Kane and Sarr lead Tottenham ratings in Cup win over Portsmouth
By Aaron Coe
Tottenham midfield player ratings
Spur had a decidedly second-string midfield as only Oliver Skipp retained his place from the team who beat Palace midweek. Tottenham dominated the game and possession with a youthful group.
Ryan Sessegnon – 7
One of the more active players in the attacking third, Ryan Sessegnon, was looking to get the ball into the box. Although he did not consistently beat his man, he earned several corners and assisted Kane on Spurs’ goal.
Pape Matar Sarr – 8
If there was a star in the Tottenham midfield, it was Pape Matar Sarr. The 20-year-old made his third career Tottenham appearance and first start. The lanky midfielder was all over the pitch, providing competent cover for the defense and a consistent outlet for passing. Sarr never had that ‘moment’ we might want to see from him, but he looks like a player who will be contributing to this team as the schedule gets busy.
Oliver Skipp – 6
Starting for the second time in a week, after Tottenham scratched Yves Bissouma during warm-ups, Oliver Skipp missed a golden opportunity. Skipp’s play was solid but nothing near spectacular, as his touch let him down on several occasions. The biggest disappointment for Skipp invariably had to be his missed chance at about 67 minutes. A loose touch from Bryan Gil fell into Skipp’s path, but the midfielder lacked composure as the ball flew well over the top of the open net. With the run coming, it is hard to say when Skipp will get his next opportunity to shine.
Emerson Royal – 6
Disappointing many Tottenham fans starting over Djed Spence, Emerson Royal put in a shift but never impacted the game. Like Skipp, Royal had a golden opportunity, which he let slip away. Emerson did well to get in position to meet a superb Heung-min Son cross and did the right thing heading the ball back across the goal but was unlucky as his attempt bounced off the inside of the post into the hands of Joshua Griffiths.