Spurs loan watch: Incredible drama in Belgium
By Tom Vinall
On Friday night, Spurs youngsters Luka Vuskovic and Alfie Devine were in action for KVC Westerlo against Beerschot in the Belgian Pro League on Friday night.
For the third game in a row, both players were in the starting XI. Vuskovic was again in the middle of the back three, whilst Devine again played as one of two number eights in a 3412 set up from manager Timmy Simons.
Westerlo found themselves 1-0 down at half-time, despite dominating the game and having nine shots to their opponents two.
After 57 minutes, Vuskovic headed over the bar from a corner when well placed. However, just four minutes later, he was not to be denied, heading home from a very similar position, to equalise for Westerlo.
Just five minutes later, Vuskovic had his third attempt of the game, heading over from a bit further out. After 70 minutes, the Croatian defender had yet another shot, but this time was denied by Nick Shinton.
With nine minutes left of normal time, Beerschot made Westerlo pay for the missed opportunities, as they retook the lead.
However, only three minutes afterwards, with his fifth attempt of the game, Vuskovic had his second goal of the game. Despite being his fifth attempt, it was his first with his feet, finishing with his left foot from around six yards out after a couple of deflections.
Incredibly, the 17-year old still had time for a further two shots, shooting over from range, before having another shot saved deep into stoppage time, as he looked for a remarkable hat-trick, but it wasn't to be.
Regardless, Vuskovic's brace earned his side a point. As well as the two goals, he had an incredible seven shots, had 100 touches of the ball, completed 75 accurate passes, and won 6/6 aerial duels in a dominant display. He has now scored four goals in ten Belgian Pro League games, as well as providing one assist, winning over three aerial duels a game, and making over six clearances a game.
Devine also played the 90 minutes, encouragingly, and had a fair display - having 66 touches, completing 2/3 long balls, two shots, making three tackles, and an interception.
This draw leaves KVC Westerlo 4th in the Belgian Pro League, with 15 points from 10 games. However, with all the games in hand, they are likely to head into the international break a bit lower.