For the first time in my life I was 35,000 feet in the air when Spurs were playing on Thursday. Not only was I annoyed that I missed the chance to watch the game on television (due to flight delays earlier in the day), but by all accounts Thursday’s victory in Turkey was the highlight of our season so far. The fact that I didn’t see it though means I will have to comment on other things in today’s column.
Many teams struggle at the weekend following European exertions mid-week, and despite our previous home win against Pompey which followed a European victory, I was concerned that West Ham’s luck was going to change today. Fortunately not though, as we picked up a hard fought three points whilst reminding the Hammers that “we’re all going on a European tour.’ I had feared some witty chants from their fans about Lasagne-gate and our failure to qualify for the Champions League, but we soon silenced their ‘Champions League, you’re having a laugh’ line with ‘Premiership, you’re having a laugh.’ Indeed, West Ham’s seventh successive match without scoring has left them lying as relegation fodder – and how we like to smirk at our neighbours misfortune!
But enough of West Ham’s struggles, what about us? Well I was pleased with this afternoon’s professional performance and high concentration levels. Although we only slightly shaded the possession stakes, we were well on top in terms of attacking play. All in all a good win and another clean sheet (that’s now six in twelve matches in all competitions this season).
But the real highlight of my week was neither match; it was in fact Martin Jol’s team selections. Following Zokora’s late withdrawal on Thursday through illness, few can question the line-up selected. As for this afternoon though, I was a little puzzled to see no Berbatov, Keane or Murphy. But I take my hat off to the big Dutchman, as he obviously knew what was required. Benitez may be heavily criticised for tinkering with the Liverpool side, but perhaps MJ has a greater talent when it comes to squad rotation?
In terms of the new starters, Lennon showed his form hasn’t suffered despite an injury lay-off; Defoe looked sharp against his former employers (although how sharp his teeth are only Mascherano can answer); Mido scored a great goal and played with the commitment not usually expected of a youngster who’s had more clubs than years as a professional footballer; and Davids lasted the full ninety minutes and set the goal up. I know West Ham weren`t great, but it was a good win that we`ll take a lot of confidence from.
In the interests of balance, I will briefly mention the weaknesses in our performance. I know I sound like a stuck record, but the negatives were the same old story. We showed no real width on the left – as far as I can remember we only got one cross in from that side and that was when Davids found Mido for the goal. Other than that it would have been good to get another goal in the second half and kill the game off. To be hanging on at the end against Premiership strugglers is mildly frustrating.
All in all though, a great week and things really seem to be on the up. Come on you Spurs!
Share this article
