Some notes on Spurs under 18’s 6-1 win over Southampton: 

Our under 18’s welcomed Southampton to Hotspur Way on Saturday morning for a league game (it was impossible to take notes in today’s weather). Matt Taylor’s Spurs side put in a very good dominant performance against the ‘ Saints ’ in difficult conditions to record an impressive 6-1 win. Spurs played some really good attacking football right from the offing on Saturday against a Southampton side who were struggling a little bit for form. It was an action packed game which even saw the players being brought off the pitch owing to a hailstorm storm during the second half. The scorers for Spurs on the day were J’Neil Bennett, Yago Santiago, Kion Etete x2, Nile John and Chay Cooper. Spurs lined up in a 4-2-3-1 formation as Kacper Kurylowicz started in goal. A back four consisting of Dermi Lusala, Marqes Muir, Aaron Skinner and schoolboy Jordan Hackett lined up in front of him. Meanwhile Nile John and Matthew Craig anchored the midfield while Romaine Mundle and J’Neil Bennett operated out on the flanks either side of CAM Yago Santiago. Captain and centre forward Kion Etete led the line for Spurs. Spurs got the game underway on a bitterly cold morning in Enfield. Spurs goalkeeper Kacper Kurylowicz had to make an important early save to tip over Jack Turner’s powerful header after he latched onto Mario Rus’ corner kick.

On 16 minutes and after knocking the ball around the park well Spurs took the lead through J’Neil Bennett. After Matthew Craig passed the ball to Bennett the fast winger darted forward through the middle of the park before then doing a couple of step overs and rifling the ball into left corner of Oliver Wright’s goal from over 25 yards out, 1-0. Around seven minutes later Spurs doubled their lead through Yago Santiago. After latching onto Oliver Wright’s pass Santiago showed his composure on the edge of the Southampton box before curling the ball into the bottom right hand corner of the goal, 2-0. Spurs continued to dominate the game, Nile John fired an effort wide from distance before J’Neil Bennett, Romaine Mundle and Matthew Craig all shot wide narrowly wide of the Southampton goal in quick succession. The ‘ Saints ’ has a brilliant opportunity to pull a goal back after Jack Turner was slipped through on goal down the right by Mario Rus. Turner advanced into the Spurs box where he was met by Kurylowicz who did really well to save his resulting shot. Spurs found a third goal shortly before the break after Matthew Craig slipped through Nile John down the left side of the Southampton box and he crossed the ball for Kion Etete who volleyed the ball past Wright from close range, 3-0. Southampton got the game back underway. 

After receiving Matthew Craig’s pass Nile John picked the ball up some 25 yards out from the Southampton goal before rifling the ball into the bottom left hand corner of the goal, 4-0. Then a bad hailstorm brought the game to a halt for 13 minutes as the referee brought the players off the pitch. After the game was restarted Southampton managed to pull a goal back. After Marco Rus passed the ball to Belgian Lucas Defise he fired the ball past Kurylowicz and into the top right hand corner of the goal from the edge of the Spurs box. Spurs tried to respond and after receiving Nile John’s pass, Rafferty Pedder forced Wright into action before Etete fired the ball over the crossbar. After latching onto Romaine Mundle’s low cross from the right flank Etete was pushed to the floor from behind by Caleb Watts resulting in the referee pointing to the spot. Chay Cooper who had only recently replaced the injured J’Neil Bennett stood up before slotting the ball into the bottom left hand corner of the goal. After going on a good and skilful surging run Cooper had a fine effort on goal saved by Wright before Etete tapped home Chay Cooper’s low cross a couple of minutes later to net goal number six of the game for Spurs. The referee sounded his whistle for full time a couple of minutes later to bring a dominant Spurs performance to an end.

Player reviews:

• Kacper Kurylowicz: The Tottenham goalkeeper made two crucial saves during the early parts of the first half. Kurylowicz also dealt really well with crosses and set pieces and he was very vocal throughout the match.
• Dermi Lusala: Defensively solid, Lusala rarely allowed Southampton winger Kazeem Olaigbe to enjoy much luck down his side of the pitch.
• Marqes Muir: It was another solid performance from the RCB who defended well at all times. Muir was also good in the air.
• Aaron Skinner: The LCB defended tightly and he asserted himself well on the game. Furthermore, Skinner was also good at bringing the ball out from the back.
• Jordan Hackett: The schoolboy who operated at left back went on some good attacking forward runs and he also got back to defend well. 
• Matthew Craig: The CDM won a lot of challenges in the middle of the park and he used the ball intelligently. Craig was involved in two of our goals  today.
• Nile John: The CM had a very good game today as he chipped in with a goal and an assist. John patrolled the midfield well and his work rate was second to none. John was good on the ball and he used it well.
• Romaine Mundle: The right winger rarely lost the ball and he went on some good forward runs.
• Yago Santiago: The 16 year old Spanish attacking midfielder had arguably his best competitive game for under 18’s on Saturday. Santiago linked the play well, showed good skill and composure and he took his first half goal well. 
• J’Neil Bennett: The fast left winger went on some excellent surging runs down the left flank and he took his first half goal really well. Bennett also tracked back well after himself.
• Kion Etete: My man of the match, see below.
• Chay Cooper: The second half substitute returned from injury to make an instant impact for Matt Taylor’s side. Cooper used the ball really well and he looked very sharp. Showing great skill on occasions, Cooper chipped in with a goal and an assist.
• Rafferty Pedder: The CAM came off the bench to make a good impression against Southampton. Pedder was nice and tricky, and he was involved in the build up play to Kion Etete’s second goal of the game.
• Max Robson: The late substitute linked up well with striker Kion Etete and he also pressed well during his short time on the pitch.

My man of the match: Kion Etete. A relentless presser who worked really hard for Spurs all game despite things not always coming off for him. Striker Kion Etete battled for the ball well and he also took both of his goals with good confidence. Etete’s off the ball movement was good and he did well to also win a penalty during the second half.

Spurs: Kurylowicz, Lusala, Hackett, Matthew Craig, Skinner, Muir, Mundle, John (Robson 76), Etete (c), Santiago (Pedder 64), Bennett (Cooper 59). Substitute (not used): Lo-Tutala.

Spurs under 18’s statistics 2019/20:

Goals: 

Kion Etete –  8

Tarrelle Whittaker – 7

J’Neil Bennett – 7

Max Robson – 5

Chay Cooper – 5

Enock Asante – 3

Harvey White – 3

Kallum Cesay – 2

Rafferty Pedder – 2

Troy Parrott – 2

Dennis Cirkin – 2

Nile John – 2

Dane Scarlett – 1

Romaine Mundle – 1

Yago Santiago – 1

Assists:

Max Robson – 6

Chay Cooper – 6

J’Neil Bennett – 5

Kion Etete – 4

Tarrelle Whittaker – 3

Dermi Lusala –  3

Romaine Mundle – 3

Troy Parrott – 2

Rafferty Pedder – 2

Dennis Cirkin – 2

Harvey White – 2

Enock Asante – 2

Eddie Carrington – 2

Matthew Craig – 2

Luis Binks – 1

Michael Craig – 1

Kallum Cesay – 1

Marqes Muir –  1

Yago Santiago – 1

Jordan Hackett – 1

Aaron Skinner – 1

Nile John – 1

Clean sheets: 

Kacper Kurylowicz – 4

Josh Oluwayemi – 1

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

After suffering a 3-1 defeat to London rivals West Ham United the previous Saturday, Matt Taylor’s Tottenham Hotspur under 18 side will be looking to bounce back when they take on Southampton at Hotspur Way tomorrow morning. Paul Hardyman’s Southampton side sit in eighth place in the Premier League South table, after picking up 16 points from 16 games. Forward Jack Turner is one of the ‘ Saints ’ most potent attacking players and he has scored eight league goals so far this season. Other Southampton players to look out for tomorrow include Sam Bellis and Roland Idowu. Spurs beat Southampton 2-0 in the reverse fixture back in August.

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

Subs from: Lo Tutala, Cassanova, Matthew Craig, Santiago, Cooper.

Injured/unavailable: Michael Craig. 

Doubtful: Enock Asante, Romaine Mundle, Dane Scarlett.

Previous meeting: Spurs 2-0. 

My score prediction: Spurs 2-1.

My one to watch: Southampton forward Jack Turner who is the ‘ Saints ’ under 18’s top scorer this season with eight goals.

Some notes on Spurs 18’s 3-1 defeat to West Ham United: (match report)

Matt Taylor’s Tottenham Hotspur under 18 side took on London rivals West Ham United in a league game at Little Heath on Saturday morning. This was a typical London derby with plenty of strong challenges however, it was also a close and for the most part end to end game of football. Spurs however, ended up losing 3-1 to the ‘ Hammers ’ after the home side took their chances during the second half. Spurs lined up in a 4-2-3-1 formation as Kacper Kurylowicz started in goal. A back four made up of Dermi Lusala, captain Malachi Fagan-Walcott, Marqes Muir and Dennis Cirkin lined up in front of him. Matthew Craig and Aaron Skinner anchored the midfield, while Nile John and J’Neil Bennett operated out on the flanks either side of CAM Max Robson. Kion Etete led the line for Spurs. The home side got the game underway on a blustery day in Romford. Early on in the game Spurs’ right winger Nile John dragged an effort wide from distance before centre half Malachi Fagan-Walcott nodded J’Neil Bennett’s cross wide of the West Ham goal. Shortly afterwards Spurs were awarded a penalty. Nile John’s nicely weighted pass set Max Robson racing through on goal in the West Ham penalty area however, the attacking midfield was brought down from behind by Josh Okotcha leaving the referee with no other choice then to point to the spot and show Okotcha a yellow card. Kion Etete confidently stood up to blast the ball into the bottom left hand corner of Krisztian Hegyi’s goal, 1-0.

Ademipo Ademipo responded for West Ham by firing an effort over Kurylowicz’s crossbar on the turn, before J’Neil Bennett went on a run down the left flank before cutting inside and firing an effort on goal. The ball bounced awkwardly in front of Hegyi who managed to gather it in time before the alert Max Robson could latch onto it. However, before halftime Spurs conceded a penalty after Matthew Craig brought down Daniel Chesters inside the Tottenham penalty area. Veron Parkes stood up before firing the ball down the middle of Kacper Kurylowicz’s goal, 1-1. Spurs tried to regain the lead before the break, Nile John had an effort from distance saved by Hegyi before Kacper Kurylowicz saved Peter Stroud’s effort which took a deflection off of Matthew Craig in what was the final piece of action of the half. Spurs got the game back underway however, West Ham started the half strongly. A good break forward from the home side ended in Veron Parkes whipping the ball into the Spurs box from the right flank. His cross managed to pick up Ademipo Ademipo at the back post and he fired the ball beyond Kurylowicz and into the centre of the goal, 1-2. Spurs tried hard to respond, Kion Etete cut inside from the left flank before firing an effort well over Hegyi’s crossbar. After Max Robson had won a free kick, J’Neil Bennett curled his resulting effort over the crossbar. A couple of minutes later and after a good spell of possession from Spurs, the young Lilywhites managed to come close to finding an equaliser.

Max Robson’s cross from the left flank was turned onto the post by West Ham defender Jamal Baptiste before Kion Etete collected the ball and passed it to Nile John, whose first time effort on goal was blocked by Baptiste. It was an even game of football which could have gone either way. Midfielder Matthew Craig received a yellow card for unlawfully preventing a West Ham attack and he was replaced by Tarrelle Whittaker. The lively Max Robson then managed to create another chance when he was able to find Kion Etete in the West Ham box however, Etete’s resulting shot was blocked Samuel Nsumbu. At the other end of the pitch, Daniel Chesters flashed an effort across the face of Kacper Kurylowicz’s goal before Yago Santiago came onto replace Max Robson in the CAM position. Shortly after coming on Santiago had an effort cleared off the line by Jake Giddings.  After receiving Tarrelle Whittaker’s pass in the West Ham box, J’Neil Bennett looked up before smashing the ball against Krisztian Hegyi’s crossbar. Rafferty Pedder then came onto replace Aaron Skinner. Left back Dennis Cirkin received a yellow card for making a strong challenge on Daniel Chesters before he fired an effort over from distance. In second half stoppage time and after latching onto the ball down the right flank Kamarai Sawyer surged forward into the Spurs penalty area before firing the ball into the top left hand corner of Kacper Kurylowicz’s goal to secure the win, 1-3. Nevertheless this was a good performance from Spurs but they just weren’t as clinical as West Ham on the day. Spurs’ next game is at home to Southampton next Saturday. 

Player reviews:

• Kacper Kurylowicz: The Spurs goalkeeper only had to make one save on the day and that was a comfortable deflected drive from Peter Stroud. Kurylowicz did however, lead by example and he couldn’t have done anything to prevent any of West Ham’s three goals. 
• Dermi Lusala: The skilful right back carried the ball well and he defended well during what was a closely fought and end to end game. Lusala made some good forward runs down the right flank.
• Malachi Fagan-Walcott: The Spurs captain was commanding and he spoke his teammates through the game well.
• Marqes Muir: The LCB had in my opinion a strong game, cutting out some dangerous West Ham attacks and chances. 
• Dennis Cirkin: The combative left back often stayed deep and he did a good solid job for Spurs. Cirkin made some strong challenges.
• Matthew Craig: The CM kept things ticking in the central areas of the pitch. 
• Aaron Skinner: The defensive midfielder made some really strong challenges and he patrolled the midfield well during his time on the pitch. 
• Nile John: Although Spurs focused their efforts more down the left flank, John did well when he got on the ball. The England under 17 international’s pass to set Max Robson racing through on goal was a good one.
• Max Robson: My man of the match, see below.
• J’Neil Bennett: The fast and tricky two footed left winger gave Sam Caiger a difficult time throughout periods of the game. Bennett was unpredictable and he made some good surging runs and he also hit the crossbar during the second half.
• Kion Etete: The tall and physical centre forward held the ball up excellently and he did a good job at bringing others into the game. Etete was unlucky not to score more than one goal today.
• Tarrelle Whittaker: The second half substitute injected energy into the game from out on the right flank.
• Yago Santiago: This was a lively cameo from the young Spanish midfielder who also came very close to finding the back of the net.
• Rafferty Pedder: The late substitute managed to get stuck in during his short time on the pitch.

My man of the match: Max Robson. The lively CAM was influential during today’s game creating some good chances, showing good skill and feet and also doing well to win our penalty. In addition Robson’s off the ball movement was very good and he was always ready to receive the ball and run at players and take them on. Robson has now been directly involved in 12 goals this season for Spurs at all levels.

Spurs under 18’s statistics 2019/20:

Goals: 

Tarrelle Whittaker – 7

J’Neil Bennett – 6

Kion Etete – 6

Max Robson – 5

Chay Cooper – 4

Enock Asante – 3

Harvey White – 3

Kallum Cesay – 2

Rafferty Pedder – 2

Troy Parrott – 2

Dennis Cirkin – 2

Dane Scarlett – 1

Romaine Mundle – 1

Nile John – 1

Assists:

Max Robson – 6

Chay Cooper – 5

J’Neil Bennett – 5

Tarrelle Whittaker – 3

Dermi Lusala –  3

Romaine Mundle – 3

Kion Etete – 3

Troy Parrott – 2

Rafferty Pedder – 2

Dennis Cirkin – 2

Harvey White – 2

Enock Asante – 2

Eddie Carrington – 2

Luis Binks – 1

Michael Craig – 1

Kallum Cesay – 1

Marqes Muir –  1

Yago Santiago – 1

Jordan Hackett – 1

Aaron Skinner – 1

Clean sheets: 

Kacper Kurylowicz – 4

Josh Oluwayemi – 1

Spurs under 18’s versus West Ham United: (match preview)

Our under 18’s take on high flying London rivals West Ham United on Saturday morning at Little Heath. It’s Matt Taylor’s side versus Kevin Keen’s side, who are firmly in the Premier League South title race. They sit in third place in the league table on 31 points from 15 games. This ‘ Hammers ’ side are a very talented one and they may well win the league this season. Forward Veron Parkes is one of West Ham’s main danger men with 12 goals this season, while Sebastian Nebyla and Mipo Obudeko have also chipped in with goals this term. This will be a very tough game for Spurs as West Ham have already beaten us twice this season already (in the league and in the Premier League Cup). They are also unbeaten at home in the league so far this season. As always I shall be reporting on tomorrow’s game and I would like to wish the lads all the very best of luck for it.

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

Subs from: Lo-Tutala, Hackett, Cassanova, Carrington, Asante.

Injured/unavailable: Michael Craig, Chay Cooper.

Doubtful: Max Robson, Enock Asante, Dane Scarlett, Romaine Mundle.

Previous meeting: Spurs 2-3.

My score prediction: 

My one to watch: West Ham forward and their top scorer this season with 12 goals Veron Parkes.

Farewell and good luck Luis Binks:

Young Tottenham Hotspur centre half, and in my opinion one of the Spurs academy’s brightest young talents, Luis Binks has officially left the Lilywhites to join MLS side The Montreal Impact on a permanent transfer. This is extremely sad news for followers of the Spurs academy set up, as the tall and imposing centre half had been progressing so well over the last couple of seasons at Spurs. The 18 year old who had been at Spurs since the age of six, had been one of our under 18’s and 23’s best and most influential players this season. The England under 19 international who can constantly be seen scanning the field of play looking to make a perfectly executed long diagonal pass is, as I put it in an in-depth article in which I wrote last season (in my opinion!) one of England’s most exciting young centre halves. Binks who is from Gillingham in County Kent but also eligible to represent Scotland at international level, is a young player who loves defending. A great reader of the game, but also somebody who is willing to put his body on the line for his team, the former pupil of The Howard School is in many ways the complete central defender. Binks would have first come onto the radar of followers of the Spurs Academy set up back in 2017 when he came off the bench to debut for our under 18’s in a league game against Aston Villa while still an under 15 player, has made great progress in the game since making his under 18 debut all those years ago. 

Binks who played for both Scotland under 17’s and England under 17’s in the run up to the 2018 U17 European Championships, signed scholarship terms with Spurs that summer. In his first season as a scholar the teenager cemented his place in Matt Wells’ under 18 side. And he became an integral member of the hugely talented Spurs team who came within a whisker of winning the Premier League South that season. Putting in some colossal performances at centre half for both the under 18’s and 23’s in the same season, Luis really did look the part. Elegant but decisive, along with our under 18’s captain fantastic Armando Shashoua, Binks was one of our under 18’s most important players. In the same season Binks also helped a Spurs under 17 side win the Euro Youth Cup in St Wendel, Germany. Binks also featured on a couple of occasions for our under 19’s in the UEFA Youth League, and he also featured in a string of games at the end of season Terborg tournament in the Netherlands, once again looking as consistent and effective as ever. In that season Binks put in excellent performances (almost always playing at LCB) against the likes of Arsenal, Manchester City, Crawley Town and Middlesbrough, and he never seemed to have a bad game in all of the games that I saw him play in that season, and to top it off he also chipped in with three goals.

The left sided centre half started the current campaign by impressing with our development side in a pre-season friendly against non league side Dulwich Hamlet. Binks would then star at the Tournoi Europeen out in France, where he put in a series of very Toby Alderweireld like performances. Binks started the competitive season off with our under 18’s but it didn’t take him long before he had been promoted to the development side. In total Binks made 20 appearances for both sides combined, plus an additional six for our under 19’s in the UEFA Youth league. A defender who performs well under pressure, Binks as I had alluded to earlier in this piece is in my eyes the real deal. Imperious in the air and extremely reliable on the ground. Binks excels at long and short range passing something which he must have worked on in training since he was a young boy. Furthermore, as a central defender, apart from being aesthetically pleasing, he is also a real leader and somebody who is able to galvanise his teammates and encourage them to make intelligent decisions. Binks as a defender possesses decent pace and as somebody who reads the game so well and anticipates danger, he rarely lunges in however, he isn’t afraid to get stuck in if he needs to. Brave and committed, but also a cultured central defender who keeps impeccable positioning on the pitch, Binks is also a highly decisive player who is strong on the ball and able to bring the ball out well from the back.

Writing this article makes me sad as not only was Binks one of my favourite ever Spurs defenders at youth level, (and yes that includes Japhet Tanganga!) but he was also the one out of all them (along with Brooklyn Lyons-Foster) where you couldn’t pin point a single weakness of his game. While some may criticise his pace Binks has worked on that a lot over the last year and he managed to significantly improve his speed and agility. The Montreal Impact who are managed by Thierry Henry have not only gained a classy young player who has a great attitude, but they have also gained a top young man who will prove in time to be one of their most valuable players. Binks has been a pleasure and a privilege to watch play for the various Spurs youth teams over the last few seasons and I and many other followers of the Spurs youth set up will be very sad to see a player who will more likely than not become a top class defender and leader go. I would like to take this opportunity to wish Luis all the very best of luck at his new club and I hope that he thoroughly enjoys this exciting new chapter in his career. Farewell and good luck young man! 

Looking back at the Spurs A team who won the Eastern Counties League during the 1960-61 season:

(This is the only photograph that I could find that had the most Spurs players together who played in that A team. Included in the photograph is David Sunshine, Barry Roffman, Terry Lloyd, Roy Moss and Roy Low. A big thanks must go to David Sunshine, Derek Tharme and Eddie Clayton for helping me to write this article.)

During the 1960-61 season, apart from our first team winning a historic league and cup double, our old A team also won the league, the Eastern Counties League. Made up predominantly of non league sides and reserve teams, the young Spurs boys had to adapt to the physicality of playing against grown men. The physicality and the toughness of the Eastern Counties League could make or break young players. This was the second season in a row that Spurs had won the Eastern Counties League, after winning it in 1960, they would also win it again the following season in 1961/62. However, during the 1960/61 season Spurs started the campaign against Cambridge City Reserves on Saturday the tenth of September 1960. Spurs won 4-0 thanks to goals from Norman Lee, Joe Fleming, Bert Wilkie and Ronnie Piper. After beating Cambridge the young Lilywhites would go onto win their next five league matches, before losing 3-0 to March Town United in early November. March Town United would be one of Spurs’ main competitors for the league that season. Spurs were consistent throughout the season and they thoroughly deserved to win the league. Recording some memorable victories along the way, such as their 9-0 win over Sudbury Town and another 9-0 win over Biggleswade Town. Spurs picked up 53 points from 32 matches (they won 25 of those games) and they also scored a phenomenal total of 114 goals and  conceded just 27. A side of which included future first team players Ronnie Piper and Roy Low contained important regulars such as goalkeeper Frank Smith and full back Derek Tharme. Prolific centre forward Colin Brown led the line with distinction while you had the likes of Norman Lee creating chances from midfield.

Then you had some of the younger members of the side such as Ronnie Piper, Barry Roffman, Roy Low and Terry Lloyd who all did well for the A team when called upon. This was a really talented Spurs side and many of the players had they have been playing in a different era, would have likely gone onto play for the Tottenham first team. After a long and tough season the Spurs players were presented with the Eastern Counties League trophy on the first of May 1961 at White Hart Lane, after their final league game of the season against March Town United (Spurs lost the game 2-1). It was a very successful time in Spurs’ history at all levels of the club, and in the following piece I am going to be looking back at the Spurs players who made up the A team side that season.

Some questions with former Spurs A team player David Sunshine:

Could you describe to me what it was like to play in the Eastern Counties league?

David: To be quite honest with you it was great because I broke into the Eastern Counties league when I was young and when I was still on the ground staff. Coming from junior football (the South East Counties League) to playing with men such as Derek Tharme and Frank Teece was great and I really loved it. That league sorted the men out from the boys, because a lot of them (young boys) only played a few games and then never played again. However, I thought that it was a good strong league and in a way it built confidence. Playing up at Eynesbury Rovers or March Town United (country boys) they were all out to get you with you being a Tottenham player because that was the highlight of their careers (they would also have there biggest crowd of the season) but I enjoyed it although it was a tough league. It brought out the best of players like Derek Tharme, Bert Wilkie and Frank Teece and including myself. Them players from the other teams would run around like chickens with no head, and we thought that we were fit! However, they were good and tough games, and it was a good league for the up and coming players.

What was the most difficult thing about playing in the league?

David: I didn’t find anything difficult about it I just enjoyed it and that’s the honest truth. I had better games in the Eastern Counties League then I did in the South East Counties League because I was playing with men in the A team.  

What are your memories of that season?

David: Well of the 1960/61 season the thing I remember about that was spending two lovely evenings at the Savoy hotel when Tottenham did the double! You had Johnny Wallis keeping an eye on you in case you had a drink as we were underage. I used to take football as it came and that included the Eastern Counties League because I didn’t win a lot of trophies in my career however, I’d have still enjoyed that league just as much if we’d have been struggling because that was my attitude towards the game.

What was it like to win the league and be presented with the trophy at White Hart Lane?

David: It was great but I still took it as it came. After winning the league we had a buffet in the directors boardroom at White Hart Lane and I was even allowed a few beers. However, as I say we won it but I would have been just as pleased or happy if we had have been battling relegation.

Who were the toughest opponents that you came up against that season?

David: One of the toughest we came up against that season was March Town United and I tell you what they were big boys and they wouldn’t have looked out of place at Twickenham. They were a really tough side who loved to pump the ball up the field. Another good side in that league was Cambridge City Reserves and they were a good team but there were also lots of good sides in that division because it was a strong league. I loved it!

Do you remember much about that game against March Town United at White Hart Lane (the final game of the season)?

David: I remember it was at the end of the season and in them days Tottenham’s pitch was atrocious and nothing like it is today. It was a good game but not a great game as the ground was rock hard and uneven however, I can’t remember much more than that about it.

The team:

Frank Smith: The Colchester born goalkeeper was by all accounts a very talented one who was unlucky not to make the grade at Spurs. The big goalkeeper who joined Spurs from Colchester Casuals is still fondly remembered by by his former A team teammates. Tall, slim, strong and very good in the air, Frank Smith was trusted by his defenders. The goalkeeper made 28 appearances for the A team that season and he also featured on one occasion for the reserves in the football combination league. After leaving Spurs in 1962, Smith joined QPR before later playing for Wimbledon who he made over 150 appearances for. Upon retiring from the game Smith went into the banking business, now retired he lives in County Surrey.

Brian Lumley: Hailing from County Hertfordshire, goalkeeper Brian Lumley made four appearances for the Spurs A team during the 1960/61 season (Lumley used to play for Hertfordshire boys). Lumley has been described by former Spurs A team teammate David Sunshine as quite a shy man. It is unknown where Lumley went after leaving Spurs.

Derek Tharme: An A team stalwart, Brighton born fullback Derek Tharme played 26 times for the Spurs A team during the 1960/61 season. Tharme was a very intelligent player, who was strong and pretty fast, was also as a good all round left back. Formerly on Brighton & Hove Albion’s books Tharme would join Spurs in 1956 and upon his arrival he lived in digs in Ponders End with Spurs great Mel Hopkins. Tharme was a very important player for the Spurs A team during the 1960/61 season and his presence and experience helped out the younger members of the side. After leaving Spurs in the early 1960’s Tharme would later play for the likes of Southend United, Whitehawk and Hastings United. Now retired, Derek lives back on the south coast. I have been privileged enough to have got to know him over the last two years. 

David Sunshine: A tenacious and tough tackling fullback, the aggressive David Sunshine (nicknamed ‘ Monty ’) was a player with good pace who opponents wouldn’t dare mess with. A good both footed player, Sunshine was born in Bethnal Green, London and brought up in Walthamstow. David wasn’t the tallest of fullbacks but he had a good leap and he was good in the air and he provided good cover for the A side. Making 11 appearances for the A team that season, while still a youngster, Sunshine had been described by former Spurs first team player Eddie Clayton as a ‘ boy wonder ’. After leaving Spurs Sunshine went onto play for the likes of Millwall, Leyton Orient and Faversham Town. His career and my interview with David made absolutely fascinating reading, and he is one of the nicest guys that your ever likely to meet, he also has an exceptional sense of humour. Sunshine currently resides in County Essex. 

Freddie Sharpe: The Brockley born centre half played 22 games for the A team during the 1960/61 season. A good central defender who would play twice for the Spurs first team in competitive competitions, scoring one goal. Sharpe was an important player for the A team and he asserted himself well on the team. After leaving Spurs, Sharpe went onto join Norwich City who he played 111 competitive appearances for. Freddie would then later go onto play for Reading who he made 64 appearances for. After retiring from football Sharpe became a school football coach before later becoming a salesman. The 82 year old currently resides in County Berkshire.

Alan Dennis: Born in Ashcot, Somerset but brought up in Bermondsey, South London. The talented fullback who captained an England schoolboys team which included David Pleat. Dennis was very good as a schoolboy at Arsenal and he did well to progress to the Spurs A team for the 1960/61 season after joining them. He made three appearances for them that season. Dennis was a good left back who after leaving Spurs would later go onto play for Cambridge City (under former Spurs player Tony Marchi), Dover, Ramsgate Athletic, Harwich & Parkeston, Clacton Town and Tilbury. Now retired, Alan currently resides in County Kent.

Bill Dodge: The late wing half was a tough tackling defensive minded player who was also good on the ball. From Hackney in East London, Dodge was signed to Spurs from Eton Manor in October 1957 and he would go onto make 13 appearances for the Tottenham Hotspur first team (some of them came when the great Danny Blanchflower was dropped from the first team in the late 1950’s). However, during the 1960/61 season Dodge, whose main skill was his tackling, made two appearances for the Spurs A team in the Eastern Counties league. Dodge left Spurs in 1962 when he went to join Crystal Palace although he only played three games for the ‘ Eagles ’.  He would later go onto play for Kettering Town, Ashford, Leyton-Wingate and Aylesbury.

Dennis Walker: A right back by trade Dennis Walker only made one appearance for the Spurs A team during the 1960/61 season. Walker, who would only train at Spurs once a week, never did play for the A team a lot during his time at the Lilywhites. It is unknown where Walker went after leaving the North London club.

Anthony Smith: Strong and skilful centre half Anthony Smith was a mainstay in the A team during the 1960/61 season, making 28 appearances for them. Smith was a tall defender who was remembered for his ball juggling skills and communication skills, and he was a talented player who in the eyes of his former Spurs teammates was unlucky not to make the grade at Spurs. Smith was from Royston in Hertfordshire and after leaving Spurs he would later emigrate to South Africa where he played for Durban United under former Spurs great Peter Baker. It is unknown where Smith currently resides or who he played for after leaving Durban United.

Eddie Hawkins: Ilford born centre half Eddie Hawkins was of stocky build and he played on three occasions for the Spurs A team during the 1960/61 season. Hawkins was never on the Tottenham ground staff and it is unknown where he went after leaving the Lilywhites.

Norman Lee: Norman T Lee (nicknamed ‘ Rosy Lee ’) hailed from Trealaw in the Rhondda Valley, Wales. Lee was a midfield player (mostly on the right side) but he would have found it extremely difficult to break into the Tottenham first team  during the early 1960’s due to the quality of the players that they had in that position. Lee was a good midfield player who had good vision for making long raking passes. The Welshman who was quite tall, was also good in the air and he loved scoring goals from outside of the box. Lee made 22 appearances for Spurs’ A team that season, scoring six goals. After leaving Spurs, Norman went on to play for Southend United before then playing for fellow south coast club Bournemouth. Sadly Norman passed away in Brighton in July 2014.

Alan Reed: Ilford born and described as a brilliant wing half by David Sunshine, who was unlucky not to break into the Spurs first team. He was a real talent and during the 1960/61 season Alan J Reed made 23 appearances for the old A team, scoring two goals. Unfortunately it is unknown where Reed went after leaving Spurs.

Jimmy Lye: Ireland born during the Second World War but brought up in Hackney, East London. Jimmy F Lye operated as a fullback/midfielder and he would go onto become a good player for the Tottenham reserve team in future seasons. After leaving Spurs, Lye would go onto play for a talented Barnet side along with old Spurs teammates Ben Embery and Roger Smith. Lye who was described as a good player, only made two appearances for the Spurs A team during the 1960/61 season.

Joe Fleming: Scotland born and formerly of the Banks O’ Dee football club in Aberdeen. Fleming was a little winger who possessed great pace, balance and skill and who according to David Sunshine his only criticism was that he would hold onto the ball for too long. The Scotsman made 20 appearances for the A team during the 1960/61 season, scoring five goals. Fleming would never play for the Tottenham first team and after leaving the Lilywhites he played for Cardiff City though I am unsure if he ever played for the ‘ Blue Birds ’ first team. After retiring the former winger moved to the Algarve in Portugal.

Roy Peacock: Roy Peacock made 18 appearances for the A team that season, scoring one goal. Peacock who is from Dagenham, was a strong player who was adept at playing as a centre forward or as an inside forward. Peacock’s current whereabouts or where he went to after leaving Spurs is unknown. 

Brian Fittock: A very skilful left winger, Brian Fittock was also a good striker of a ball, and he scored nine goals from 18 appearances that season for the A team. Fittock was a good two footed winger and he hailed from East Ham in East London. Fittock is remembered for having a good sense of humour however, it is unknown where he went to after playing for Spurs. 

Graham Thomson: From Kings Lynn and formerly a player of Kings Lynn FC who he still holds the record for, for being their youngest ever player. Thomson was a creative inside forward who was quite a skilful player and he made nine appearances for the A team that season scoring two goals. Thomson would also play for the reserve side on two occasions that season, scoring two goals. It is unfortunately unknown who the outside right played for after leaving Spurs however, now retired he currently resides back in County Norfolk. 

Bert Wilkie: A Scottish inside forward who was born in Dundee and joined Spurs from Lochee Harp in 1956. Wilkie made one competitive appearance for the Spurs first team however, during the 1960/61 season the prolific and skilful left winger scored 25 goals from 26 appearances. Like many in that A side Wilkie didn’t get a lot of opportunities with the Spurs first team however, his impact on the Tottenham A side during the 1960/61 season was immense. Now retired Wilkie is living back in Scotland. 

Roy Low: Watford born winger Roy Low would go onto make eight appearances for the Tottenham Hotspur first team but during the 1960/61 season he made two appearances for the Spurs A team. Low, who used to play for England schoolboys was a good winger who would later go onto play for Watford and Bedford Town. He left Spurs in 1967.

Roy Moss: The Maldon born centre forward was a goal scorer who was also a highly skilled player. Moss made 22 appearances for the A team scoring an impressive total of 14 goals during the 1960/61 season however he found it difficult to break into the first team and he left Spurs in 1962 to join then fourth division side Gillingham. Moss made 14 appearances for the ‘ Gills ’ first team scoring three goals. After leaving Gillingham the centre moved to Canterbury City before residing in the Chatham area of Kent for many years.

Ron Piper: Lowestoft born inside forward Ron Piper began his career as an amateur with Arsenal before joining Spurs in 1960 and staying until 1963 (he made one competitive appearance for the first team) before moving on and playing for Wimbledon and Guildford City. Another important member of the Spurs A team during the 1960/61 season, Piper made 28 appearances scoring 19 goals. Ron who is now retired, currently resides back in Lowestoft, County Norfolk.  

Roger Smith: A good left winger who was born in Welwyn Garden City, Roger Smith made one appearance for the A team during that 1960/61 season. Smith would later play for Exeter City and Barnet. He now works for Arsenal as a video scout and resides in County Essex.

B King: Most probably only a trialist at Spurs during the 1960/61 season, King only played once for the A team that season and is not remembered by any of the other members of the Spurs A team, and therefore I was unable to identify his first name.

Barry Roffman: The lively London born inside forward played two games for the A team that season, scoring a hat-trick in a 9-0 win over Biggleswade Town. Roffman sadly passed away in 2014.

Terry Lloyd: A centre forward by trade who was also adept at playing out wide, the young Terry Lloyd only made one appearance for the Spurs A team during the 1960-61 season. Lloyd was an extremely quick player and he was also good with both feet. He would compete with Frank Saul for a place in the A team the following season. From East Ham in East London, Lloyd would later go onto play for West Ham United and a host of non league sides. Lloyd would then go onto work in the London docks before later training to become a London black taxi driver. A job that he did for many, many years. Now retired, Terry currently resides in central County Bedfordshire.

Colin Brown: A prolific centre forward for the A team who was formerly of Aylesbury United where he netted 15 goals in 56 appearances, for the Buckinghamshire based club. Brown was an enthusiastic striker although only part time at Spurs however, the young Colin D Brown (also known as ‘ Buster Brown ’) who was born in Watford, was a goal scorer (he had a powerful right foot) who was also good in the air despite not being very tall. Brown was a key component of the Spurs A team who won the Eastern Counties league that season and he scored a hugely impressive 28 goals from 29 appearances for the Lilywhites. Unfortunately nobody knows where Brown went to after departing Spurs in the early 1960’s and it is not known if he continued his playing career. However, there is no doubting that the consistent centre forward was a major reason why Spurs won the 1960/61 Eastern Counties League.

(To any of the ex Spurs players from the old A team reading this it would be great to hear from you).

Some notes on Spurs loanee Armando Shashoua’s performance against Coruxo:

After making his competitive debut for Atlético Baleares the previous week against Pontevedra after coming on as a late substitute, Spurs loanee Armando Shashoua made his first start Atlético on Sunday. Manix Mandiola’s table topping side traveled to Galicia to take on Coruxo in the third tier of Spanish football. Armando was handed his first start as a CAM after fellow attacking midfielder Jordan Holsgrove was out injured. After some good early pressing and off the ball movement Shashoua tried his best to link the play during the early stages of the game. Shashoua’s first real involvement in the game occurred around the 18 minute mark. After the 19 year old picked the ball up on the right flank he showed some nice skill before swivelling around and passing the ball to Atlético centre forward Gabarre who attempted to lay the ball off to Alberto Gil however, he was intercepted by Coruxo defender Borja Yebra. Shashoua continued to press the oppositions players well and he was also making some clever runs into the Coruxo box which weren’t being picked up. Around six minutes later and after winning the ball off of Borja Yebra, Shashoua advanced into the Coruxo penalty area before attempting to feed it into Gabarre however, Corxuo defender Crespo managed to get in front of him to intercept the ball. It was a scrappy game and frustratingly for the highly skilful Armando Shashoua, Atlético were playing the ball in the air quite a lot.

Armando continued to move around the pitch well and his control and first touch was impressive. During the early stages of the second half Shashoua managed to do well to win the ball off of Añon before doing a nice bit of skill, before he was fouled and won a free kick in a promising position (Shashoua was fouled quite a lot in this game). Armando was replaced by Piris in the 61st minute of the game. This was a solid debut performance from the teenager who will also be hoping to start Atlético’s next game which is at home to Ferrol next Sunday morning, in the absence of Jordan Holsgrove who is out injured for a couple of months.

Spurs under 23’s 2-3 Leicester City: (match report)

Wayne Burnett’s Spurs under 23 side took on high flying Leicester City in the PL2 on Friday night. Spurs started the game well and they took the lead on 18 minutes through Dilan Markanday. However, after squandering a number of golden chances Spurs allowed Leicester to draw level before halftime. The ‘ Foxes ’ then managed to take the lead before the interval through Callum Wright, it in no way reflected how well Spurs had played in the first half. In the second half Burnett’s side managed to draw level through Jubril Okedina before Leicester regained the lead and went onto secure all three points. Spurs lined up in a 4-2-3-1 formation as goalkeeper Josh Oluwayemi started between the sticks while a back four consisting of Jubril Okedina, Malachi Fagan-Walcott, Jonathan Dinzeyi and Dennis Cirkin lined up in front of him. Captain Brooklyn Lyons-Foster and Harvey White anchored the midfield while Maurizio Pochettino and Dilan Markanday operated out wide on the flanks, either side of CAM Rodel Richards. Centre forward Kion Etete started up top for Spurs. Spurs got the game underway on a cold night at Holmes Park in County Leicestershire. After defender Malachi Fagan-Walcott had passed the ball to Dilan Markanday on the left wing, the Spurs winger advanced forward before whipping in a low deflected cross which came to Brooklyn Lyons-Foster on the edge of the box however, his low first time effort flew just wide of Viktor Johannson’s goal.

A couple of minutes later and after latching onto the ball on the edge of the Leicester box Harvey White forced a save out of Johansson from his lowly struck effort. White then whipped in a corner kick which was cleared away by Callum Wright. After doing well down the left wing Tottenham fullback Dennis Cirkin managed to dribble into the Leicester box before forcing a low save out of Johannson. Cirkin then cleared away Callum Wright’s corner kick before George Hirst had a goal disallowed after handling the ball. Then at the other side of the pitch Josh Eppiah shot wide from the edge of the Spurs box before Spurs took the lead through Dilan Markanday in the 18th minute of the game. After Rodel Richards received the ball he passed the ball to Markanday out on the left flank, who dribbled his way into the Leicester box before shooting. Markanday’s effort deflected off of Leicester defender Darnell Johnson before nestling inside the bottom right hand corner of the goal, 1-0. The home side came close to drawing level after Josh Eppiah advanced down the left side of the Spurs box before shooting however, Oluwayemi did really well to push his powerful effort behind for a corner kick. Markanday then cleared away Callum Wright’s corner kick before the same player blazed an effort over Oluwayemi’s goal from range. Oluwayemi then punched away Vontae Daley-Campbell’s corner kick.

After Maurizio Pochettino latched onto the ball he passed it to the overlapping Jubril Okedina down the right hand side of the Leicester box but Okedina shot wide of the Leicester goal. A couple of minutes later Maurizio Pochettino latched onto Viktor Johannson’s loose pass. Pochettino then played through Rodel Richards whose effort was saved by the Swedish goalkeeper after taking a deflection off of Calvin Ughelumba. Harvey White then had a corner kick cleared away by Sam Hughes before Spurs had a golden chance to double their lead. After Markanday managed to find Fagan-Walcott who was unmarked inside the Leicester box with a pass. Fagan-Walcott had only Johannson to beat however, he placed his effort straight at the Leicester goalkeeper before Richards blazed over from close range. At the opposite end of the pitch Josh Oluwayemi punched away Luke Thomas’ cross before Josh Eppiah latched onto the ball inside the Spurs box. However, Oluwayemi came out quickly to close down Eppiah well and save his resulting shot, before he comfortably gathered Luke Thomas’ cross. Pochettino then had a cross gathered by Johansson before Jonathan Dinzeyi blocked George Hirst’s shot inside the Tottenham box. Shortly before the break Dennis Cirkin gave away a penalty after he fouled Vontae Daley-Campbell inside the Spurs box after the former Arsenal man had turned around him. George Hirst stood up to take the resulting penalty kick before burying it powerfully down the middle of Oluwayemi’s goal, 1-1. Jonathan Dinzeyi made a good challenge on George Hirst inside the Spurs box shortly afterwards.

A couple of minutes later and deep into first half stoppage time Leicester managed to take the lead for the first time in the game. Callum Wright met Vontae Daley-Campbell’s cross from the right flank and he powerfully headed the ball into the back of the net despite the best efforts of Oluwayemi on the line, 1-2. The halftime whistle was sounded by the referee less than a minute later. The home side got the second half underway and soon into the half Oluwayemi was called into action to save Matty James’ effort from range. Kion Etete then headed wide Dilan Markanday’s good deflected cross before at the other end of the pitch George Hirst latched onto Vontae Daley-Campbell’s cross before shooting but it was blocked by Okedina. Viktor Johnansson then gathered Dennis Cirkin’s cross before Darnell Johnson blocked another cross from the Dublin fullback moments later. After Rodel Richards had played the ball into Dilan Markanday down the left hand side of the Leicester box the Spurs winger shot wide of the goal before Spurs drew level. Cirkin passed the ball to Dilan Markanday who shifted the ball out to Jubril Okedina down the right. Okedina picked the ball up on the edge of the Leicester box and he looked up before rifling the ball into the bottom left hand corner of the goal, 2-2. The Spurs players then had a penalty shout waived away after Darnell Johnson appeared to handle the ball inside the Leicester box.

Josh Oluwayemi gathered Luke Thomas’ cross before Dinzeyi cleared away Vontae Daley-Campbell’s corner kick. Leicester regained the lead shortly afterwards after Matty James found George Hirst inside the Spurs box, Hirst turned sharply around Dennis Cirkin before firing the ball into the bottom left hand corner of Oluwayemi’s goal, 2-3. In response Spurs made a double change as Rayan Clarke came onto replace Maurizio Pochettino while Jeremie Mukendi came onto replace Kion Etete. There was then a half hearted penalty appeal after Darnell Johnson challenged Dilan Markanday inside the Leicester box before Jonathan Dinzeyi headed wide Dilan Markanday’s corner kick. Jamie Bowden would then come onto replace Jonathan Dinzeyi as Brooklyn Lyons-Foster slotted back into central defence. The powerful George Hirst then fired an effort just wide of Josh Oluwayemi’s goal before Bowden had a shot blocked by Calvin Ughelumba inside the Leicester box. Leicester came close to netting a fourth goal after Matty James passed the ball to the newly introduced Tyrese Shade, he continued forward down the right flank before firing an effort just wide of Oluwayemi’s goal. The referee then sounded his whistle for full time a couple of moments later.

Player reviews: 

• Josh Oluwayemi: The Spurs goalkeeper made three saves on the night including a couple of hugely impressive ones. Oluwayemi also dealt really well with crosses and set pieces.
• Jubril Okedina: This was a good performance from the right back who apart from defending solidly (the south Londoner made some good blocks), Okedina also showed some great skill on the ball. The 19 year old stayed deep when he had to but he also got forward well and he went on some good overlapping runs. Okedina took his goal really well (his first in the PL2).
• Malachi Fagan-Walcott: The RCB formed a strong defensive partnership with Jonathan Dinzeyi at centre back. Fagan-Walcott was strong in the air and good on the ground. He also read the game well.
• Jonathan Dinzeyi: Like Fagan-Walcott, Dinzeyi had a good game and he was good in the air and he made some really good challenges on the ground. The 20 year old also brought the ball out well from the back.
• Dennis Cirkin: The attacking left back went on some promising forward runs during the early stages of the game before later opting to stay deep.
• Brooklyn Lyons-Foster: The Spurs captain operated as a number four for Friday evenings game against Leicester City and I thought that he did a good job in that position. Lyons-Foster was aggressive and he did well at snuffing out the danger and sweeping up in front of the back four. Lyons-Foster’s energy levels and stamina was impressive on the night.
• Harvey White: The central midfielder patrolled the midfield and he did a good job alongside Lyons-Foster at sweeping up in front of the back four. White showed good bite to his game and he remained tenacious throughout Fridays game. He also made some nice forward passes.
• Maurizio Pochettino: Although Spurs didn’t focus their attentions down the right hand side, Pochettino used the ball well when he got it. The Barcelona born winger showed some nice skill and he made a couple of clever passes.
• Rodel Richards: Operating in the CAM role Rodel Richards showed good energy and he created a couple of decent chances.
• Dilan Markanday: My man of the match, see below.
• Kion Etete: The 18 year old didn’t get great service although he did do a good job at holding the ball up. 
• Jeremie Mukendi: The second half substitute pressed well when he came on.
• Rayan Clarke: The late substitute worked hard out on the right flank and he tracked back well after him.
• Jamie Bowden: It was great to see the Ireland under 19 international back in action, after he returned from a recent injury to come on as a late substitute against Leicester. Bowden looked nice and sharp when he came on in central midfield.

My man of the match: Skilful winger Dilan Markanday put in a very good performance out on the right flank. Markanday chipped in with a goal and an assist. The 18 year old dribbled forward with the ball well before finding the back of the net before later showing good vision to pick out Jubril Okedina for his goal. The Barnet born first year pro went on many a good jinking run down the right flank and he also tracked back excellently after himself, and he made some good tackles. This was a good all round performance from Markanday who was always direct and looking to whip low crosses into the Leicester box. 

Leicester City: Johansson, Johnson (C, Ndukwu 64), Thomas, James, Hughes, Ughelumba, Daley-Campbell, Wright, Hirst, Leshabela (Reghba 64), Eppiah (Shade 74). Substitutes (not used): Arlott-John, Stolarczyk.

Spurs: Oluwayemi, Okedina, Cirkin, Lyons-Foster, Fagan-Walcott, Dinzeyi (Bowden 85), Pochettino (Clarke 78), White, Richards, Etete (Mukendi 78), Markanday. Substitutes (not used): Kurylowicz, Thorpe.

Goals: Leicester – Hirst (penalty) 44, 74, Wright 45+3; Spurs – Markanday 18, Okedina 58.

Yellow cards: Leicester – Daley-Campbell 66.

Referee: Martin Woods.

Venue: Holmes Park, Leicester.

Spurs under 23’s statistics: 

Goals: Armando Shashoua – 5

Harvey White – 3

Rodel Richards – 3

Jamie Bowden – 3

Dilan Markanday – 3

Troy Parrott – 2

Kazaiah Sterling – 2

Tashan Oakley-Boothe – 2

Shilow Tracey – 1

Paris Maghoma – 1

Phoenix Patterson – 1

Elliot Thorpe – 1

Luis Binks – 1

Malachi Fagan-Walcott – 1

Jubril Okedina – 1

Assists: Shilow Tracey – 5

Dilan Markanday – 5

Tashan Oakley-Boothe – 3

Armando Shashoua – 3

Rodel Richards – 3

Tariq Hinds – 2

Harvey White – 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 23’s versus Leicester City: (match preview)

Our under 23’s are in action tomorrow night when they take on second place Leicester City at Holmes Park, in the Leicestershire countryside. Wayne Burnett’s side who are hovering just above the relegation zone, will have to adapt quickly to losing a number of players during the January transfer window. Steve Beaglehole’s Leicester City on the other hand are only three points away from league leaders Chelsea, and they have been in fine form this season picking up 29 points from 16 league games. The ‘ Foxes ’ have a number of players on their books who are capable of influencing matches. Experienced Polish midfielder/forward Bartosz Kapustka is one, while Irish centre forward Ali Reghba is another. Portuguese midfielder Sidnei Tavares is also another player to keep an eye on. Like Spurs, Leicester who impressively reached the quarter finals of the EFL trophy, have loaned a number of players out and this could affect them tomorrow night. This will be a very tough game for Spurs who in Leicester will be playing one of the finest sides in the league. However, this is also a good opportunity for some of the younger members of Burnett’s side to play. Spurs could however, be boosted by the return of Ireland under 19 international Jamie Bowden for tomorrow’s game, his return would be a massive plus for Spurs. I shall be travelling to Holmes Park tomorrow to report on the game, and I would like to wish the lads all the very best of luck.

My predicted lineup: (4-2-3-1) Oluwayemi, Okedina, Fagan-Walcott, Lyons-Foster, Cirkin, White, Bowden (c), Markanday, Patterson, Bennett, Etete.

Subs from: De Bie, Statham, Hinds, Thorpe, Clarke.

Injured/unavailable: N/A.

Doubtful: Rodel Richards, Jamie Bowden.

Previous meeting: Spurs 0-2.

My score prediction: 2-2.

My one to watch: Physical 20 year old Irish centre forward Ali Reghba who has netted two goals from 12 appearances in the PL2 this season. 

 

My piece on our under 18’s dynamic attacking midfielder – Max Robson:

Max Robson (17) is a first year scholar in Tottenham Hotspur’s Academy who has been making waves for our under 18’s so far this season. Robson predominantly operates as a CAM, although he is comfortable filling in at CM and CF if he needs to. The teenager who was born in Haywards Heath in County Sussex, but brought up in Burgess Hill and attended Birchwood High School, is a highly talented young player who I am writing the following piece about to give Spurs fans a feel for what type of player the skilful attacking midfielder is, and in this piece I will be talking about the teenagers best attributes and style of play. Robson would have first come to the attention of followers of the Spurs Academy set up as an under 15, when he was a part of a Spurs under 17 side who competed in the ALKASS Cup in Qatar (Robson scored a goal in the game against Guangzhou Evergrande). Robson, who was a mainstay in our under 16 side last season where he chipped in with a number of goals and assists, had to wait until August 2019 before he made his competitive debut for Spurs’ under 18’s. Max made his under 18 league debut in a game against Brighton & Hove Albion in the August of 2019 which he gave a good account of himself in. Robson has been in fine form so far this season for Matt Taylor’s under side 18 side and Ryan Mason’s under 19 side. Directly involved in 11 goals from 21 games (Max has netted six goals and registered five assists). 

Robson is a versatile player though it appears that his favoured or most natural position is as a CAM or as a shadow striker, although he is as similarly as good and effective when he plays in central midfield. As a CAM and as a central midfielder, the nimble footed Robson is a highly skilful player who loves to take opposing teams players on. His exciting style of play is combined with his high work rate, and his love of pressing players (he is aggressive and gets right up in players faces). He also has good ball retention rates and he covers vast amounts of the pitch during each match. Furthermore, Robson is quick and with his good close ball control and skill he is very difficult to dislodge once he is on the ball. Reminding me a little bit of a young Jack Grealish, Robson is a silky player who has great balance. In addition, like Grealish he wins a lot of fouls. Often involved in our under 18’s intricate attacking play, the teenager from County Sussex does a good job at trying to link the play and he makes intelligent decisions both on and off the ball. In addition Robson is good at dribbling the ball into the box and his runs into the danger zone are always impeccably timed. Robson also has good of the ball movement, vision for, and a nice weight of pass. However, it doesn’t matter whether he is playing as a CM or a CAM he epitomises Matt Taylor’s side positivity and he is always looking to drive forward with the ball, and he scans the pitch looking to make that forward pass and pull of a sublime piece of skill. 

The 17 year old makes just as a good an impact on the game when he plays at central midfield and with his strength on the ball and skill he is very good at filling in there. Robson is also defensively responsible and his high work rate and ability to fill in and cover for other teammates is another useful attribute of his game. While he is essentially a very elegant player, Robson also does the dirty and unappreciated side of the game well and he is especially good at scrapping for the ball, he also plays the game like Jamie Bowden and Harvey White and those before him, with real bite. And touching on Robson’s versatility and adaptability, he can also play up front as a number nine as he has done on a couple of occasions so far this season when we have been missing an out and out centre forward, and Robson can do a sterling job up top also. Like the older Spurs Academy graduate Jack Roles who is a player that Max really reminds me of when Roles played at under 18 level. Both players have excellent off the ball movement, are intelligent in their all round play and are able to link the play well. However, most importantly of all both players score goals from midfield and that is something which will take them very far in the modern game. Robson who has a thumping shot at his disposal, shares many similarities with Roles and I see a lot of the young Jack in Max. The alert attacking midfielder who scores all different types of goals, is a very exciting young talent who I am hopeful of having a big future at the Lilywhites. Despite having to limp off the pitch in our under 18’s last league game against Norwich City, Max will hopefully be back in time for our under 18’s next game which is against West Ham on February the 22nd.

Robson has been an absolute pleasure to watch so far this season and his influence on our under 18 side has been immense. Max should be very proud of the consistently very good performances that he has put in so far this season and hopefully he will make his under 23 debut before the season ends.