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Spurs Gut Reaction Rant: Win vs Crystal Palace

By Alexander Balano

English: Son Heung-Min, South Korean football player for Hamburger SV. // 9 November 2011 // Crofab - [Own work]
English: Son Heung-Min, South Korean football player for Hamburger SV. // 9 November 2011 // Crofab - [Own work] /
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A couple of firsts took place today for Spurs: Heung-Min Son’s first Premier League goal, Clinton N’Jie making his first Premier League appearance, Christian Eriksen returning since August 15 versus Stoke City. But none were more important than Tottenham earning their first win at White Hart Lane in the Premier League. The latest win is now the second of the season for Spurs and third overall when including their Europa League victory over Qarabağ FK.

During a run which included a winless August, Spurs had always started the game off strong, floundered during the middle of the game and ended the match with a flurry but coming up short and not picking up a win. Ironically, an overall subpar performance against Sunderland at the Stadium of Light saw them earn their first victory of the season, but also starting the month of September on a good note.

It would be assumed by Spurs’ August, which included good starts — and for the duration of the match versus Crystal Palace — there might have been another draw lurking to end today’s game. Instead, this time Spurs were finally justified with a win that they rightfully deserved.

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Praise must be lauded for Spurs’ starting eleven today for maintaining pressure on the Eagles and getting the ball on a majority of their 1v1 duels. Even when some players happened to lose the ball, the entire team worked as a unit to recover possession and set up well placed diagonal balls to quickly begin a counterattack. Although the only goal came in the second half during the 68th minute, it showed that Spurs were relentless in trying to breakthrough.

Obviously, things aren’t always so peachy even after today’s win.

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One concerning issue is still, Harry Kane’s drought. Depending on how long it takes him to recapture his form, the rest of the team has to pick him up.

In terms of goals scored, Heung-Min Son has stepped up with 3 goals in all competitions. Eric Dier, Nacer Chadli and Dele Alli all have one each which is a start, but not enough.

Speaking of Chadli, his starting spot would look to be in jeopardy based on Christian Eriksen’s return. While not fully fit just yet, it’s only a matter of time. Once the Danish international is 100% healthy, he would logically slide back into the #10 spot behind Harry Kane, moving Heung-Min Son wide left. Additionally, with Érik Lamela’s two latest performances which have been very good, he deserves another shot to start against Arsenal in this Wednesday’s League Cup Third Round fixture.

It’s possible that Mauricio Pochettino keeps Chadli and drops Lamela, solely based on what the Belgian has done since arriving two summers ago, but from the eye test in the win against Qarabağ and now Crystal Palace. The Argentine winger is steadily improving — or rather, remaining consistent. Whatever the starting lineup will be against Arsenal at home, Spurs will boast a very daunting advanced midfield when Christian Eriksen and Heung-Min Son are playing together. Adding in Érik Lamela, Nacer Chadli or even Clinton N’Jie (if he becomes a starter down the road) will cause trouble for opponents moving forward.

Next: Conversation Corner: Tottenham vs Qarabağ FK

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