Thrashed at home on Sunday by Manchester United so soon after the demoralising defeat against Arsenal in the semi-final of the League Cup has left Spurs fans in a dark place. Yes, Ronaldo dived to earn an undeserved penalty for United just before half-time but so did Zokora against Portsmouth earlier in the season. After matching United for the first 44 minutes Spurs showed yet again that they lack the mental toughness to close up a game at key points. Chelsea would never allow a goal to be scored so close to half-time.
This lack of nous was demonstrated again early in the second half as United scored two more, emphasising the gulf between the top teams and, we are now in the lower half of the table again, the rest. I always think that you can gauge the level of Tottenham’s play by how Robbie Keane is playing. In both matches the Irish captain spent more time complaining to referees and opposing players than taking on defenders and it is clear that he, and Spurs, are not well.
Where to from here? UEFA Cup and FA Cup progress to the last 8 is hoped for but the mental scars of last week’s defeats may take a while to heal. Next up, away at Sheffield United, a second away win of the season would be most welcome.
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