Bolton. Eleven players of limited calibre, albeit with a lot of fight in them, who are never going to make it easy for our more cultured, softer players. Owen Coyle rested some of the 'extra limited' players and replaced them with 'regular limited' but you would still expect some fight from them.

It seems though Bolton not only rested players but also their heart and their balls. A limp performance from them put paid to their FA cup chances leaving them to concentrate on maintaining their top flight status. If performances don't improve from this one I would be very much worried for them.

Our victory was not purely down to our opponents ineptitude but also to us being very good on the day. A couple of changes left us with the expected Pav-JD strikeforce and Benny making his return to the first team deputising at right back.

Obviously with the lack of a 6'7 gentleman up top saw us play neater possession football which destroyed Bolton's rigid format. I have always defended Crouchinho, seeing him as an honest lad whose talents are often overlooked down to his bizarre appearance. However if this is how we play without him then his exclusion is on merit as opposed to popular demand from fans. Dawson's distribution was nice today with him and Bassong feeding the ball simply to the midfield as opposed to hoofing aimlessly.

Our domination of the midfield battle was too easy. These games are made for Hudd where he is able to establish time for himself, dictate tempo, switch play with astounding accuracy and generally own the midfield. However these games suit him, I remember a similar performance against West Ham earlier in the season only for him to bend over to the scousers at Anfield where he was not gifted such time and space. Hopefully he can follow up this performance with a similar one against the blue half of Merseyside on Sunday on what will be a vastly more intimidating showdown.

Bale was awesome...again...enough said. Benny simply has to perform miracles if he is to get ahead of him at left back. Back from injury and looking remarkaly like Snoop Dogg with his new facial fuzz (Bentley's poorly judged hobo look must have caused an impression) he had a relatively easy night in an unfamiliar position. Was good to see him return to action and will be interesting to see how Bale handles the added pressure of competition for his place.

Headlines will go to Pav with him scoring another brace, well and truly mugging Zat Knight for both. Two well taken clinical finishes yet Harry still failed to raise a smile but I don't care. Pav's upturn in form is similar to that of an angry Bobby Zamora and as long as Harry gives Super Pav a point to prove the better he seems to be. Gudjohnson also got a run out and looked good and even had a seemingly legit goal disallowed.

The fact we ended up with two left sided players on our right hand side shows how weak Bolton were on the day, but we dispatched them with the same worrying professionalism shown against Wigan. Surely we can't maintain such sensible performances... Everton on Sunday is massive but games like this must have done wonders for our confidence and a trip to Craven Cottage in a fortnight should be a cracker

Dare I say were on the way to Wembley??

Black Eye's, Groin Strain's & Penalty Practice

noreply@blogger.com (spud) — Tue, 23 Feb 2010 18:55:00 +0000

My day started rather well today with the delightful news of Jamie O doing Spurs proud by decking former Spurs man and epitome of mediocrity Michael Brown. Apparently dear Mikey got a little frustrated in training and was flying in with a few reckless challenges. JOH must have had a Dalmat flashback and showed him how to do things Stephane Styli

Looking at this mug makes me feel warm inside knowing he's got a black eye and the man who gave it to him is probably throwing it in Danielle Lloyd at this very moment. God bless Jamie O'Hara, a proper Yiddo.

A tackle that has had me worried today is the news that lickle Azza blud and his go-fast eyebrows are still no closer to reaching White Hart Lane after an apparent groin tweak in training. I'd love to see Lennon back as soon as possible to aid our push for fourth but would want to take every precaution not to cause him any further damage by rushing him back too soon.

Although Bentley has stepped up competently if not emphatically Lennon's speed has been badly missed. I will continue to support Bentley but his lack of pace seems to exacerbate the lack of penetration in our midfield. With Bale in inspired form down the left, our right hand currently looks pedestrian in comparison.

Probably the best news of today is that we have been practicing penalties in preparation for our FA Cup tie with Bolton tomorrow. In a typically English way we wait until we miss a bucketload of penalties until we realise that practicing them might help us score them. Inspired work from our coaching staff...

I don't think that the tie will reach penaltys tomorrow night. With reports saying a second string Bolton side will be turning up in N17 tomorrow night with a relegation battle being priority I fancy us to turn them over in 120mins. If we don’t at least we are prepared...