Tottenham Matchday: Stoke City at Home
By Ryan Wrenn
![Jul 28, 2015; Denver, CO, USA; Tottenham Hotspur head coach Mauricio Pochettino talks with his team during training in advance of the 2015 MLS All Star Game at Dick's Sporting Goods Park. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports Jul 28, 2015; Denver, CO, USA; Tottenham Hotspur head coach Mauricio Pochettino talks with his team during training in advance of the 2015 MLS All Star Game at Dick's Sporting Goods Park. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports](https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/c_fill,w_720,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto/shape/cover/sport/215d935b2dbdae5c05f61ad5a241fcea39fc4d61c765e6c94e9706ceeddf879b.jpg)
HALFTIME
Tottenham have had a truly impressive half of soccer against Stoke City. Much like last week against United, Spurs dominated the game in the opening twenty minutes, denying Stoke possession in general and quality chances in particular. They were rewarded for their efforts by Eric Dier’s goal off a corner in the 19th minute. Stoke improved as the half wore on but couldn’t capitalize off of a misplaced pass by Hugo Lloris or a headed effort by Diouf. Tottenham’s pressing game seems wholly improved from last season.
Mousa Dembélé, Ryan Mason and Dier have been exceptional in the midfield and have been capably assisted in their efforts by Harry Kane, Christian Eriksen and Nacer Chadli dropping back from their forward positions. Chadli scored at the half’s death after a clever reactive play that began with a flick to Ben Davies as the Welshman ran into the box. His cross found Chadli who promptly converted to leave it 2-0 at the half.
Next: Final Whistle