West Brom represent Tottenham’s most difficult remaining match
By Gary Pearson
West Brom at the Hawthornes on Saturday represents Tottenham’s most difficult remaining match of the season.
Had I made that claim about six weeks ago, people would have laughed uncontrollably, to the point of absurdity.
Such is the meteoric rise of West Brom since the club sacked Alan Pardew, a necessary move the ownership made weeks, if not months, too late. Had they showed some conviction and courage, West Brom may have been able to entertain the thought of Premier League football in 2018-19. As it stands, the Baggies, barring a miracle of uncharted proportions, are destined for the Championship.
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However, the Baggies have been a revelation of late, a breath of fresh air since Darren Moore took over just over a month ago. It’s natural for a dishevelled team mired in underachievement to surge in the aftermath of a manager being sacked. But the infancy of Moore’s managerial career has been nothing short of remarkable.
Taking eight point from four matches, Moore has seen his team win at Old Trafford and St. James’ Park while holding Champions League finalists Liverpool to a draw at the Hawthornes. Not a bad body of work from a team considered the laughing-stock of the top flight prior to Pardew’s unceremonious departure.
Moore’s Baggies are playing relaxed, loose, confident and free, a dangerous combination for any opponent to navigate.
In no way, shape or form will Spurs have everything their own way. It’s a good thing Harry Kane feasts on the Baggies like a vampire on its prey. Spurs’ talisman has seven goals – three at the Hawthornes – in six Premier League encounters against West Brom.
Spurs also have history on their side. The Lilywhites haven’t lost a match at the Hawthornes in seven tests, their last defeat coming in 2008. Having said that, Spurs often struggle to pick up all three points at West Brom, having drawn four of those seven matches 1-1.
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Mauricio Pochettino’s side will have to scrap and claw to secure all three points on Saturday.
This match will have a similar feel to when Tottenham travel to Crystal Palace, most likely with a single decisive moment being the only thing that separates two teams separated by a staggering 43 points in the standings.
Look for Kane to be the provider of such a moment.