Wouldn’t you expect Tottenham to have learned by now? But regrettably, we are here.
Spurs had a difficult away day over the weekend, losing 4-0 to Newcastle United at St. James Park. Alexander Isak scored twice for the Magpies, boosting them to sixth in the Premier League standings.
Here are three talking points from the defeat to Newcastle:
1. Lessons unlearned.
You would think Tottenham would have figured it out by now, right? But here we are. Perhaps it’s time to tighten up the defence out wide so that Micky van de Ven isn’t caught off guard on every counterattack? And don’t forget to make the most of fullbacks Destiny Udogie and Pedro Porro (or Emerson Royal, for that matter) when playing from behind.
2. Challenges with Ange’s style
Some teachings seem destined to fall on deaf ears, especially with ‘Angeball’ still in full force at Hotspur Way. Yes, when it clicks, it’s poetry in action; just ask Aston Villa. But when it fails, well, today’s outcome speaks volumes. Newcastle dominated the game for the most part, leaving Spurs looking bewildered on the pitch.
Tottenham‘s set pieces continue to be a thorn in their side, as evidenced by Newcastle’s dominance until Schar sealed the victory. Sorting out defending in dead ball scenarios should be at the top of the priority list.
Guglielmo Vicario has had a difficult time dealing with them all season, and the backline isn’t exactly rising to the occasion. Where is Gianni Vio when you need him, anyway? It’s evident that this team has a long road ahead of them before they can compete for the crown again.
There’s no sugarcoating it: Tottenham looked completely inept in their 4-0 defeat to Newcastle, who now trail Spurs in sixth position. While mistakes were made all over the pitch, Micky van de Ven has taken the brunt of the criticism for his gaffes, messing up more times than he’d want to confess and frequently finding himself out of position.
Ange Postecoglou said it best: “It isn’t simply one person’s fault. It is up to all of us. It’s hard to argue with that.
However, with missed opportunities up front and several defensive breakdowns, it’s evident that this loss was a team effort. It’s time for the Spurs to refocus or risk falling behind.
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