A 2-2 draw was all Tottenham could mustered from Arsenal’s visit to White Hart Lane on Saturday.
While they went behind in the first half thanks to an Aaron Ramsey goal, Francis Coquelin’s sending off less than ten minutes into the second half seemed to give Tottenham hope. They equalized shortly thereafter and then took the lead. It wasn’t enough to kill off the game though, and in classic North London Derby style a depleted Arsenal managed a comeback.
Tottenham fans will be disappointed to not get the three points they needed to go top of the Premier League. Had the team been able to contain Alexis Sanchez and prevent the Chilean’s goal, Spurs fans might be justifiably partying in the streets.
As it stands, though, they will have to settle for an unchanged situation than the one that existed prior to the first whistle. Arsenal are trailing Tottenham by three points, and Leicester City still sits comfortably above them regardless of what happens in their match against Watford later on Saturday.
Let’s break down who did what best for Tottenham.
Hugo Lloris – 6.0
While he managed to put on a typically good performance for much of the game, his ability to get a hand on Sanchez’ shot in the 76th minute will be remembered.
Danny Rose – 7.5
Arsenal afforded Tottenham’s left-back a good amount of space to work in, and Rose used it well. He bombed down his flank often, provoking Hector Bellerin into his yellow card and keeping the Spaniard on his toes all match.
Kevin Wimmer – 8.0
Arguably the forgotten hero of this match. Managed to pluck the ball off the feet of Ramsey as the Welshman was through on Lloris’ goal in the dying minutes of the match, saving Tottenham the shame of defeat.
Toby Alderweireld – 8.5
Commanding in defense and managed to score his third goal of the season to equalize for Tottenham.
Kyle Walker – 7.0
A well balanced game from Walker as usual. Performed well in defence and helped Tottenham keep the pressure on in attack.
Mousa Dembele – 8.5
The Belgian’s return was much welcomed. His unique ability to press, distribute and generally move play forward is unmatched by anyone on this Tottenham squad.
Eric Dier – 7.5
Not perfect, but he did manage to keep Mesut Ozil mostly quiet for the entire match.
Dele Alli – 8.0
Like Dembele, Tottenham fans were thrilled to see Alli back in the line up. He looked back to his usual self, working the channels nicely and aggressively hunting down the ball wherever he could. His assist for Kane’s stunner was supremely well done.
Christian Eriksen – 8.0
With five passes that resulted in shots, Eriksen once again proved his ability to run Tottenham’s attacking engine room. Arsenal afforded him plenty of space, though unfortunately he was unable to break through.
Erik Lamela – 9.0
Say what you will about his shot taking, but Lamela’s work rate sets him apart from anyone else on the pitch. He is willing to go anywhere on the pitch to retrieve possession, and always finds a way to drive play forward.
Harry Kane – 9.5
That was arguably one of his best goals of the season so far and should remove any doubt that the England striker is struggling with his form.
Twitter Reactions:
enjoying Kane in a facemask. properly plays to his ‘kid at school who keeps getting ear infections’ vibe
— Joel Golby (@joelgolby) March 5, 2016
FT: @SpursOfficial 2-2 @Arsenal—Leicester go 5 points clear if they can beat Watford https://t.co/BeX2jTQuMv
— Bleacher Report UK (@br_uk) March 5, 2016
Engrossing game, & Arsenal may even have had best period when they were down to 10. Spurs worked hard but just lacked quality to unlock them
— Sam Wallace (@SamWallaceTel) March 5, 2016
That’s a very good result for……Leicester.
— Gary Lineker (@GaryLineker) March 5, 2016
How I feel right now and I don’t even own a guitar! #THFCvAFC pic.twitter.com/5mKr1wG04I
— Kelly Sotherton (@KellySotherton) March 5, 2016
Oh well, I dared to dream for a few minutes – always a mistake #THFCvAFC
— Robert Peston (@Peston) March 5, 2016
She is still pissed at that draw… #THFCvAFC pic.twitter.com/UYxFKZT25p
— Colin Michael (@twittacm) March 5, 2016
