Spurs under 18’s 4-3 Leicester City: (match report)

Our under 18’s took on Leicester City on Saturday morning at the ‘ Foxes ‘ Belvoir Drive training ground in what was Spurs’ last competitive game of 2019. Matt Taylor’s side came on top in a thrilling encounter in the Midlands, as Spurs fought back from being 3-1 down to win 4-3 courtesy of goals from Kion Etete, Dennis Cirkin, J’Neil Bennett and Max Robson. Spurs showed great spirit in the second half to fight back against a strong Leicester side however, it was a close game. Spurs lined up in their usual 4-2-3-1 formation as Thimothee Lo-Tutala started in goal. A back four consisting of Kallum Cesay, Dermi Lusala, Luis Binks and Dennis Cirkin lined up in front of him. Harvey White and Max Robson anchored the midfield while Tarrelle Whittaker and J’Neil Bennett operated out on the flanks either side of CAM Rafferty Pedder. Kion Etete returned from injury to lead the line for Spurs. 

Spurs got the game underway on a very chilly morning at Belvoir Drive however, it was Leicester who managed the first goal attempt of the game after Terel Pennant blasted an effort over Thimothee Lo-Tutala’s crossbar from long range. A couple of minutes later Pennant cut inside from the left flank before smashing the ball against Lo-Tutala’s left hand post, the ball bounced into the path of Leicester’s Kian Pennant who tapped home, but he was ruled offside. There was a good early tempo to the game as both sides started the match with attacking intent. Tarrelle Whittaker had a shot blocked by Dennis Gyamfi before then curling an effort just wide of Oliver Bosworth’s goal. Kion Etete then met Harvey White’s lofted pass before heading the ball wide of Bosworth’s goal, before Leicester had a penalty appeal waived away after Kallum Cesay made a challenge on Terel Pennant inside the Spurs penalty area.

Tarrelle Whittaker then saw his cut back take a slight deflection off of Leicester’s Tom Sams before going just wide of the goal. Harvey White’s corner kick was met by Dennis Cirkin who saw his powerful header tipped over the crossbar by Leicester goalkeeper Oliver Bosworth. Dennis Cirkin then saw his promising low cross cleared away by Sams. Leicester broke forward as Terel Pennant passed the ball to Tawansa Jethro Maswanhise on the edge of the Spurs box however, he dragged his shot just wide of Lo-Tutala’s goal courtesy of a deflection off of Dermi Lusala and the game continued to be an even one. After receiving Rafferty Pedder’s pass out on the left flank J’Neil Bennett whipped the ball dangerously across the face of Oliver Bosworth’s goal. A couple of minutes later Cirkin passed the ball to Etete inside the Leicester box but he shot wide of Bosworth’s goal. Harvey White then had a corner kick cleared away by Kasey McAteer before Max Robson cleared away Liam Loughlin’s corner kick at the other end of the pitch. A couple of minutes later and after bursting forward down the left wing Terel Pennant shot wide of Lo-Tutala’s goal.

Leicester took the lead in the 33rd minute of the game after Dennis Gyamfi latched onto goalkeeper Oliver Bosworth’s pass before giving the ball to Tawansa Jethro Maswanhise down the right wing. Maswanhise squared the ball for Liam Loughlin who tapped the ball past Lo-Tutala and into the back of the net, 0-1. Tarrelle Whittaker responded for Spurs by having a shot on goal blocked by Loughlin before Spurs drew level through Kion Etete. After receiving Kallum Cesay’s pass out on the right wing Max Robson passed the ball to Kion Etete who had his back to goal inside the Leicester box. Etete sharply turned around before firing the ball into the bottom left hand corner of Bosworth’s goal, 1-1. After receiving Terel Pennant’s pass down the left wing the overlapping Bailey Aisthorpe’s cross was tapped home by Kian Pennant as Leicester instantly regained the lead, 1-2. Spurs attempted to respond again. Harvey White’s hopeful cross was gathered by Oliver Bosworth before Dennis Gyamfi burst forward down the right flank before passing the ball to Tawansa Jethro Maswanhise inside the Spurs box however, Lusala blocked his shot on goal well. 

Harvey White then cleared away Maswanhise’s corner kick before Rafferty Pedder’s effort from distance was saved by Oliver Bosworth. Shortly before half time Kallum Cesay conceded a penalty after deeming to have fouled Maswanhise inside the Spurs box. Sidnei Tavares stood up before slotting the ball straight down the middle of the goal to make it 3-1 to the home side. The referee sounded his whistle for half time a couple of moments later. Spurs made a change at half time as Matt Taylor brought on Enock Asante who replaced Tarrelle Whittaker out on the right flank. Leicester got the second half underway and shortly after the restart Harvey White had a free kick cleared away by Tom Sams, before Lo-Tutala gathered Terel Pennant’s corner kick. Enock Asante had a good cross gathered by Oliver Bosworth before Dennis Gyamfi nodded over Tawansa Jethro Maswanhise’s cross. A couple of minutes later and after latching onto Bailey Aisthorpe’s pass Kian Pennant thumped the ball against Thimothee Lo-Tutala’s left hand post. Harvey White then drove a free kick wide of the Leicester goal.

Kallum Cesay was shown a yellow card for committing a foul before Thimothee Lo-Tutala managed to save Terel Pennant’s curling effort on goal. Kian Pennant then came inside Dermi Lusala in the Spurs box before shooting wide of the goal befor Max Robson was shown a yellow card. Luis Binks cleared Liam Loughlin’s free kick before Dennis Cirkin headed over Harvey White’s free kick. Loughlin then blocked Harvey White’s effort from long range. Thimothee Lo-Tutala saved Liam Loughlin’s effort from distance before Kian Pennant shot an effort wide from range. Dennis Cirkin volleyed a speculative effort wide of the Leicester goal from range. Spurs pulled a goal back on 69 minutes through Max Robson. After receiving J’Neil Bennett’s pass Dennis Cirkin gave the ball to Max Robson on the edge of the Leicester penalty area and the Tottenham midfielder calmly fired the ball into the bottom left hand corner of Oliver Bosworth’s goal, 2-3. Less than four minutes later Spurs drew level after Dennis Cirkin volleyed home Harvey White’s corner kick from close range, 3-3.

Thimothee Lo-Tutala managed to gather Bailey Aisthorpe’s cross before Spurs attacked the Leicester defence. The young Lilywhites then made it 4-3 after Enock Asante’s cross from the right wing fell to J’Neil Bennett who smashed the ball past Oliver Bosworth at his far post. After Harvey White had whipped a free kick into the Leicester box Luis Binks latched onto the ball. The tall central defender passed the ball to J’Neil Bennett whose effort on goal was well saved by Oliver Bosworth. Harvey White then had a corner kick cleared away by Harvey Godsmark-Ford before Max Robson was shown a yellow card for making a foul on a Leicester player. Rafferty Pedder dragged a low effort wide from range before Aaron Skinner came onto replace midfielder Max Robson. Dennis Cirkin did well to clear Dempsey Arlott-John’s corner kick before Dennis Gyamfi headed over Terel Pennant’s corner kick a couple of moments later. Right winger Romaine Mundle came onto replace Enock Asante who inured his hamstring in stoppage time, before the referee brought a very exciting game of football to an end.

Player reviews:

• Thimothee Lo-Tutala: The Tottenham goalkeeper made two saves in total (both of which were good) and he did a good job at talking the Spurs defenders through the game.
• Kallum Cesay: The right back defended tenaciously however, he also went on several good bursts forward into Leicester’s half of the pitch. This was another good performance from the 17 year old. 
• Dermi Lusala: Considering that he was playing out of position (at RCB) I thought that he did a good job for Spurs in central defence. Lusala made one really important block in the game, and he also made some timely interceptions and challenges. Lusala also brought the ball out well from the back. 
• Luis Binks: Operating at LCB Binks put in yet another strong performance as he defended well and won the vast amount of his aerial duels.
• Dennis Cirkin: The attacking left back put in a good performance at both ends of the pitch as he chipped in with a goal and an assist. Cirkin went on some good forward runs but he stayed deep when he needed to, and made some timely interceptions. Cirkin volleyed home his goal well from Harvey White’s corner kick.
• Harvey White: The CDM had great vision for a pass (he chipped in with an assist) and he did a good job at breaking up play and recycling possession. White also kept good positioning and he worked very hard for the team throughout the match. 
• Max Robson: My man of the match, see below. 
• Tarrelle Whittaker: The 17 year old only played the first half of Saturday’s game. Whittaker went on some good bursts down the right flank and he was very direct in his play. 
• Rafferty Pedder: This was a very good attacking performance from the second year scholar who put in one of his best performances of the season for Spurs. Pedder used the ball very intelligently and he went on several good jinking forward runs through the middle of the park. During the first half Pedder would release the ball quite quickly after receiving it however, during the second half he went on much longer more skilful runs which helped to really test and open up the Leicester defence, and he also showed very good strength on the ball.
• J’Neil Bennett: After struggling to get on the ball much during the first half, Bennett really grew into Saturday’s game and he had a strong second half. The skilful left winger did well to score our decisive fourth goal of the game and he was also involved in another of our goals. Bennett also tracked back well after himself.
• Kion Etete: The tall centre forward made his return from injury on Saturday and he put in a good shift for the team. Etete took his goal really well after turning sharply inside the Leicester box. However, it was the second year scholars work rate which impressed me most on the day. 
• Enock Asante: Asante replaced Whittaker out on the right wing at half time and he went on some really good forward runs down the right flank. Asante’s hard work was rewarded when he got an assist.
• Aaron Skinner: The defender came on for the end of the game and he slotted into central midfield. Skinner made a couple of decent challenges and he really got stuck in during his short time on the pitch. 
• Romaine Mundle: N/A.

My man of the match: The impressive Max Robson. The central midfielder had a great influence on Saturday’s game against Leicester City, chipping in with a goal and an assist Robson pressed the Leicester players very aggressively and he was always up in their faces. Furthermore the Haywards Heath born midfielder did a good job at linking play and the first year scholars movement was nice and sharp. Robson showed good vision to pick out Kion Etete for our first goal of the game and he also fired home his own goal nicely. The 17 year old also went on one excellent long run which ended in him performing a Marseille turn on Leicester defender Tom Sams. This was a very good all round performance from Robson, who has now been directly involved in ten goals in all competitions this season for Spurs.

Spurs: Lo-Tutala, Cesay, Cirkin, White, Lusala, Binks, Whittaker (Asante 56 (Mundle 90)), Robson (Skinner 85), Etete, Pedder, Bennett. Substitutes (not used): Kurylowicz, Carrington.

Spurs under 18’s statistics 2019/20:

Goals: 

Tarrelle Whittaker – 6

Max Robson – 5

Chay Cooper – 4

Kion Etete –  4

Enock Asante – 3

J’Neil Bennett – 3

Kallum Cesay – 2

Rafferty Pedder – 2

Troy Parrott – 2

Dennis Cirkin – 2

Dane Scarlett – 1

Harvey White – 1

Assists

Chay Cooper – 5

Max Robson – 4

Tarrelle Whittaker – 3

Dermi Lusala –  3

Romaine Mundle – 3

Kion Etete – 2

Troy Parrott – 2

Rafferty Pedder – 2

Dennis Cirkin – 2

Harvey White – 2

Enock Asante – 2

Luis Binks – 1

Michael Craig – 1

Eddie Carrington – 1

Kallum Cesay – 1

Marqes Muir –  1

Yago Santiago – 1

J’Neil Bennett – 1

Clean sheets: 

Kacper Kurylowicz – 2

Joshua Oluwayemi – 1

Spurs under 18’s versus Leicester City: (match preview)

Our under 18’s final game of 2019 is a league encounter with Leicester City on Saturday, at the ‘ Foxes ‘ Belvoir Drive training ground. Matt Taylor’s side will be looking to end the year on a high. They’ll also be looking to record their first league win since September. Leicester City occupy fifth spot in the Premier League South table after picking up 14 points from their opening ten league games. Trevor Peake has a squad of very talented young players and although the ‘ Foxes ‘ were knocked out of this seasons FA Youth Cup at the first time of asking, they will still be a tough side to beat on Saturday owing to their decent form in the league. Some of the Leicester players that the Spurs lads will have to be wary of, include forward and top scorer this campaign with three league goals Dempsey Arlott-John, commanding goalkeeper Oliver Bosworth and tricky Irish winger Shane Flynn. 

Last season Spurs beat Leicester by four goals to nil at Belvoir Drive before then going onto lose 4-3 to the ‘ Foxes ‘ on the final day of the league season. I have noticed from the last couple of seasons that Leicester like to play with a lot of width, similar to fellow Premier League South side Southampton who incidentally were the last team that Spurs beat in the league (back in September). This will be a tough game for Matt Taylor’s side however, they will be hoping to repeat last seasons excellent performance over the Midlands based club. I would like to wish the lads all the very best of luck for this game. In other news our under 18’s will face Wigan Athletic in the fourth round of the FA Youth Cup after the ‘ Tics ‘ beat Croydon FC 8-1 on Tuesday night, that tie will be played next month.

My predicted lineup: (4-2-3-1) Kurylowicz, Lusala, Muir, Skinner, Cirkin (c), Robson, Cesay, Cooper, Pedder, Bennett, Whittaker.

Subs from: Lo-Tutala, Kyezu, Santiago, Mundle, Asante.

Injured/unavailable: Malachi Fagan-Walcott (serving the last of a three game ban), Michael Craig.

Doubtful: Nile John, Matthew Craig, Kion Etete. 

Previous meeting: Spurs 3-4.

My score prediction: Spurs 3-2.

My one to watch: Tricky Irishman Shane Flynn (formerly of Bray Wanderers) primarily operates out on the left wing. Flynn put in a very good performance against Spurs in this fixture last season, going on many impressive jinking runs down the right flank. 

Spurs under 23’s versus Manchester City: (match preview)

Our under 23’s take on the PL2’s basement club Manchester City on Sunday afternoon. Wayne Burnett’s side have won their last two league games against both Everton and Liverpool respectively. Spurs are only six points of top place Chelsea in division one and their hopes of winning the PL2 are still very much alive. Manchester City on the other hand have very much struggled for form this season, picking up only nine points from 12 league games. Paul Harsley’s side who sit in 12th place in division one, still have a number of very talented young players in their development side. Skilful Dutch winger Jayden Braaf is one, and another two are attacking players Ben Knight and Ian Poveda. Another player worth mentioning is Irish goalkeeper Gavin Bazunu (17) and midfielder and Man City captain Tommy Doyle.

Spurs defeated Manchester City very comfortably in the reverse fixture back in August and their passing game proved to be too much for the Lancashire based club on the day. On Sunday afternoon Spurs will be looking for a repeat of that excellent early season performance, and if our last two games are anything to go by then you would have to fancy our chances of making it three wins in a row. This promises to be a really interesting game of football that’s why it’s extremely disappointing that the ‘ Sky Blues ‘ have decided to make this game behind closed doors, with no exception being made to even the parents of the players. Hence I shall not be reporting on the game however, I would like to wish the lads all the very best of luck!

My predicted lineup: (4-2-3-1) De Bie, Eyoma (c), Lyons-Foster, Binks, Hinds, White, Oakley-Boothe, Markanday, Shashoua, Patterson, Richards.

Subs from: Oluwayemi, Okedina, Dinzeyi, Robson, Bennett.

Injured/unavailable: Malachi Fagan-Walcott.

Doubtful: Kion Etete, Jamie Bowden, Jeremie Mukendi.

Previous meeting: Spurs 3-1.

My score prediction: Spurs 3-1.

My one to watch: The ‘ Sky Blues ‘ 17 year old Dutch winger Jayden Braaf who has netted five goals from ten appearances in the PL2 so far this season. 

Spurs under 19’s 0-3 Bayern Munich: (match report)

Our under 19’s took on Bayern Munich in Germany on Wednesday afternoon in their final UEFA Youth League group stage game. Ryan Mason’s Spurs side needed to better Crvena zvevda’s result against Olympiacos to qualify for the play off round of the competition. Unfortunately Spurs bowed out of the prestigious competition after losing 3-0 to Bayern Munich at their training campus. Spurs were dominated for large periods of yesterday’s game and they could have few complaints at being knocked out of the competition. Bayern Munich netted one goal in the first half and two more in the second half. Spurs lined up in their usual 4-2–3-1 formation as Josh Oluwayemi started in goal. A back four made up of Brooklyn Lyons-Foster, Malachi Fagan-Walcott, Luis Binks and Dennis Cirkin sat in front of him. Captain Jamie Bowden and Tashan Oakley-Boothe partnered up in central midfield while Dilan Markanday and J’Neil Bennett operated out on the flanks, either side of CAM Harvey White. Rodel Richards operated up front for Spurs.

Spurs got Wednesday’s game underway and it took the game a while to get going. Dilan Markanday had an early cross cleared away by Flavius Daniliuc before Malachi Fagan-Walcott cleared away Flavius Daniliuc’s cross. Bayern Munich took the lead in the 20th minute of the game through none other than Daniliuc. The Austrian defender met Taylor Booth’s corner kick before nodding the ball goal bound. His effort deflected off of Luis Binks before nestling in the left hand corner of the goal, 0-1. Harvey White cleared away Taylor Booth’s free kick as Spurs struggled to break Bayern Munich down. Jamie Bowden’s corner kick was cleared away by Daniliuc before J’Neil Bennett curled an effort wide on the edge of the Bayern Munich box after receiving Dilan Markanday’s pass. A good Spurs move a couple of minutes later saw Cirkin pass the ball to Bowden who gave it to Markanday down the left side of the Bayern Munich box, but his whipped effort looped wide of the goal. Luis Binks was shown a yellow card for a strong challenge on Jamal Musiala before the referee sounded his whistle for half time.

Bayern Munich got the second half underway and they soon came close to doubling their lead after Jamal Musiala passed the ball to Taylor Booth inside the Spurs box. However, Booth’s powerful effort on goal was superbly tipped over the crossbar by Oluwayemi. Taylor Booth’s whipped free kick was headed home by Bright Arrey-Mbi on 51 minutes to double Bayern Munich’s advantage before Jamal Musiala had a shot blocked in the Spurs box by Luis Binks. J’Neil Bennett then had a shot blocked by Arrey-Mbi. After striding forward down the right hand side of the Spurs box Ryan Johansson forced a decent save out of Josh Oluwayemi from a tight angle. Benjamin Hoffman saw an effort deflect wide off Spurs’ Brooklyn Lyons-Foster before Jamie Bowden injured himself after blocking Jamal Musiala’s shot. Oluwayemi then saved Taylor Booth’s effort from distance before the injured Jamie Bowden was replaced by Paris Maghoma. After Ryan Johansson passed the ball to Jahn Herrmann in the Spurs box the Bayern Munich substitute dragged an effort narrowly wide of Oluwayemi’s goal.

Maurizio Pochettino came onto replace Dilan Markanday on the right flank. Soon after coming on Pochettino’s good cross came to Bennett inside the Bayern Munich box however, his effort on the turn was blocked by Arrey-Mbi. J’Neil Bennett then nodded wide Dennis Cirkin’s cross before Paris Maghoma’s whipped cross was cleared behind by Arrey-Mbi before Pochettino could get to the ball. Luis Binks then headed wide Tashan Oakley-Boothe’s lofted pass before Bennett had an effort saved by Jakob Mayer down the left side of the Bayern Munich box. Angelo Stiller slotted home to make it 3-0 after receiving Malik Tillman’s pass in the Spurs box, 0-3. Max Robson came onto replace Rodel Richards before Marvin Cuni had an effort on goal tipped onto the post by the hand of Oluwayemi. Marqes Muir then came onto replace Brooklyn Lyons-Foster before Malik Tillman fired an effort over Oluwayemi’s box. Tillman then nodded over Oliver Batista Meier’s cross before the referee brought the game to an end.

My man of the match: 18 year old goalkeeper Josh Oluwayemi was in my opinion our best player on Wednesday afternoon. Oluwayemi made four saves on the day and he made a couple of good ones, most notable of which was the teenagers superb save to deny American Taylor Booth in the second half. Oluwayemi dealt well with crosses and his distribution was good on the day. 

Bayern Munich: Mayer, Waidner (Bruckner 67), Daniliuc (c), Arrey-Mbi, Hofmann, Booth (Stiller 67), Lawrence, Batista Meier, Musiala (Tillman 58), Johansson (Cuni 77), Halbich (Herrmann 58). Substitutes (not used): Schneller, Mihaljevic.

Spurs: Oluwayemi, Lyons-Foster, Fagan-Walcott, Binks, Cirkin, Oakley-Boothe, Bowden (c) (Maghoma 62), White, Markanday (Pochettino 62), Richards (Robson 79), Bennett (Muir 85). Substitutes (not used): Lo-Tutala, Lusala, Pedder.

Spurs under 19’s versus Bayern Munich: (match preview)

Our under 19’s will take on German side Bayern Munich on Wednesday afternoon in their final UEFA Youth League group stage game of this season. Ryan Mason’s side need to better Serbian side Crvena zvevda’s result against Olympiacos to progress to the play off round of the competition. That’s a tough ask for Spurs who face a big test at Bayern Munich’s training facility tomorrow afternoon (the game is live on BT Sport). The opposition, Bayern Munich sit at the top of group B and they have already comfortably qualified for the next round of the competition. Boasting a wealth of attacking talent, two of Bayern Munich most dangerous attacking players to look out for are attacking midfielder Malik Tillman (he has scored ten domestic goals this season) and physical Dutch centre Joshua Zirkzee. Meanwhile, Spurs will likely be without a number of their most important players on Wednesday due to possibly being part of the first team squad for their game (notably Troy Parrott). This will be a tough game for the lads however, I wish them all the very best of luck for it. 

My predicted lineup: (4-2-3-1) Oluwayemi, Eyoma, Fagan-Walcott, Binks, Cirkin, White, Bowden (c), Markanday, Robson, Maghoma, Richards.

Subs from: De Bie, Muir, Lusala, Oakley-Boothe, Pedder, Pochettino, Asante.

Injured/unavailable: Michael Craig.

Doubtful: Matthew Craig, Kion Etete, Nile John, J’Neil Bennett.

Previous meeting: Spurs 1-4.

My score prediction: Spurs 2-1.

My one to watch: Bayern Munich’s 18 year old Dutch centre forward Joshua Zirkzee who has netted four goals from three appearances in this competition this season. Zirkzee impressed in the reverse fixture at Hotspur Way.

Spurs under 18’s 2-3 Reading: (match report)

Our under 18’s took on Reading at Hotspur Way in the premier league south on Saturday morning. Matt Taylor’s side started the game well, opening the scoring on 16 minutes through Dennis Cirkin. Then three minutes later Reading’s Jeriel Dorsett scored an own goal to make it 2-0 to the young Lilywhites. However, a second half fight back from the ‘ Royals ‘ overcame Spurs’ dominance in the first half, and three well executed Reading goals sunk Spurs. Matt Taylor’s side lined up in their usual 4-2-3-1 formation as Kacper Kurylowicz started in goal. A back four consisting of Dermi Lusala, Marqes Muir, Aaron Skinner and captain Dennis Cirkin lined up in front of him. Kallum Cesay teamed up in central midfield while Romaine Mundle and Chay Cooper operated out on the flanks, either side of CAM Rafferty Pedder. Tarrelle Whittaker led the line for Spurs. Reading got the game underway on a sunny morning at Hotspur Way. An early Spurs move resulted in Robson passing the ball to Lusala whose cross into the Reading box was headed behind (it almost crept into the goal) by Jeriel Dorsett. A couple of minutes later Max Robson passed the ball to Romaine Mundle whose effort on goal was spilt by Reading’s goalkeeper Harvey Collins, with Robson almost getting on the end of the loose ball. 

After a decent start to the game from Spurs the young Lilywhites continued to come at Reading. After the impressive Dennis Cirkin cut inside from the left flank he fired an effort on goal on his right foot which was saved by Harvey Collins. Then in the 16th minute of the game Spurs took the lead through none other than Dennis Cirkin. After embarking on a long lung bursting run down the left flank Cirkin passed the ball to Mundle before making a run into the Reading penalty area where he met Mundle’s resulting cross. Cirkin headed the ball in off Harvey Collins’ right hand post, 1-0. A couple of minutes after the restart and after receiving Nelson Abbey’s pass Augustus McGiff had a shot on goal blocked by Aaron Skinner, before Spurs doubled their lead. After receiving Max Robson’s pass out on the right wing Chay Cooper surged forward, before whipping the ball into the Reading box where it was turned into his goal by Jeriel Dorsett who had attempted to clear the ball, 2-0.

Reading responded, after Pedro Neves’ long pass picked out Thierry Nevers in the Spurs box Nevers volleyed an effort a fraction wide of Kurylowicz’s goal. Dermi Lusala then had a cross gathered by Harvey Collins before Max Robson whipped an effort wide of the Reading goal from the edge of the oppositions danger zone. Dermi Lusala was shown a yellow card for a challenge on Thierry Nevers. After Aaron Skinner cleared away a free kick from Thierry Nevers, Nahum Melvin-Lambert had a shot on goal saved by Kacper Kurylowicz. After going on a long surging run through the middle of the park Tarrelle Whittaker forced a save out of Harvey Collins before Chay Cooper fired the ball into the side netting. A couple of minutes later and after receiving Kallum Cesay’s pass Tarrelle Whittaker passed the ball to Max Robson whose effort on goal was tipped over by Harvey Collins. Tarrelle Whittaker then shot wide after receiving Marqes Muir’s long pass. Spurs continued to attack and after Cirkin received Mundle’s pass the left back surged forward, he beat Reading’s Josh Hewitt before entering the penalty area. However, Cirkin’s eventual shot on goal was blocked by Jeriel Dorsett.

Marqes Muir cleared away Pedro Neves’ cross before Chay Cooper managed to win a free kick on the edge of the Reading box. However, Tarrelle Whittaker’s resulting effort was saved by Harvey Collins. After drifting inside from the right flank Pedro Neves forced a save out of Kacper Kurylowicz before the referee blew for half time. Spurs got the second half underway and they soon came close to extending their lead after Tarrelle Whittaker headed Dermi Lusala’s just wide of Harvey Collins’ goal. After running down the left flank Thierry Nevers had a deflected effort saved by Kurylowicz who shortly afterwards passed the ball to Augustus McGiff, who after receiving the ball was brought down in the box by Lusala resulting in a penalty for Reading. Josh Hewitt stepped up before slotting the ball into the left hand corner of the goal, 2-1. McGiff then had a shot blocked by Lusala on the edge of the Spurs box before Spurs made a double substitution as Matt Taylor brought off Romaine Mundle and Dermi Lusala for J’Neil Bennett and Harvey White. Reading drew level shortly afterwards, after Augustus McGiff passed the ball to Lynford Sackey down the right wing. Sackey cut the ball back to Nelson Abbey in the Spurs box and he slotted the ball past Kacper Kurylowicz, 2-2.

Dennis Cirkin cleared away Augustus McGiff’s free kick before McGiff blazed the ball over Kurylowicz’s crossbar. Reading substitute Alfie Anderson whipped the ball dangerously across the face of the Spurs goal before Bennett went on an excellent long run into the oppositions penalty area before passing to Cooper who blazed the ball over Collins’ crossbar. Yago Santiago came onto replace Rafferty Pedder before Harvey White first had a cross and then a free kick gathered by Harvey Collins. Max Robson had a shot on goal blocked by Aaron Skinner in the Reading box before Harvey White had a shot blocked by Josh Hewitt. J’Neil Bennett was taken off injured by Spurs as we were reduced to ten men before Reading netted a late winner. After Thierry Nevers had passed the ball to Augustus McGiff down the right side of the Spurs box McGiff had an effort parried by Kurylowicz before Nahum Melvin-Lambert fired home from close range. Nelson Abbey tested Kacper Kurylowicz from long range before the referee sounded the final whistle to bring an end to Spurs’ penultimate game of 2019.

My man of the match: Attacking left back Dennis Cirkin put in an excellent performance for our under 18’s on Saturday. Chipping in with a goal Cirkin had a very good game for Spurs both in attack and defence. The Dublin born fullback took his goal well and he defended solidly however, it was his many excellent and highly skilful slaloming runs down the left flank which impressed me the most. It was a performance that the second year scholar could be very proud of.

Spurs: Kurylowicz, Lusala (White 60), Cirkin (c), Cesay, Muir, Skinner, Cooper, Robson, Whittaker, Pedder (Santiago 77), Mundle (Bennett 60). Substitute (not used): Lo-Tutala.

Spurs under 18’s statistics 2019/20:

Goals: 

Tarrelle Whittaker – 6

Chay Cooper – 4

Max Robson – 4

Enock Asante – 3

Kion Etete –  3

Kallum Cesay – 2

Rafferty Pedder – 2

J’Neil Bennett – 2

Troy Parrott – 2

Dane Scarlett – 1

Harvey White – 1

Dennis Cirkin – 1

Assists

Chay Cooper – 5

Max Robson – 3

Tarrelle Whittaker – 3

Dermi Lusala –  3

Romaine Mundle – 3

Kion Etete – 2

Troy Parrott – 2

Rafferty Pedder – 2

Luis Binks – 1

Michael Craig – 1

Eddie Carrington – 1

Kallum Cesay – 1

Marqes Muir –  1

Enock Asante – 1

Yago Santiago – 1

Dennis Cirkin – 1

Harvey White – 1

J’Neil Bennett – 1

Clean sheets: 

Kacper Kurylowicz – 2

Joshua Oluwayemi – 1

Spurs under 23’s 4-0 Liverpool: (match report)

Our under 23’s took on Liverpool in the PL2 at Hotspur Way on Friday afternoon. Wayne Burnett’s side had previously beaten the ‘ Reds ‘ 4-0 in the reverse fixture earlier on in the season. Spurs managed to beat Liverpool by the same score line today at Hotspur Way in what was a very good performance indeed from Burnett’s lads. It was an entertaining and highly eventful game in which saw two players sent off and two penalties given. Spurs took the lead in the first half through Rodel Richards. Then in the second half defensive midfielder Jamie Bowden netted an unexpected hat-trick to secure the victory for Spurs. Inbetween that Liverpool and Spurs had players sent off in what was an entertaining second half of football. Spurs lined up in their usual 4-2-3-1 formation as Josh Oluwayemi started in goal. A back four made up of TJ Eyoma, Malachi Fagan-Walcott, Luis Binks and Tariq Hinds sat in front of him. Captain Jamie Bowden and Tashan Oakley-Boothe anchored the midfield while Dilan Markanday and Phoenix Patterson operated out on the flanks, either side of CAM Armando Shashoua. Rodel Richards operated as the lone centre forward.

Spurs got the game underway on a cool day at Hotspur Way. After knocking the ball around well during the opening minutes of the game, Spurs’ Rodel Richards blocked Herbie Kane’s early effort on goal from the edge of the Spurs box. A good Spurs move followed as Markanday passed the ball to Richards who gave it to Phoenix Patterson on the edge of the Liverpool penalty area. Patterson’s following effort on goal struck Caoimhin Kelleher’s crossbar, then a couple of minutes later and after receiving Armando Shashoua’s pass, Tashan Oakley-Boothe fired an effort over Kelleher’s crossbar from the edge of the Liverpool box. Spurs’ early pressure was rewarded when they took the lead in the 20th minute of the game through Rodel Richards. Another good move saw Luis Binks pass the ball to Tariq Hinds who slipped a perfectly weighted pass through to Rodel Richards who ran into the Liverpool box with only Kelleher to beat. Richards kept his composure in front of goal before calmly slotting the ball through the legs of the Liverpool goalkeeper and into the back of the net to score his fourth goal of the season, 1-0. 

Shortly after the restart Phoenix Patterson hit an effort on goal which was beaten away by Kelleher, before Hinds squared the ball for Markanday inside the Liverpool penalty area however, his first time effort was also well saved by Kelleher. Neco Williams then whipped a teasing cross across the face of Josh Oluwayemi’s goal before Malachi Fagan-Walcott cleared away Pedro Chirivella’s free kick, Luis Binks then cleared away the same players corner kick. Fagan-Walcott then made a good sliding challenge on Luis Longstaff inside the Tottenham penalty area. Oluwayemi gathered Tony Gallagher’s cross before Tom Hill managed to latch onto Neco Williams’ cross inside the Spurs box. Hill’s volleyed effort on goal was well saved by the flying Oluwayemi from close range to keep Spurs’ lead intact. Oluwayemi then managed to gather a cross from Tony Gallagher before Tariq Hinds cleared away Pedro Chirivella’s corner kick. Referee Scott Jackson then sounded his whistle for half time. Liverpool got the game back underway however, it was Spurs who started the second half the better of the two teams.

Malachi Fagan-Walcott managed to block Luis Longstaff’s shot inside the Tottenham penalty area before Spurs doubled their advantage over the ‘ Reds ‘. Oakley-Boothe passed the ball to Markanday who gave the ball to Richards who slipped Armando Shashoua through on goal. Shashoua had only Kelleher to beat however, he put the ball narrowly wide of his left hand post, but it wasn’t to matter as the referee had pointed to the penalty spot. Shashoua had been caught from behind by Morgan Boyes who was shown a straight red card. Up stepped Spurs captain Jamie Bowden who slotted the ball straight down the middle of Kelleher’s goal to make it 2-0 to Spurs. Shortly after the restart Phoenix Patterson had a shot on goal blocked by Tom Clayton, before Spurs won their second penalty kick of the game. After Dilan Markanday received Tariq Hinds’ pass the Spurs winger darted forward down the right wing past Tony Gallagher before entering the Liverpool box where he was brought down unlawfully by Gallagher. Bowden stepped up before calmly slotting the ball into the left hand corner of Caoimhin Kelleher’s goal, 3-0. 

Spurs were just knocking the ball about as they looked to consolidate on their three goal lead. After receiving Tashan Oakley-Boothe’s pass Dilan Markanday had a shot blocked by Pedro Chirivella. Kelleher managed to gather Phoenix Patterson’s pass towards Markanday inside the Liverpool box before Liverpool substitute Jack Bearne had a shot/cross gathered by Oluwayemi. Then in the 72nd minute of the game Malachi Fagan-Walcott was shown a harsh (he wasn’t the last man) straight red card for stopping Luis Longstaff on the counter attack. Luis Binks cleared a free kick from Pedro Chirivella before another Chirivella free kick a couple of minutes later was headed wide of Oluwayemi’s goal by Luis Longstaff. As Spurs looked to strengthen at the back Armando Shashoua was sacrificed for Brooklyn Lyons-Foster who came on at right back. Liverpool had a penalty shout waived away after Oluwayemi gathered the ball from under the feet of Luis Longstaff inside the Spurs box. J’Neil Bennett then came onto replace Phoenix Patterson before TJ Eyoma conceded a free kick right on the edge of the Spurs box. However, Herbie Kane curled his resulting effort over Josh Oluwayemi’s crossbar.

A good Spurs attack saw Lyons-Foster play a one two with Markanday down the right flank before forcing an excellent diving save from Kelleher to prevent his powerful effort from inside the Liverpool box. Tony Gallagher fired a deflected effort wide of Oluwayemi’s goal from long range, before Neco Williams blasted an effort over from out on the right flank. Harvey White came on for Rodel Richards before Spurs netted their fourth and final goal of the game. Oakley-Boothe’s lofted pass was headed towards goal by J’Neil Bennett but Kelleher made a good diving save. However, Dilan Markanday managed to recover the ball down the right hand side of the Liverpool box. Markanday crossed it into Bowden who had made a good run into the box. The Ireland under 19 international steadied himself before heading the ball in off Kelleher’s right hand post, 4-0. The referee sounded his whistle for full time a couple of moments later as Spurs secured back to back victories in the PL2 for only the second time this season. Spurs moved up to fifth in the league table after today’s victory, there next game is next Sunday when they travel to Lancashire to face Manchester City.

Player reviews:

• Josh Oluwayemi: The Spurs goalkeeper dealt well with crosses and set pieces today and his distribution was also good. Oluwayemi made one really important save in the first half to deny Tom Hill’s volley from close range.
• TJ Eyoma: The 19 year old performed ever so solidly at right back this afternoon before filling in at RCB for the dismissed Malachi Fagan-Walcott. Eyoma kept impeccable positioning throughout the game.
• Malachi Fagan-Walcott: Despite being harshly sent off this was another very good performance from the second year scholar. Fagan-Walcott made some good tackles and interceptions, and he was decent in the air. He will however, miss the next three u18 and u23 games.
• Luis Binks: The LCB was once again commanding in the air, kept good positioning and his distribution was good. Binks also made some important standing tackles and interceptions.
• Tariq Hinds: The fullback stayed deep and defended his side of the pitch well.
• Tashan Oakley-Boothe: There was plenty of attacking flair about the midfielders performance today. Oakley-Boothe carried the ball well and he went on some good surging forward runs through the middle of the park. The midfielders passing was also good on the day.
• Jamie Bowden: My man of the match, see below.
• Dilan Markanday: The right winger chipped in with two assists and he tested Liverpool fullback Tony Gallagher throughout the game, by going on a series of good darting forward runs.
• Armando Shashoua: The CAM used the ball intelligently when he was on it, although he didn’t see as much of it as he did during the Everton game. Shashoua also chipped in with an assist after winning our first penalty of the game.
• Phoenix Patterson: The left winger was particularly potent during the first half in which he came close to scoring in. Patterson had a tendency to cut inside rather than weave his way past Neco Williams however, this was a good performance overall from the 19 year old.
• Rodel Richards: The centre forwards movement was very good and he timed his runs well. Richards took his goal well and he showed good composure in front of goal. 
• Brooklyn Lyons-Foster: The 19 year old came on and operated at right back for the last 15 minutes of the game. Lyons-Foster helped to stabilise the defence and I can’t remember Liverpool winger Tom Hill getting past him during his time on the pitch. The Islington born defender also came close to getting in on the goals after some good link up play with Dilan Markanday down the right flank.
• J’Neil Bennett: The late substitute went on some testing runs down the left flank which troubled Liverpool fullback Neco Williams during his time on the pitch. 
• Harvey White: The 18 year old midfielder made some nice simple passes during his short time on the pitch.

My man of the match: Hat-trick hero and Spurs captain Jamie Bowden was the best player on the park this afternoon. The defensive midfielder did a good job at keeping things nice and simple in the middle of the park however, he would go onto make a string of ambitious forward passes as the game progressed. Bowden’s vision for a pass was good, as was his positioning and this helped to protect the back four. The skilful Irishman took both of his penalties well before getting himself into the Liverpool box to head home his third goal of the game. This was a very solid performance from the 18 year old who managed to combine the defensive side of his game with the attacking side of his game so very well. 

Spurs: Oluwayemi, Eyoma, Hinds, Binks, Fagan-Walcott, Bowden (c), Oakley-Boothe, Markanday, Patterson (Bennett 80), Shashoua (Lyons-Foster 75), Richards (White 87). Substitutes (not used): De Bie, Okedina.

Liverpool: Kelleher, Williams, Gallacher, Clayton, Boyes, Chirivella (c), Elliott (Bearne 16 (Norris 73)), Kane (Dixon-Bonner 86), Longstaff, Christie-Davies, Hill. Substitutes (not used): Atherton, Varesanovic.

Goals: Spurs – Richards 20, Bowden 55 (pen), 60 (pen), 90+4.

Yellow cards: Liverpool – Christie-Davies 47, Chirivella 59, Clayton 90.

Red cards: Spurs – Fagan-Walcott 72; Liverpool – Boyes 54.

Referee: Scott Jackson.

Venue: Hotspur Way.

Spurs under 23’s statistics: 

Goals: Armando Shashoua – 5

Harvey White – 3

Rodel Richards – 3

Jamie Bowden – 3

Troy Parrott – 2

Kazaiah Sterling – 2

Tashan Oakley-Boothe – 2

Dilan Markanday – 2

Shilow Tracey – 1

Paris Maghoma – 1

Phoenix Patterson – 1

Assists: Shilow Tracey – 5

Tashan Oakley-Boothe – 3

Armando Shashoua – 3

Dilan Markanday – 3

Rodel Richards – 2

Tariq Hinds – 2

Jamie Bowden – 1

Paris Maghoma – 1

Kazaiah Sterling – 1

TJ Eyoma – 1

Maurizio Pochettino – 1

Clean sheets: Brandon Austin – 1

Josh Oluwayemi – 1

Spurs under 18’s versus Reading: (match preview)

Fresh from their triumphs in the FA Youth Cup in midweek, our under 18’s return to league action on Saturday morning, when Matt Taylor’s side welcome Reading to Hotspur Way. It’s seventh place versus tenth place in the league on Saturday as Michael Donaldson and Mikel Leigterwood’s side come to Enfield. The ‘ Royals ‘ occupy tenth spot in the Premier League South table after picking up eight points from their opening ten league matches. From those ten matches Reading have scored 16 goals and conceded 21. Last season Spurs drew one and won one against Reading. Saturday’s game is the first competitive meeting between the two sides this season. Some of Reading’s attacking players to look out for include attacking midfielder and top scorer this season with six goals Claudio Osorio, midfielder Pedro Neves and forward Thierry Nevers. Other players to look out for are Oliver Pendlebury and Josh Hewitt.

This will be a tough game for Spurs despite Reading’s recent form however, Spurs will be looking to carry the momentum of Monday nights huge win into Saturday’s league game. Under 18 regulars Chay Cooper and Rafferty Pedder were two players who came on, on Monday when the scores were level, and they helped to change the game. The skilful Cooper netted our decisive fourth goal while attacking midfielder Pedder injected energy into the game. Both will be hoping to start against Reading. Another positive from Monday nights game was the return from injury of striker Enock Asante who could well start for Spurs on Saturday. As always I am looking forward to reporting on this game before dashing off to the Lane to watch the senior team.

My predicted lineup: (4-2-3-1) Kurylowicz, Lusala, Muir, Skinner, Cirkin (c), Cesay, Robson, Whittaker, Pedder, Cooper, Asante.

Subs from: Lo-Tutala, Kyezu, Mundle, Carrington, Etete. 

Injured/unavailable: Michael Craig, Dane Scarlett.

Doubtful: Matthew Craig, Nile John. 

Previous meeting: Spurs 2-0.

My score prediction: Spurs 4-2.

My one to watch: The ‘ Royals ‘ Claudio Osorio (attacking midfielder) is a player in good form so far this season. Osorio has netted six goals for Reading’s under 18’s so far this campaign and he will be one to look out for on Saturday morning.

Spurs under 23’s versus Liverpool: (match preview)

Our under 23’s take on Liverpool on Friday afternoon at Hotspur Way, in the PL2. It’s seventh place versus fifth place in the league as Wayne Burnett’s side try to do the double over a Liverpool side who they beat 4-0 earlier on in the season. This will however, be a very tough task for Spurs as the ‘ Reds ‘ have only lost two games since losing to Spurs way back in August. Liverpool who are managed by Neil Critchley boast a wealth of attacking talent, of which includes attacking midfielder Curtis Jones (Jones has scored seven league goals so far this season), skilful 16 year old winger Harvey Elliott, Dutch defender Sepp Van Den Berg and experienced Spanish central midfielder Pedro Chirivella (22). Critchley’s side could also have talents such as Rhian Brewster and Elijah Dixon-Bonner available for Friday’s game. There is no doubting that this will be a very difficult game for Burnett’s young side. 

What could make this game even more difficult for Spurs is the fact that a couple of our under 23 regulars played in our under 18’s FA Youth Cup tie on Monday night, (Luis Binks, Malachi Fagan-Walcott and Harvey White) so they  might be rested for Friday’s game. Also our under 19’s have an important UEFA Youth League game against Bayern Munich on Wednesday so some players may also be rested on Friday. However, the key for Spurs will be stopping Liverpool’s attacking players expressing themselves. I am looking forward to reporting on this game and as always I would like to wish the lads all the very best of luck.

My predicted lineup: (4-2-3-1) De Bie, Okedina, Eyoma, Lyons-Foster, Hinds, Oakley-Boothe, Bowden (c), Markanday, Shashoua, Tracey, Richards.

Subs from: Oluwayemi, Dinzeyi, Thorpe, Pochettino, Patterson.

Injured/unavailable: N/A.

Doubtful: Jeremie Mukendi.

Previous meeting: Spurs 4-0. 

My score prediction: Spurs 3-2.

My one to watch: The ‘ Reds ‘ 16 year old left winger Harvey Elliott. The England under 17 international who already has experience playing with Liverpool’s senior team, is a player with huge potential. Elliott is a highly skilful winger who has been a regular for Liverpool’s development side this season. Furthermore, the Spurs defence will have to be wary of the first year scholar as the former Fulham man could cause major problems for Wayne Burnett’s side down our right hand side with his skill and pace.

Spurs under 18’s 4-2 Liverpool: (match report)

(This photograph is from Tottenham Hotspur FC).

Our under 18’s took on Liverpool at the Lamex stadium in Stevenage on Monday night, in the third round of this seasons FA youth cup. Matt Taylor’s side put in a great team performance to knock the holders of the competition out by beating them 4-2 on a bitterly cold night in Hertfordshire. Matt Taylor picked a strong side for this important clash as Troy Parrott, Harvey White and Luis Binks were all included in the starting 11. Spurs opened the scoring through Troy Parrott who after being brought down by Liverpool goalkeeper Harvey Davies, he clinically slotted home from the resulting penalty kick. Parrott doubled our advantage once again from the penalty spot before Liverpool pulled a goal back before half time. Liverpool started the second half the better of the two teams and they soon levelled the scores. However, finely taken late goals from Max Robson and Chay Cooper secured the win for Spurs who will face either Wigan Athletic or Croydon in the next round.

Spurs lined up in their usual 4-2-3-1 formation on Monday night as Thimothee Lo-Tutala started in goal. A back four consisting of Dermi Lusala, Malachi Fagan-Walcott, Luis Binks and Dennis Cirkin lined up in front of him. Harvey White and Kallum Cesay anchored the midfield while Tarrelle Whittaker and J’Neil Bennett operated out on the flanks, either side of CAM Max Robson. Captain and centre forward Troy Parrott started up top for the young Lilywhites. Liverpool got the game underway at the Lamex Stadium in front of a big crowd (of which included members of our development side who had come along to support the under 18’s). The first chance of the game came Liverpool’s way, after Tottenham goalkeeper Thimothee Lo-Tutala was robbed of the ball by Liverpool captain Fidel O’Rourke inside the Spurs box. O’Rourke passed the ball to Jake Cain who curled an effort narrowly wide of the Spurs goal. Troy Parrott cleared Jake Cain’s free kick a couple of minutes later before O’Rourke shot over Lo-Tutala’s crossbar.

After latching onto Luis Binks’ long forward pass, Troy Parrott managed to hold off Liverpool’s Remi Savage before advancing into the Liverpool box where his eventual shot was blocked by Savage. After the lively Tarrelle Whittaker played a quick one two with Parrott in the Liverpool box, Whittaker passed the ball to Dennis Cirkin whose deflected drive went over the crossbar. Harvey White’s resulting corner kick was headed over by Malachi Fagan-Walcott. A couple of minutes later Max Robson passed the ball to Tarrelle Whittaker who cut inside from the right flank, into the Liverpool box before having a shot on goal blocked by Remi Savage. J’Neil Bennett then had a goal ruled out for offside. Spurs continued to play well and after Fagan-Walcott passed the ball to Bennett down the left flank, the Spurs winger squared the ball for Max Robson whose first time effort on goal was saved by Harvey Davies. Kallum Cesay then fired an effort over from distance before Liverpool broke forward down the opposite end of the pitch. Owen Beck gave the ball to Jake Cain whose cross was missed by Lo-Tutala before bouncing off the head of Luis Binks, before being gathered by the Spurs goalkeeper.

After latching onto Fagan-Walcott’s clearance on the edge of the Spurs box Tom Hill had a low shot saved by Lo-Tutala. Troy Parrott then cleared Leighton Clarkson’s cross before Lo-Tutala gathered Conor Bradley’s resulting cross as Liverpool enjoyed a good spell in the game. A good move from Liverpool saw Jake Cain pass the ball to James Norris who passed the ball to Tom Hill, whose shot was saved by Lo-Tutala. Malachi Fagan-Walcott cleared Jake Cain’s cross before Spurs won a penalty kick. After Tarrelle Whittaker’s through ball was latched onto by the racing Troy Parrott down the right hand side of the Liverpool box, Liverpool goalkeeper Harvey Davies came out to meet it but he caught Parrott who went flying to the ground. This left referee Daniel Simpson with no other option than to point to the spot. Parrott stood up to clinically slot the ball into the bottom right hand corner of Harvey Davies’ goal, 1-0. Shortly after the restart Harvey White’s corner kick was glanced just wide of the Liverpool goal by Troy Parrott. A good move from Spurs ended in Whittaker passing the ball to Parrott on the right flank and he whipped a dangerous ball across the face of Harvey Davies’ goal.

After latching onto Max Robson’s pass inside the Liverpool box Parrott was barged to the ground by the outrushing Harvey Davies, resulting in another penalty for Spurs. Parrott stood up before firing the ball into the roof of Harvey Davies’ net, 2-0. Max Robson blocked behind Leighton Clarkson’s shot before Liverpool had a penalty shout waived away after Malachi Fagan-Walcott and Luis Binks sandwiched Layton Stewart inside the Spurs box. Kallum Cesay was shown a yellow card before Liverpool pulled a goal back right on the stroke of halftime through Conor Bradley. After O’Rourke passed the ball to Norris he passed the ball to Bradley down the left side of the Spurs box, and he fired the ball into the right hand corner of the goal, 2-1. Shortly after the restart Parrott passed the ball to Bennett who had a shot blocked by Ki Jana-Hoever. A couple of moments later and after receiving Fagan-Walcott’s pass, J’Neil Bennett whipped the ball into the Liverpool box where his cross was met by Max Robson who headed the ball narrowly wide of the goal. The referee sounded his whistle for half time a couple of seconds later. 

Spurs restarted the game however, it was Liverpool who managed to create the first chance of the half. After Owen Beck passed the ball to James Norris he crossed the ball into the Spurs box where he managed to pick out Tom Hill whose header was saved by Lo-Tutala, before being cleared away by J’Neil Bennett. Spurs then broke forward down the opposite end of the pitch through Dennis Cirkin who passed the ball to Bennett who in turn gave it to Parrott whose shot on goal was blocked by Ki Jana-Hoever. After knocking the ball around the park well Liverpool netted an equaliser in the 63rd minute of the game through Layton Stewart. After receiving Tom Hill’s pass Stewart cut inside from the left flank before firing the ball into the bottom right hand corner of Lo-Tutala’s goal, 2-2. Malachi Fagan-Walcott cleared away Tom Hill’s corner kick before Matt Taylor made a double substitution, bringing off Kallum Cesay and Tarrelle Whittaker for Rafferty Pedder and Chay Cooper. After going on an excellent forward run from left back, Dennis Cirkin jinked past Leighton Clarkson before having a powerful effort on goal parried by Harvey Davies. Chay Cooper then fired the ball over the crossbar. 

After Max Robson conceded a free kick on the edge of the Spurs box, Dennis Cirkin blocked Jake Cain’s effort on goal. Then in the 76th minute of the game Spurs regained the lead through Max Robson. After Harvey White had passed the ball to J’Neil Bennett on the left flank, the Spurs winger floated a cross into Max Robson at Harvey Davies’ near post. Robson popped up, attacked the ball and headed it past Harvey Davies to spark jubilant scenes of celebration, 3-2. Less than a minute later Spurs stunned the ‘ Reds ‘ by making it 4-2. After receiving Rafferty Pedder’s pass, Chay Cooper sprinted forward, he knocked the ball past Leighton Clarkson before running past two more Liverpool players and entering the ‘ Reds ‘ box. When there Cooper kept his composure before calmly slotting the ball into the bottom left hand corner of the goal, 4-2. Shortly after the restart Dermi Lusala was shown a yellow card for taking too long to take a throw in before Enock Asante came onto replace Max Robson. Luis Binks and J’Neil Bennett were both shown yellow cards for kicking the ball away before James Balagizi saw his deflected effort on goal go just wide of Lo-Tutala’s goal. After receiving the ball with his back to goal Tyler Morton turned and shot however, his effort was superbly blocked by the superb sliding Fagan-Walcott on the line. 

After Troy Parrott had kicked the ball at Tom Hill there was a brief coming together between both sets of players. After Asante had passed the ball fo Cooper the skilful winger had a late effort saved by Harvey Davies before the referee brought a thrilling game to an end.

Player reviews:

• Thimothee Lo-Tutala: The Tottenham goalkeeper made three solid saves on the night and he dealt well with crosses and set pieces. Furthermore, Lo-Tutala’s distribution was good.
• Dermi Lusala: The right back had a good game and he was good on the ball. Furthermore, the 16 year old stayed deep and defended well.
• Malachi Fagan-Walcott: The 17 year old performed very well at RCB and he made some important defensive interventions. Fagan-Walcott was good in the air and in the challenge, and he made a superb sliding block to prevent a certain goal for Tyler Morton during the latter stages of the game.
• Luis Binks: Like Fagan-Walcott the LCB did ever so well for the team last night. Binks was superb in the air, he read the game well and he kept good positioning. Binks and Fagan-Walcott worked very well together.
• Dennis Cirkin: The left back had a strong first half in which he defended well in. However, it was during the second half that he really impressed. Cirkin went on some excellent forward runs and he tested Liverpool right back Conor Bradley. Cirkin defended ever so solidly on the night. 
• Harvey White: The CDM performed well on the night, he was good on the ball and he protected the defence well.
• Kallum Cesay: The central midfielder protected the defence well and he moved the ball about well in the middle of the park. 
• Tarrelle Whittaker: The right winger was lively and he caused a lot of problems for Liverpool’s left back Owen Beck during the first half. Whittaker’s movement and pace was a thorn in Liverpool’s side, and the 17 year olds passing was also good on the day. 
• Max Robson: The CAM moved around the park well and he also did a good job at linking play and brining others into the game. Robson’s movement and anticipation for his late goal was very good indeed.
• J’Neil Bennett: The left winger performed well against Liverpool’s Conor Bradley and he also set up Max Robson’s goal.
• Troy Parrott: My man of the match, see below.
• Rafferty Pedder: The second half substitute helped to change the game along with Chay Cooper, with his energy and aggressive pressing. 
• Chay Cooper: The scorer of an excellently taken late goal, right winger Chay Cooper performed excellently during his 20 minutes on the pitch. Apart taking his goal with great skill, Cooper’s aggressiveness and the timing of his runs helped to break down Liverpool late on in the game.
• Enock Asante: N/A.

My man of the match: Troy Parrott. The Spurs captain led the line with distinction on Monday night against a strong Liverpool defence. Parrott’s movement and his speed was top class however, the Irishman’s physical presence also caused a lot of problems for the two Liverpool centre halves. Parrott also won both of his penalties of which he took ever so well indeed. This was a very good performance from the 17 year old who helped to make a big difference on the night. He and the rest of the Spurs lads should be very proud of their performances.

Spurs: Lo-Tutala, Lusala, Cirkin, White, Fagan-Walcott, Binks, Whittaker (Cooper 70), Cesay (Pedder 70), Parrott (c), Robson (Asante 86), Bennett. Substitutes (not used): Kurylowicz, Muir, Mundle, Santiago.

Liverpool: Davies, Bradley, Beck, Hoever, Savage, Clarkson (Morton 83), Hill, Cain, Stewart (Balagizi 80), O’Rourke (c) (Bearne 66), Norris.

Goals: Spurs – Parrott 17 (pen), 31 (pen), Robson 76, Cooper 77; Liverpool – Bradley 44, Stewart 63.

Yellow cards: Spurs – Cesay 40, Lusala 85, Binks 87, Bennett 89, Parrott 90+5; 

Liverpool – Cain 41, Clarkson 69, Hill 90+5.

Referee: Daniel Simpson.

Venue: Lamex Stadium, Stevenage.

Attendance: 865.

Spurs under 18’s statistics 2019/20:

Goals: 

Tarrelle Whittaker – 6

Chay Cooper – 4

Max Robson – 4

Enock Asante – 3

Kion Etete –  3

Kallum Cesay – 2

Rafferty Pedder – 2

J’Neil Bennett – 2

Troy Parrott – 2

Dane Scarlett – 1

Harvey White – 1

Assists

Chay Cooper – 4

Max Robson – 3

Tarrelle Whittaker – 3

Dermi Lusala –  3

Kion Etete – 2

Romaine Mundle – 2

Troy Parrott – 2

Luis Binks – 1

Michael Craig – 1

Eddie Carrington – 1

Kallum Cesay – 1

Marqes Muir –  1

Enock Asante – 1

Rafferty Pedder – 1

Yago Santiago – 1

Dennis Cirkin – 1

Harvey White – 1

J’Neil Bennett – 1

Clean sheets: 

Kacper Kurylowicz – 2

Josh Oluwayemi – 1