Tottenham swat Hornets aside 4-0 in record-tying win

Tottenham are in dreamland at White Hart Lane after winning their record-tying 14th home game, swatting aside a stunned Hornets side.

The word “perfect” – entirely without flaws, defects, or shortcomings – shouldn’t be used lightly, or thrown around willy nilly. But it is the only word that fairly defines Tottenham’s 4-0 dismantling of Watford today. 

It was truly a treat to watch. Spurs showed their class and dominance in every facet and move. In doing so, they won their 11th straight home game, outscoring the opposition 33-6 during that stretch.

Kieran Trippier, who started in Kyle Walker’s stead, enjoyed one of his best Premier League outings. Walker’s absence was barely noticed, underpinning Trippier’s eminence on the day. He consistently flashed down the wing , effortlessly delivering pinpoint crosses at will.

Walker is irrefutably Spurs’ first-choice right back but Trippier showed a willingness and competency unbefitting of a so-called reserve player. He chipped in with an assist to go along with his Man of the Match plaudits honours.

Spurs attacking triumvirate a lethal home force

I continually make the mistake of thinking the triumvirate of Christian Eriksen, Dele Alli and Son Heung-Min can’t get anymore cohesive and threatening in Harry Kane’s absence. Admittedly, and thankfully, I’m endlessly proven wrong.

Son, who scored two magnificent goals, played out of his skin. His sprightly, energetic style of play is a nightmare to defend. Perpetually bouncing, Son’s desire to create space for his teammates is unrivalled.

Son’s unbridled desire is matched by his indisputable class. His two goals were out of the top drawer, the 24-year-old showing the kind of finishing versatility he has in his locker.

And he could have scored more, the South Korean missing a golden opportunity from a Harry Kane pass late in the second half. He also smashed a volley off the bar minutes later.

Dele Alli put in another world-class performance, underpinning exactly why he is currently the most valuable midfielder in the world. The 20-year-old gets better with every game, putting the Premier League, and the greater footballing world, on notice.

Of the three Eriksen was the most quiet, but he was by no means ineffective. His steady, workmanlike performance was emboldened by Son and Alli’s emphatic contributions.

Spurs runaway train

Like a runaway train, Spurs pick up momentum and energy with every passing match. Belief is the current buzzword in North London. And their on-field performances are buoying that buzzword’s relevance.

Moreover, Harry Kane’s return to the team will bolster that collective belief. Undefeated in eight games, Tottenham were on cruise control without their top goal scorer. Imagine what lofty heights they’ll reach with the defending golden-boot winner back at full health.

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Naturally Chelsea, when you insert Victor Wanyama and Danny Rose back into Spurs starting 11, can’t help but peer over their shoulder.

Absolutely no room for error atop the table, Chelsea know this runaway Spurs train will, provided the opportunity, knock them from their high horse without a moment’s hesitation.