Tottenham Build and Blow Lead as Bale Bubble Bursts

Tottenham Hotspur did a lot right in the first part of their match with West Ham, only to do everything wrong and blow a three-goal lead in Bale’s debut.

The game plan was clear and very much matched our HotspurHQ preview. If Spurs could stop an early lead from West Ham, the team would have to stretch opportunities would be had. Moreover, if Kane could get some space, the defensive lines would have to shift, and opportunities would be had. Tottenham got both in the opening 30 minutes of the match and seemed to have the game put to bed.

West Ham had the first shot on target in the match a mere twelve second in following a long ball off the kickoff. The shot from distance by Tomas Soucek was easily handled by Hugo Lloris. Then a poor pass from Davinson Sanchez out of the back – not his only one on the day – led to a little scramble for the ball. That scramble led to the first of Tottenham’s three goals and an early lead.

Then whether it was inspired play by West Ham or a complete loss of focus on Spurs part, just as quickly as the lead was developed, Tottenham imploded gifting West Ham a point and everyone else in the league two as the in the bag three points disappeared. What was supposed to be a joyous day – and at times felt exactly that – turned into a familiar nightmare, as Tottenham Hotspur lost their nerve and the win with a last kick of the game draw