Tamworth 0-3 Tottenham Hotspur(AET): The Afterthought
Tamworth are known as “The Lambs” but they certainly weren’t there for the slaughter. On the contrary, Spurs were made to work very hard to earn a 3-0 win at one of the few non-league teams left in the competition. So, what did we learn from this fiercely-fought contest?
There is no strength in depth
Ange didn’t have the luxury to play a second string side to get through the round. In hindsight, it was probably for the best because Tamworth would’ve turned that side with ease. The inclusion of Mikey Moore, Reguilon and Werner were the only changes made from a proper first team set-up.
Despite a near full-strength side, Tamworth not only played well, they also entertained thoroughly including a Maradona-esque pirouette by the veteran Haydn Hollis. Spurs had their share of chances but they could’ve easily lost the game in the dying moments of normal time had Kinsky not made that brilliant stop.
The game definitely proved one thing, while the performance wasn’t quite up to the mark, Ange Postecoglou hasn’t got the squad strength to challenge on multiple fronts. Right now the target will be to show consistency in the league and finish the job at Anfield in the crucial second leg of the League Cup semi final. Everything else should be considered secondary.
Just one more thing, try not to repeat the same performance in the next round or else it could get ugly.
Kulusevski remains Key
Dejan Kulusevski was introduced in the 90th minute alongside Spence and Son Heung-Min. He instantly changed the dynamic of the game. Not only did he grab the second goal for Spurs but he was instrumental in wresting back control of the game.
Kulusevski has been Spurs’ Player of the Year so far and you only have to watch their games to realise how important he is to them. Without Kulusevski, Spurs look toothless. There have been instances when Son has been out injured and others have been in and out of form but Kulusevski has remained consistent. Quite ironic using the word consistent with anything related to Spurs.