When the draw came out, Fulham away didn`t look as difficult a fixture as it seemed in the last few days. But when the team sheets were out, it certainly put some of our worries away. Poch took the FA cup seriously for probably the first time in his tenure here. And it certainly did pay dividends. A 3-0 victory somehow flattered Fulham in what was a pretty comprehensive display of what our team possesses. The selection in my opinion had more to do with building momentum more than anything else. Playing the first team, aiding their confidence and bringing some harmony back to the club. This was far more than just a 3-0 win in the round of 16.
We started quickly, and never let Fulham settle on the ball. We pressed them high up and made it really physical. We could easily have been 1-0 or 2-0 up even before all the fans took their seats if not for some near misses in the final third. Eriksen was dictating the play and our very own Winksy ran them ragged. Once the first goal went in, everyone breathed a sigh of relief. We really needed that early goal, had the game gone to 60-70 minutes at 0-0 we surely would`ve shat our pants. There were some amazing passages of play mixed with brain farts while playing the final ball. The way we won possession at every possible attempt was fierce yet beautiful. There`s a certain kick we get when our team wins possession by fighting for it, even if it comes up to nothing it still leaves a mark on us. Because these are the signs of desire, and desire is the most basic element required to win football games.
Player Ratings
Vorm 7
Sometimes I think he`s too good to be a deputy keeper, but then if he doesn`t mind who am I to complain. Good handling and very good distribution (take note Hugo) apart from one silly moment.
Trippier 7.5
I think he had a really good game at both ends. Maybe could`ve put in a few more crosses when he had the chance too. But always an outlet for the release pass.
Alderwielreld 7.5
A regular Toby day. Hardly troubled. Never put a foot wrong (although he got one wrong with his head). Smooth as usual.
Vertonghen 7.5
Ideal game for him to make his comeback. Slotted in as if he was never away. His partnership with Toby is crucial to us and so are his occasional forward runs. Great to see him back.
Davies 6.5
Was decent defensively, but he could`ve provided so much more in attack. To be fair Son`s poor form doesn`t help him either. He needs to be more decisive in the final third. I think there`s still a slight lack of confidence.
Wanyama 8
He did what he does best, and that is breaking play and winning possession. He wasn`t just a beast today, he was this rat nibbling away the ball from everyone`s feet.
Winks 8
Everytime he plays he seems to up his game. The Bentalebs and Masons all had great debuts but never really build on them. But this guy is surely grabbing his opportunity. He`s so good in possession. Runs all day, keeps it simple and just plays fine football.
Son 6
Again disappointing from him. He wasn`t in sync with the rest of team at all. Didn`t beat his even once in the whole of 90. But then he`s probably the best option we`ve got right now.
Eriksen 9
One of his best games in a Spurs shirt distribution wise. He had magic in his feet today. Also beat his man quite a few times. Only if he could finish of the chances he had it would`ve been the perfect day for him.
Alli 8.5
He was in the mood today. Was at the heart of everything, be it high energy pressing, intricate movements, slick passing or even a few futile flicks here and there. I think he`s our best player along with Toby and Dembele. I really think so. His hunger coupled with his ability is one of the best assets we have at this club.
Kane 8.5
A hattrick in a London Derby! He must be loving these games, mustn`t he? But I still think he`s off from where he was last year. He`s still not got that touch back. Last year he was scoring goals out of nothing. This year he`s mainly dealing with tap-ins and easy finishes. Just imagine what he would it would be like if he gets back to that form.
Subs
Hardly any time to make any impact. Sissoko did go on a few runs and beat his man, but again no final product.
More of the same
We go into the game at Wembley with confidence now, it`ll be interesting to see whether we play 3 at the back or go with a flat back 4 again. It won`t be as easy as this game. The Gent players were far more technically gifted and were pretty good at retaining possession. But if we show the kind of desire we showed today, we could absolutely batter them. The draw will be out in about 15 minutes from now, let`s hope we get to play one last FA cup game at the lane.
Onwards and upwards.
COME ON YOU SPURS!