Tottenham Hotspur have been one of the most consistent sides in the Premier League since Mauricio Pochettino arrived at the club in 2014.

However, they’ve failed to turn their form on the field into trophies, falling short in the top flight along with the FA and League Cups. Spurs last lifted a trophy in 2008 when they won the League Cup by defeating Chelsea at Wembley. Since then they’ve known nothing other than disappointment.

Pochettino has desperately attempted to address the culture at the club, although he has not managed to succeed as of yet.

Tottenham have lost two high-profile semi-finals to Chelsea and Manchester United in the FA Cup over the last seasons. Spurs need to prove that they can win trophies at least at the domestic level before challenging for the Premier League and Champions League. Spurs are currently backed in the latest FA Cup betting odds at 8/1 to claim the crown and it may be the tonic to stop their chronic problem of failing to rise to the occasion in the big moments.

Spurs appeared to have addressed that issue in a watershed moment for the club in their early-season clash against Manchester United.

Pochettino’s men had defeated Newcastle United and Fulham in their opening two matches of the campaign before travelling to Old Trafford.

Tottenham had lost on their last four visits to face the Red Devils on the road. They were forced to face an early onslaught from Jose Mourinho’s team, managing to enter the break all square. Tottenham’s second-half display was outstanding, punishing United for their defensive frailties. A Harry Kane goal and a brace from Lucas Moura secured the three points and the hope that Spurs had turned the corner against the elite teams in the Premier League.

FT: Watford 2-1 Tottenham

After Monday’s win at Manchester United, Spurs come crashing back to earth.

Mauricio Pochettino’s men are beaten in the #PL for the first time this season, while Watford are four from four!#WATTOT #PL

Reaction here ?https://t.co/4JA1gxU8jR pic.twitter.com/gaGkjQrJDg

— Omnisport (@OmnisportNews) September 2, 2018

However, Pochettino’s men had to back up their fine winning display against Watford to compound their impressive start to the season.

The Hornets like Spurs had won all three of their matches and have become an incredibly strong unit at Vicarage Road under Javi Gracia.

Tottenham took the lead through an own goal Abdoulaye Doucoure, but then collapsed to a 2-1 defeat as goals from Troy Deeney and Craig Cathcart allowed Watford to snatch the three points, maintaining their 100% record.

Unfortunately for the North London side, matches like the Watford game have been symptomatic of their struggles. They’ve been consistent, but have not shown signs of being able to grasp the nettle in the big moments of the campaign.

They’re not alone as Liverpool have been eerily similar, although they look to be a strong contender for the Premier League crown.

Tottenham are still more than capable of winning the Premier League, highlighted by the quality of their win over United. The defeat to Watford was a case of one step forward two steps back in their bid to prove their credentials. The lack of signings may make it difficult in the second half of the season, but a competition such as the FA Cup could provide a spark that could allow Spurs to make a charge next term if not this one.

Posted on September 4th, 2018 by scott
Filed under: Article