Spurs under 21’s 1-1 Colchester United (Spurs won 6-5 on penalties): (match report)

Our development side took on league two club Colchester United on Tuesday night, in our second group game of this seasons Leasing.com trophy. Wayne Burnett’s side needed to win the game to stand any chance of progressing out of the group. Spurs put in a really positive performance at the Colchester Community stadium, it was a performance which showed great team spirit and resilience. Burnett’s young side played some good football during the first half however, they went behind on 44 minutes after Colchester opened the scoring. Spurs fought back during the second half and once again they played some nice, positive, attacking football. The young ‘ Lilywhites ‘ hard work was rewarded on 75 minutes when Tashan Oakley-Boothe drew Spurs level, after being set up by TJ Eyoma, as the game ended in a 1-1 draw. However, to determine who would get the extra bonus point the game would go to a penalty shoot out. And it was Spurs who came out of it victorious, coming out of it 6-5 winners to keep their chances of qualifying from the group still alive. Spurs lined up in their usual 4-2-3-1 formation as Jonathan De Bie started in goal. A back four consisting of TJ Eyoma, Malachi Walcott, Luis Binks and Tariq Hinds lined up in front of him. Captain Jamie Bowden and Harvey White anchored the midfield, as Armando Shashoua played in the hole behind striker Rodel Richards, while Tashan Oakley-Boothe and Shilow Tracey operated out on the flanks. Spurs got the game underway on a chilly evening in Essex. A good early move from Spurs saw Tariq Hinds cross the ball into the Colchester penalty area, where he managed to pick out Rodel Richards. After latching onto the ball Richards played a quick one two with Oakley-Boothe, before having a shot on goal blocked by Omar Sowunmi. After a steady start to the game league two Colchester launched their first meaningful attack of the night. After Jevani Brown burst down the right flank, he came inside onto his left foot before curling an effort over Jonathan De Bie’s crossbar. The lively Armando Shashoua then had a good pass to Shilow Tracey cut out by Omar Sowunmi before Kwame Poku had an effort on goal blocked by Luis Binks, before Tariq Hinds blocked Tom Lapslie’s effort. 

After Luis Binks conceded a free kick on the edge of the Spurs penalty area, Luke Norris curled over De Bie’s crossbar. Shortly afterwards Jamie Bowden passed the ball to Rodel Richards who entered the Colchester penalty area before dragging the ball across the face of Ethan Ross’ goal, but it was cleared behind for a a corner kick by Tom Lapslie. After Bowden gave the ball away to Colchester’s Tom Lapslie he fed In Luke Norris whose effort on goal deflected off of Tariq Hinds before going behind for a corner. Jonathan De Bie punched clear Lapslie’s resulting corner kick, before winning a foul. Spurs were knocking the ball around the park well. After Armando Shashoua played a nice pass through to Rodel Richards down the left side of the Colchester penalty area, Richards let fly, but his effort was saved rather painfully by the face of Ethan Ross who had come running out to meet Richards. After skipping away from Ryan Clampin, Tashan Oakley-Boothe whipped a low cross into the Colchester box by Tom Eastman. Harvey White’s resulting corner kick was controlled by Shilow Tracey inside the Colchester box, before being fired over by the Tottenham winger. Malachi Walcott was shown a yellow card by the referee for a challenge on Luke Norris, before Jevani Brown’s free kick was headed into the arms of Jonathan De Bie by Omar Sowunmi. Then in the 44th minute of the game the home side took the lead. Ryan Clampin’s cross into the Spurs penalty ares was met by Luke Norris at the back post. The Colchester forwards resulting header on goal beat De Bie before being cleared into his own goal by Malachi Walcott, on the line, 0-1. Harvey White blocked Brendan Sarpong-Wiredu’s shot on the edge of the Spurs box before the referee blew his whistle for halftime. Colchester got the second half underway. After receiving Kwame Poku’s pass, Brendan Sarpong-Wiredu whipped a dangerous ball across the face of Jonathan De Bie’s goal. Harvey White then fired a speculative effort over Ethan Ross’ crossbar from long range, before Tashan Oakley-Boothe had a cross cleared behind by Omar Sowunmi.

Luis Binks blocked Kwame Poku’s shot on goal before Poku passed the ball to Brendan Sarpong-Wiredu inside the Spurs box however, his cut back pass was cleared behind by Malachi Walcott who was in the right place at the right time. Jamie Bowden was replaced by Phoenix Patterson before Jonathan De Bie gathered a cross from Brendan Sarpong-Wiredu. Jevani Brown then fired an effort narrowly over the Spurs goal after he received the ball down the left flank. Tashan Oakley-Boothe then had a cross cleared behind by Tom Eastman before Spurs drew level. A nice move from the young Lilywhites ended in Armando Shashoua passing the ball to TJ Eyoma out on the right flank, the Spurs right back then slipped a pass into Tashan Oakley-Boothe who burst forward, into the Colchester box. Oakley-Boothe’s resulting low effort came off of Colchester goalkeeper Ethan Ross before nestling inside the bottom left hand come of the goal, 1-1.  Wayne Burnett punched the air in relief. Dilan Markanday came onto replace Shilow Tracey before the newly introduced winger whipped in a cross which came off the Colchester crossbar. After receiving Harvey White’s pass on the edge of the Colchester penalty area, Richards turned before shooting narrowly wide of goal. Jevani Brown passed the ball to Ryan Clampin inside the Spurs box but his effort on goal was blocked by Tariq Hinds. After Luke Norris passed the ball to Jevani Brown down the right flank the Colchester man came forward down the right flank before being met by Malachi Walcott who made a good sliding intervention. Kion Etete came onto replace Rodel Richards up top. Soon after coming on Etete received the ball inside the Colchester box after Armando Shashoua went on a tricky forward run. However, Etete’s low first time effort was saved by Ethan Ross. Phoenix Patterson then played a quick one two with Dilan Markanday on the edge of the Colchester box before having a low shot saved by Ethan Ross. 

Dilan Markanday cleared Jevani Brown’s long free kick inside the Spurs box before Colchester came desperately close to winning it late on in the game. After Ryan Clampin passed the ball to Jevani Brown inside Spurs box, Brown laid the ball off to Courtney Senior who passed to Tom Eastman who somehow shot wide of De Bie’s goal. The referee blew his whistle for full time shortly afterwards. The extra bonus point would be decided by a penalty shootout. Luis Binks of Spurs stood up to take the first penalty and the left footed defender calmly slotted the ball into the bottom right hand corner of the goal to put Spurs 1-0 up. Luke Norris then took Colchester’s penalty however, the physical centre forward blasted the ball against and over Jonathan De Bie’s crossbar. Harvey White then struck the bottom right hand post as Colchester had the chance to draw level in the shootout. And Jevani Brown fired the ball into the bottom right hand corner of De Bie’s goal, 1-1. Armando Shashoua then cleverly staggered his run to make it 2-1 to Spurs by slotting the ball into the bottom right hand corner of the goal, before Theo Robinson fired the ball into the roof of De Bie’s goal. Phoenix Patterson’s resulting effort hit the bottom right hand post before going wide. Ryan Jackson then scored to make it 2-3 despite De Bie getting a hand on the ball. TJ Eyoma then stepped up to slot the ball into the bottom right hand corner of the goal before Noah Chilvers effort was saved by De Bie who had gone the right way. Kion Etete then made it 4-3 after he tucked the ball into the left corner of the goal despite Ross getting a hand on the ball. Tom Eastman then fired the ball into the top right hand corner of the goal to make it 4-4 before Tariq Hinds slotted the ball into the bottom right hand corner of the goal. Ryan Jackson then fired the ball into the top right hand corner of De Bie’s goal with the Belgian getting a hand on the ball. Malachi Walcott then calmly stepped up to slot the ball into the bottom right hand corner of the goal, 6-5. And luckily for Spurs Brandon Comley then shot wide of the goal as Spurs managed to claim that vital bonus point which, leaves them still in with a chance of progressing out of the group. 

Player reviews: 

• Jonathan De Bie: The Spurs goalkeeper made one save in total and he generally had a solid game. De Bie’s kicking and distribution was good and he remained vocal throughout. De Bie saved one penalty in the shootout.
• TJ Eyoma: I thought that this was a mature performance from the 19 year old at right back. A position which he hasn’t played in for some time. Eyoma defended his side of the pitch well and he also got forward a lot down the right flank. Eyoma also set up Tashan Oakley-Boothe’s goal.
• Malachi Walcott: It was a really solid showing at RCB from young Malachi Walcott who, imposed himself really well on the game by making some strong and well timed challenges. Walcott read the game very well along side Binks and he also took his penalty kick very well.
• Luis Binks: My man of the match, see below.
• Tariq Hinds: The 19 year old put in a solid performance for Spurs at left back where he made some important blocks and interceptions. Hinds kept good positioning throughout the game.
• Harvey White: A calming figure in the middle of the park, LCM Harvey White moved the ball about well and he also did a good job at breaking up play and protecting the back four.
• Jamie Bowden: The Spurs captain who has just been called up to the Republic of Ireland under 19 squad, had a good game for Spurs on Tuesday night. Bowden kept the ball moving, nicely in the middle of the park and he made some important defensive interventions. He imposed himself well on what was a very physical game of football. 
• Tashan Oakley-Boothe: Oakley-Boothe had a good game out on the right flank where he went on some good surging runs. The 19 year old took his goal well and he showed good composure in front of goal.
• Armando Shashoua: The lively attacking midfielder was always on the lookout for the ball, and he created some good chances for the forwards (he was involved in our goal). The hardworking Shashoua poached the ball well and he also went on some good, mazy forward runs. He also dispatched his penalty with real class. 
• Shilow Tracey: Despite tracking back excellently, Tracey never really got into the game much from an attacking perspective.
• Rodel Richards: The 19 year olds movement was good and he came close to finding the back of the net on a couple of occasions, during his time on the pitch.
• Phoenix Patterson: The attacking midfielder brought some good energy to the game. Patterson’s passing was good and he got into some dangerous positions in the final third. 
• Dilan Markanday: The 18 year old went on a couple of good runs down the left flank and he also struck the Colchester crossbar.
• Kion Etete: The second half substitute came close to finding the back of the net soon after coming on. Furthermore, Etete dispatched his penalty well in the shootout.

My man of the match: Left sided centre half Luis Binks (18) put in a very mature and well disciplined performance for our under 21’s on Tuesday night. Binks, who was partnered by the similarly impressive Malachi Walcott, made some highly intelligent decisions throughout the game. The second year scholar made some excellent blocks, interceptions and clearances and he was also good in the air. However, it was Binks’ reading of the game and his anticipation of danger which impressed me the most. Him and Walcott neutralised the threat of Colchester’s speedy striker Luke Norris for large periods of yesterday’s game. The centre half tucked away his penalty well.

Colchester United: Ross, Chilvers, Clampin, Lapslie (c) (Comley 68), Eastman, Sowunmi, Poku (Robinson 79), Sarpong-Wiredu (Jackson 75), Norris, Brown, Senior. Substitutes (not used): Vose, Kensdale, Dunne, Stevenson.

Spurs: De Bie, Eyoma, Hinds, Bowden (c) (Patterson 67), Fagan-Walcott, Binks, Oakley-Boothe, White, Richards (Etete 89), Shashoua, Tracey (Markanday 75). Substitutes (not used): Oluwayemi, R Clarke, Lyons-Foster, Pochettino.

Goals: Colchester United – Norris 44; Spurs – Oakley-Boothe 75.

Yellow cards: Colchester United – Norris 52; Spurs – Fagan-Walcott 41.

Referee: Alan Young.

Venue: JobServe Community Stadium, Colchester.

Attendance: 1,061.

Spurs under 23’s statistics: 

Goals: Rodel Richards – 2

Troy Parrott – 2

Kazaiah Sterling – 2

Harvey White – 2

Tashan Oakley-Boothe – 2

Shilow Tracey – 1

Paris Maghoma – 1

Phoenix Patterson – 1

Armando Shashoua – 1

Dilan Markanday – 1

Assists: Shilow Tracey – 5

Tashan Oakley-Boothe – 2

Jamie Bowden – 1

Tariq Hinds – 1

Paris Maghoma – 1

Kazaiah Sterling – 1

Dilan Markanday – 1

Armando Shashoua -1

TJ Eyoma – 1

Clean sheets: Brandon Austin – 1

Spurs under 21’s versus Colchester United: (match preview)

(This photograph is from Tottenham Hotspur FC).

It’s win or bust for our young development side in this season Leasing.com trophy. Wayne Burnett’s side need to realistically beat league two side Colchester United when they face them at the Colchester Community Stadium on Tuesday, to stand any chance of getting out of their group. Our development side have not won a competitive game since August and their recent form has left them struggling in the PL2. Spurs only narrowly lost 2-1 to league one side Ipswich Town in their opening group game in this competition, and they’ll be filled with confidence going into tomorrow’s encounter with Colchester United knowing what they achieved in that Ipswich game, where they played some really good football for spells in the game. League two side Colchester United who are managed by John McGreal, famously defeated our first team in the Carabao cup only a couple of weeks ago, so there is some added incentive for Wayne Burnett’s side ahead of tomorrow’s game. The oppositions sit in eight place in the league two table, having picked up 19 points from their opening 12 league games. Some of the Colchester players to look out for tomorrow night include (I expect them to play a weakened side) physical forwards Frank Nouble, Luke Norris and Theo Robinson. In addition speedy wing back Cohen Bramall could cause problems down Tottenham’s right hand side, while centre halves Luke Prosser and Tom Eastman are other players to look out for. This will be a game all about physicality and skill, and which will come up on top. If Colchester do rest a number of first team players which I expect that they will, Spurs’ skilful and technically gifted players could definitely expose some weakness in the league two sides defence. However, this is going to be a very tough game for Burnett’s youngsters who could be missing a couple of players due to the ongoing international break. Players such as Paris Maghoma, Japhet Tanganga and Troy Parrott are all unlikely to feature which is a massive disadvantage for Spurs. I do however, believe in Spurs’ ability to overcome Colchester United. My in-depth match report of tomorrow’s game should be out some time on Wednesday evening.

My predicted lineup: (4-2-3-1) Whiteman, Lyons-Foster, Eyoma, Binks, Hinds, White, Bowden (c), Markanday, Oakley-Boothe, Tracey, Richards.

Subs from: De Bie, Okedina, Dinzeyi, Cirkin, Shashoua, Pochettino , Etete.

Injured/unavailable: Jeremie Mukendi. 

Doubtful: Maxwell Statham, Maximus Tainio, Japhet Tanganga, Paris Maghoma, Enock Asante, Troy Parrott.

Previous meeting: N/A.

My score prediction: Spurs 2-1.

My one to watch: Colchester’s physical centre forward Frank Nouble, who has scored three goals from 12 appearances for the league two side so far this season.

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

(This photograph is from Tottenham Hotspur FC).

Our under 18’s returned to league action on Saturday afternoon when they hosted Aston Villa at Hotspur Way. The ‘ Villains ‘ gave Spurs a really tough match and they played the game at a higher intensity than Spurs. The first half was edged by the visitors and Spurs goalkeeper Kacper Kurylowicz was forced into making some big saves to keep the scores level at the break. However, during the second half Spurs really started to fade away as Aston Villa took control of the game. Four Aston Villa goals left Spurs shell shocked although it also seemed to spur them into life. Schoolboy Dane Scarlett and Tarrelle Whittaker managed to pull goals back for Spurs, but by that point it was too late for Matt Taylor’s side to mount a comeback. Spurs lined up in their usual 4-2-3-1 formation as Kacper Kurylowicz started in goal for the young Lilywhites. A back four made up of Kallum Cesay, Marqes Muir, captain Dennis Cirkin and Dermi Lusala lined up in front of him. Max Robson and Nile John partnered up in central midfield while Romaine Mundle and Chay Cooper operated out on the flanks, either side of CAM Dane Scarlett. Second year scholar Kion Etete led the line for Spurs. Spurs got Saturday afternoons game underway. Chay Cooper had an early cross gathered by Aston Villa goalkeeepr Amos Onodi before the visitors came close to taking an early lead. Paul Appiah’s pass deflected off of Dennis Cirkin before running through to Brad Young down the right hand side of the Tottenham penalty area. Young opted to square the ball for Aaron Ramsey whose first time side footed effort struck Kacper Kurylowicz’s crossbar. A couple of moments later Dennis Cirkin gave the ball straight to Brad Young inside the Spurs box however, Kurylowicz came out and made himself big to save Young’s resulting shot excellently. A couple of minutes later the dominant visitors came close to scoring once again. After Charlie Farr slipped the ball into the feet of Brad Young, the Aston Villa forward burst into the Spurs box before attempting to beat Kurylowicz with a curling low effort. However, the Tottenham goalkeeper was equal to his effort.

Max Robson had a whipped cross gathered by Akos Onodi, before Kion Etete flicked Chay Cooper’s cross wide of Onodi’s goal. A couple of of minutes later Cooper passed the ball to Romaine Mundle whose cross was headed behind for a corner kick by Myles Sohna. Resurgent Spurs went on a good move as Nile John passed the ball to Dane Scarlett who passed the ball to Romaine Mundle whose, cross came to Chay Cooper down the left side of the Aston Villa box. Cooper’s resulting curling effort was cleared off the line by Myles Sohna. Nile John’s resulting corner kick was volleyed onto Harrison Sohna by Dane Scarlett, before Marqes Muir had a shot saved by Akos Onodi. Kacper Kurylowicz punched away Charlie Farr’s free kick before Marqes Muir cleared away Kaine Kesler’s cross. After Nile John passed the ball to Dane Scarlett the Spurs striker who shot wide of Akos Onodi’s goal. A couple of minutes later Brad Young passed the ball to Kaine Kesler down the right flank but his resulting cross was blocked by Nile John. Kacper Kurylowicz gathered Kaine Kesler’s corner kick. Then in first half stoppage time Aaron Ramsey passed the ball to Tristan Goodridge who in turn gave the ball to Brad Young who shot narrowly wide of Kacper Kurylowicz’s goal. The referee sounded his whistle for half time shortly afterwards. Aston Villa got the second half underway. Dennis Cirkin headed Chay Cooper’s corner kick into the arms of Akos Onodi before Nile John had a shot blocked by Harrison Sohna. After controlling Chay Cooper’s cross Kion Etete brought the ball down and passed it to Dane Scarlett who had a shot blocked by Harrison Sohna. A couple of minutes later Cooper first had a cross cleared away by Brad Burton before having another gathered by Akos Onodi. After Brad Young passed the ball to Aaron Ramsey on the edge of the Spurs box, the Aston Villa midfielder had a shot saved by Kacper Kurylowicz, moments before Aston Villa took the lead. After Charlie Farr received Tristan Goodridge’s pass the Aston Villa winger decided to go for goal some 25 yards out. Farr’s resulting powerful, whipped effort looped over the head of Kacper Kurylowicz and into the middle of the Spurs goal, 0-1.

On his return from a lengthy injury J’Neil Bennett came onto replace Nile John before Dane Scarlett had an effort blocked by Brad Burton inside the Aston Villa box. After receiving Carney Chukwuemeka’s pass some 20 yards out from goal, Aaron Ramsey decided to have a pop at goal. And Ramsey’s powerful effort flew past Kacper Kurylowicz and into the middle of the goal, 0-2. Tarrelle Whittaker came onto replace Romaine Mundle out on the wing before Harrison Sohna fired an effort wide of Kurylowicz’s goal. A couple of minutes later Tristan Goodridge managed to find Brad Young down the right hand side of the Spurs box with only Kacper Kurylowicz to beat but the Spurs goalkeeper produced a fine save before gathering the loose ball. J’Neil Bennett came inside from the left flank before having a curling cross gathered by Akos Onodi. Max Robson then saw his cross flicked into the arms of Akos Onodi by Dennis Cirkin inside the Aston Villa box. Aston Villa then made it 3-0. After Carney Chukwuemeka passed the ball to Brad Young he burst past Marqes Muir before entering the Spurs box and slotting the ball into the bottom left hand corner of Kacper Kurylowicz’s goal, 0-3. Yago Santiago came onto replace Max Robson before J’Neil Bennett had a curling effort saved by Onodi. Bennett then had an effort on goal blocked by Harrison Sohna, before the Tottenham winger was shown a yellow card for pulling back Aaron Ramsey. Kacper Kurylowicz saved Mo Sylla’s effort from long range a couple of moments before Aston Villa made it 4-0. After Aaron Ramsey gave the ball to Mo Sylla inside the Spurs box the Aston Villa substitute managed to squeeze the ball into the bottom left hand corner of  Kacper Kurylowicz’s goal, 0-4. Spurs tried to respond. After Lusala gave the ball to Scarlett, the Spurs schoolboy gave the ball to Bennett who had an error blocked inside the Aston Villa box by Harrison Sohna. Spurs did manage to pull a goal back after Kion Etete’s curling effort was spilt by Akos Onodi, but Dane Scarlett was on hand to sweep the loose ball home at the near post, 1-4.

After Aaron Ramsey passed the ball to Brad Young the Aston Villa forward had a shot saved by Kacper Kurylowicz. Chay Cooper then had an effort tipped over the bar by Akos Onodi before J’Neil Bennett had a cross cleared away by Myles Sohna. Then the skilful Dermi Lusala skipped past a couple of challenges before sending a nice lofted pass through to the substitute Tarrelle Whittaker down the left hand side of the Aston Villa box. Whittaker steadied himself before lashing the ball into the bottom right hand corner of the goal, 2-4. Kacper Kurylowicz saved Charlie Farr’s effort from long range before Seb Revan fired an effort wide of goal. After receiving Yago Santiago’s pass J’Neil Bennett forced a save out of Akos Onodi from a curling effort, before the referee sounded his whistle for full time. Spurs’ next game is against Arsenal after the international break.

Player reviews:

• Kacper Kurylowicz: My man of the match, see below.
• Kallum Cesay: The right back stayed deep and he made some important defensive interventions.
• Marqes Muir: The RCB made some intelligent decisions and he also brought the ball out well from the back. 
• Dennis Cirkin: It was interesting to see the 17 year old left back operate at LCB. Cirkin was generally solid in that position, and he was strong on the ball while also bringing it out well from the back. 
• Dermi Lusala: The left back had a strong game and he did well to set up Tarrelle Whittaker for his late goal.
• Nile John: On his return from injury John patrolled the midfield well and he also embarked on some good, purposeful surging forward runs. The first year scholars passing was nice and crisp. 
• Max Robson: The central midfielder kept things ticking over nicely in the middle of the park.
• Romaine Mundle: The right winger worked hard and he tracked back really well however, he didn’t get many touches of the ball during his time on the pitch.
• Dane Scarlett: The schoolboy worked really hard in the CAM role and he linked play well. Scarlett chipped in with a late goal. 
• Chay Cooper: The silky winger liked to take players on and whip crosses into the danger zone. Cooper also tried his luck on goal and he worked hard for the team.
• Kion Etete: The second year scholar led the line well for Spurs on Saturday afternoon. Etete held the ball up excellently and he got himself into some good positions in and around the danger zone. Etete got the assist for Dane Scarlett’s goal after he took responsibility and had a shot.
• J’Neil Bennett: The substitute went on some good surging forward runs and he looked dangerous whenever he was on the ball.
• Tarrelle Whittaker: The second half substitute took his goal well. 
• Yago Santiago: The first year scholar made a couple of impressive passes during his short time on the pitch. 

My man of the match: Spurs’ goalkeeper Kacper Kurylowicz had an excellent game in between the posts. The extremely vocal second year scholar would talk his teammates through yesterday’s game by encouraging them to make intelligent decisions. Kurylowicz made eight saves in total including three very impressive ones all of which were one on ones. Kurylowicz’s kicking was good and he also dealt well with crosses and set pieces. It was a very mature performance from the Tottenham goalkeeper.

Spurs: Kurylowicz, Cesay, Lusala, John (Bennett 62), Muir, Cirkin, Mundle (Whittaker 68), Robson (Santiago 78), Etete, Scarlett, Cooper. Substitutes (not used): Lo-Tutala, Pedder.

Spurs under 18’s statistics 2019/20:

Goals: 

Tarrelle Whittaker – 3

Chay Cooper – 3

Enock Asante – 3

Kion Etete –  2

Kallum Cesay – 2

Max Robson – 1

Rafferty Pedder – 1

Dane Scarlett – 1

Assists:

Tarrelle Whittaker – 2

Max Robson – 2

Chay Cooper – 2

Kion Etete – 2

Dermi Lusala – 2

Luis Binks – 1

Michael Craig – 1

Eddie Carrington – 1

Kallum Cesay – 1

Marqes Muir –  1

Enock Asante – 1

Rafferty Pedder – 1

Clean sheets: 

Kacper Kurylowicz – 2

Joshua Oluwayemi – 1

Spurs under 18’s versus Aston Villa: (match preview)

Our under 18’s return to league action tomorrow when they host Aston Villa at Hotspur Way. Matt Taylor’s side will be looking to bounce back from last Saturday’s 2-1 defeat to West Ham United in the premier league cup. So far Spurs have won three and lost three league games, and they currently sit in fifth place in the premier league south. Last season we did the double over tomorrow’s opponents, beating them 6-1 at home and 3-2 away. The ‘ Villains ‘ sit in seventh place in the league table after having a mixed start to the season.  Some of the Aston Villa players to look out for tomorrow include forward and top scorer so far this campaign, Jaden Philogene-Bidace. Another player to loook our for is Charlie Farr and striker Aaron Pressley, as well as defender Paul Appiah who has played in five of Aston Villa’s six league games this season. This will be another tough game for Spurs but hopefully they’ll have Luis Binks back captaining the side for tomorrow’s game which would be a big boost after his recent spell with the development side. Also Dennis Cirkin should return from injury for this game after he played against Bayern Munich under 19’s in midweek. If I remember correctly Aston Villa usually play with quite a lot of width at this level, and they like to pump the ball into the danger zone. My in-depth match report of the game will be out tomorrow evening. I would like to wish all of our lads all the very best of luck for this important game.

My predicted lineup: (4-2-3-1) Kurylowicz, Lusala, Walcott, Binks (c), Cirkin, Robson, Cooper, Bennett, Pedder, Whittaker, Etete.

Subs from: Lo-Tutala, Cesay, Muir, Santiago, Asante.

Injured/unavailable: Michael Craig. 

Doubtful: Jeremy Kyezu, Matthew Craig, Nile John, J’Neil Bennett.

Previous meeting: Spurs 3-2.

My score prediction: Spurs 3-1.

My one to watch: Aston Villa forward Jaden Philogene-Bidace who has scored five league goals for the ‘ Villains ‘ so far this season.

Some notes on our under 19’s disappointing 4-1 defeat to Bayern Munich:

Our under 19’s hosted Bayern Munich in their second group game of this seasons UEFA youth league, on Tuesday afternoon. Ryan Mason’s side had drawn their opening group game 1-1 against Olympiacos, so they would have been looking to pick up their first win of the campaign when German giants Bayern Munich came to town. Unfortunately my note book got completely saturated in Tuesday’s heavy rain so I will be unable to do a report of the game. Instead I will write some short notes on what was a fairly one sided game. Bayern Munich started the game with an aggression which our young lads just couldn’t match. After just nine minutes the German club has carved open our defence on two occasions resulting in them leading 2-0. However, Spurs did fight back and a well taken goal from Rodel Richards gave Ryan Mason’s side hope along with the fact that goalkeeper Joshua Oluwayemi made some big saves. However, Spurs lacked the urgency and the intensity needed to mount a proper comeback and by the beginning of the second half they were already showing signs of fading away. Bayern would go onto score two well taken goals in a game which they completely dominated. On the day some of our best performers were 16 year old right back Dermi Lusala and goalkeeper Joshua Oluwayemi however, Spurs came up against the more technical team on the day, and it makes their chances of qualifying from group B that little bit more difficult. Apologies about the length of this piece!

Spurs: Oluwayemi, Lusala (Fagan-Walcott 68), White, Bowden (c), Binks, Eyoma, Markanday (Etete 73), Oakley-Boothe (Pochettino 73), Richards, Parrott, Maghoma (Cirkin 61). Substitutes (not used): Kurylowicz, Scarlett, Robson.

Bayern Munich: Schneller, Kehl, Waidner, Stiller (Mihaljevic 75), Arrey-Mbi, Daniliuc (c), Tillman, Rhein (Mosandl 58), Zirkzee, Günther, Herrmann (Cuni 71). Substitutes (not used): Mayer, Halbich, Lawrence, Johansson.

Goals: Spurs – Richards 27; Bayern Munich – Zirkzee 4, Günther 11, 72, Mosandl 62.

Yellow cards: Spurs – Bowden 28, Maghoma 51, Oakley-Boothe 56, Eyoma 69; 

Bayern Munich – Rhein 18, Cuni 81.

Referee: Kevin Clancy (SCO).

Venue: Hotspur Way, Enfield.

Attendance: 243.

Spurs under 19’s statistics:

Goals: Troy Parrott – 1

Rodel Richards – 1

Assists: Rodel Richards – 1

Troy Parrott – 1

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

(This photograph is from Tottenham Hotspur FC).

Our under 19’s take on German giants Bayern Munich on Tuesday afternoon, in game week two of this seasons UEFA youth league group stages. Our under 19’s kicked off their campaign with a 1-1 draw with Olympiacos under testing conditions in Greece, and they’ll be hoping to go one better when they host Bayern Munich at Hotspur Way tomorrow. With a squad consisting of regulars from both our under 18 and under 23 side, Ryan Mason’s team will be feeling confident that they can get a positive result on the board. The opposition have some very talented youngsters in their ranks furthermore, Bayern are doing well in their domestic league. Danny Schwarz’s side occupy second place in the under 19 Bundesliga after picking up an impressive 14 points from their opening seven matches. Some of the Bayern Munich players to look out for tomorrow afternoon include goalkeeper Lukas Schneller, defender Bright Akwo Arrey-Mbi,  goal scoring midfielder Malik Tillman and centre forward David Halbich. The pick of those listed players is the inform Malik Tillman who has already scored four goals in Bayern’s domestic league this season. Bayern Munich have a renowned academy set up and I would expect them to play an attacking brand of football, like their first team. The German club drew their first group game 0-0 against Serbian side Crvena Zvezda, and like Spurs they’ll be hoping to get their first win of the European campaign on the board tomorrow. It will be interesting to see if Ryan Mason makes many changes from that 1-1 draw with Olympiacos. It will also be interesting to see if Troy Parrott starts again for our under 19’s. The 17 year old Irish striker has been training exclusively with the Spurs senior team this season however, Mason’s side could definitely do with him against Bayern Munich tomorrow. I am anticipating a very tough match for Spurs and it could be the quality of somebody like Troy Parrott who sways the game in Spurs’ favour. I shall be reporting on the game but for those unable to attend, it is being shown live on BT Sport. I would like to wish Ryan Mason’s side all the very best of luck for what promises to be a fascinating and very closely fought contest.

My predicted lineup: (4-2-3-1) Oluwayemi, Lyons-Foster, Binks, Lusala, Bowden (c), Maghoma, Markanday, Richards, Clarke, Parrott.

Subs from: Kurylowicz, Cesay, White, Robson, Whittaker, Asante, Etete.

Injured/unavailable: Dennis Cirkin, Michael Craig.

Doubtful: Jeremy Kyezu, Matthew Craig, Nile John, J’Neil Bennett.

Previous meeting: N/A.

My score prediction: Spurs 3-2.

My one to watch: Bayern Munich’s goal scoring midfielder Malik Tillman who has already found the back of the net on four occasions in the under 19 Bundesliga this season. Tillman is definitely a player to keep a close eye on tomorrow.

Spurs under 23’s 1-4 Brighton & Hove Albion: (match report)

After suffering a disappointing 4-0 defeat to Blackburn Rovers earlier in the week, our under 23’s looked to respond when they took on Brighton at the AMEX stadium on Friday night, in their latest PL2 game. Wayne Burnett’s side put in a decent first half performance and after some good early passing moves Spurs took the lead through the potent Rodel Richards. However, Ryan Longman cancelled Spurs’ opener before halftime. I don’t know exactly what it was but Spurs seemed to fade away during the second half, in similar fashion to the Blackburn game. Brighton hit three goals without reply and Spurs lacked urgency and were unable to mount any sort of fight back, as they lost 4-1. Wayne Burnett’s side lined up in their usual 4-2-3-1 formation on Friday night as Belgian goalkeeper Jonathan De Bie was handed a rare start in goal. A back four consisting of Jubril Okedina, TJ Eyoma, Luis Binks and Tariq Hinds lined up in front of him. Captain Jamie Bowden and Paris Maghoma partnered up in central midfield while Phoenix Patterson and Shilow Tracey operated out on the flanks, either side of CAM Tashan Oakley-Boothe. Rodel Richards led the line for Spurs. Brighton got the game underway on a cool evening down on the south coast. After knocking it about well during the opening stages of the game, Tottenham winger Phoenix Patterson whipped an inviting cross into the Brighton box. However, the Spurs mans delivery was just missed by striker Rodel Richards before being gathered by Brighton goalkeeper Hugo Keto. After fullback Tariq Hinds had lost possession Brighton winger Ryan Longman darted into the Spurs penalty area, however, Hinds recovered well to block Longman’s resulting effort on goal. Jamie Bowden headed behind Jordan Davies’s corner kick before Luis Binks partially cleared Ryan Longman’s cross, before Jonathan De Bie gathered the ball. England under 19 international Paris Maghoma had a shot blocked by Antef Tsoungui before Jamie Bowden had a powerful low effort saved by Hugo Keto. Luis Binks continued his impressive start to the game by cutting out a good pass from Jordan Davies which was intended for Brighton striker Bojan Radulovic.

A couple of minutes later Spurs came close to taking the lead through Rodel Richards after the Spurs striker struck the crossbar. After Tariq Hinds had passed the ball to Rodel Richards inside the Brighton box, the Spurs striker turned around before powering an effort against Hugo Keto’s crossbar. A couple of minutes later Rodel Richards received Paris Maghoma’s pass before sublimely turning around Brighton captain Warren O’Hora before forcing a save out of Hugo Keto from his low effort. Spurs took the lead in the 28th minute of the game through none other than Rodel Richards. After Tashan Oakley-Boothe carried the ball well down the right flank the attacking midfielder then slipped a clever pass through to Rodel Richards down the right side of the Brighton box, Richards kept his composure in front of goal before calmly slotting the ball past Hugo Keto and into the bottom left hand corner of the goal, 1-0. Phoenix Patterson had a cross cleared away by Warren O’Hora before a good Spurs move almost resulted in them doubling their lead. After Maghoma passed the ball to Hinds the right back played a quick one two with Richards inside the Brighton box before shooting just wide of Hugo Keto’s goal. Luis Binks nodded over Phoenix Patterson’s cross before Brighton unexpectedly drew level. After receiving Jordan Davies’s pass down the right hand side of the Brighton box Ryan Longman let fly on his right foot. Longman’s powerful effort deflected off of Tariq Hinds before looping up and over Jonathan De Bie and into the back of the goal, 1-1. After receiving Jamie Bowden’s pass down the left side of the Brighton box Shilow Tracey whipped the ball across the face of Hugo Keto’s goal, before the referee Sam Allison sounded his whistle for half time. Spurs got the second half underway. Jubril Okedina had a cross gathered by Hugo Keto a couple of minutes before Brighton took the lead for the first time in the game. After coming inside from the left flank Jack Leahy whipped the ball into the Spurs box where he managed to pick out Danny Cashman who just directed the ball past Jonathan De Bie on the volley, 1-2.

After Rodel Richards had just missed Phoenix Patterson’s whipped cross inside the Brighton box, the ball came to Paris Maghoma who had made a run towards the back post but he could only volley the ball just over the crossbar, much to his disappointment. Spurs tried to respond again. After Phoenix Patterson’s cross was controlled by Rodel Richards inside the Brighton box the Spurs striker had a shot blocked by Warren O’Hora, before Tashan Oakley-Boothe had a shot on goal blocked by the same player. After receiving Danny Cashman’s pass down the right flank Ryan Longman darted past Tariq Hinds before emphatically firing the ball into the top right hand corner of Jonathan De Bie’s goal. Jubril Okedina headed Phoenix Patterson’s corner kick wide before Jamie Bowden had an effort blocked by Warren O’Hora before Phoenix Patterson had a cross gathered by Hugo Keto. A good Spurs move resulted in Tariq Hinds passing the ball to Paris Maghoma who played a one two with Rodel Richards before shooting wide. After receiving Marc Leonard’s pass Ryan Longman darted down the right side of the Brighton box before firing a low effort just wide of Jonathan De Bie’s goal. Spurs brought off Phoenix Patterson and Jamie Bowden for Dilan Markanday and Kion Etete before Brighton netted their fourth goal of the game. After Danny Cashman aggressively brought Paris Maghoma to the ground he passed the ball to Ryan Longman down the right side of the Spurs box. Longman squared the ball for substitute Lorent Tolaj to tap past Jonathan De Bie and into the back of the net, 1-4. Hugo Keto gathered Dilan Markanday’s whipped effort on goal before Maurizio Pochettino came onto replace Shilow Tracey. Pochettino nodded a deflected free kick wide of goal from Dilan Markanday before Kion Etete was shown a yellow card for barging into Brighton goalkeeper Hugo Keto and then squaring up to Brighton’s Romaric Yapi. Rodel Richards flicked on Dilan Markanday’s free kick before Maurizio Pochettino had a late shot blocked by Warren O’Hora, before the referee blew his whistle for full time, bringing to an end a disappointing night of football for Spurs.

Player reviews: 

• Jonathan De Bie: The Spurs goalkeeper didn’t make a single save on the night and he would have been disappointed to be beaten at his near post for Ryan Longman’s second goal of the game. 
• Jubril Okedina: The 18 year old put in a decent shift at right back. Okedina made some timely interceptions, and he defended relatively well against Brighton winger Jack Leahy. 
• TJ Eyoma: The RCB may not have had his greatest game but he was good in the air, and he did make some good defensive interventions.
• Luis Binks: The LCB was one of Spurs’ better players on the night. Binks did well to quell the threat of Brighton’s bullish target man Bojan Radulovic who tried his very best to bully young Binks. However, the England under 19 international stood tall and he managed to cut out a couple of dangerous Brighton attacks.
• Tariq Hinds: The left back protected his side of the pitch relatively well and he made some good blocks.
• Jamie Bowden: The CDM carried the ball well and he made some well timed interceptions. Bowden was one of Spurs’ better players on the night and he helped to keep things ticking over nicely in the middle of the park.
• Paris Maghoma: The RCM made some intelligent runs into the Brighton penalty area, and he was involved in some nice link up with the lively Rodel Richards.
• Phoenix Patterson: The right winger would switch flanks with Shilow Tracey during the first half but he struggled a little bit to get into the game despite his tremendous work rate. Patterson did however, whip some excellent crosses into the danger zone. 
• Tashan Oakley-Boothe: Although the attacking midfielder wasn’t really involved in the game in the final third, Oakley-Boothe did do well to set up Rodel Richards for his goal.
• Shilow Tracey: The left winger went on a number of good surging runs during the first half.
• Rodel Richards: My man of the match, see below.
• Dilan Markanday: Markanday came off the bench to go on a couple of decent attacking forays down the right hand side of the pitch.
• Kion Etete: The second half substitute opened up options for Spurs.
• Maurizio Pochettino: The left wingers touch was good and he was tidy with the ball during his time on the pitch.

My man of the match: Rodel Richards. The 19 year old centre forwards movement and many well timed runs were excellent on the night. The skilful Richards went on many a good mazy run. Furthermore, the Lewisham born striker struck the crossbar before going onto score a well taken goal. The first year pro threatened the Brighton defence throughout the match.

Brighton & Hove Albion: Keto, Yapi, Furlong (Leonard 68), Spong, Tsoungui, O’Hora (c), Longman, Davies, Radulovic (Tolaj 74), Cashman (Wilson 88), Leahy. Substitutes (not used): McGill, Freestone.

Spurs: De Bie, Okedina, Hinds, Bowden (c) (Etete 79), Eyoma, Binks, Patterson (Markanday 73), Maghoma, Richards, Oakley-Boothe, Tracey (Pochettino 84). Substitutes (not used): Oluwayemi, Lyons-Foster.

Goals: Brighton – Longman 37, 62, Longman 48, Tolaj 80; Spurs – Richards 28.

Yellow cards: Brighton – Leahy 85, Yapi 87; Spurs – Etete 87, Eyoma 90+4.

Referee: Sam Allison.

Venue: Amex Stadium, Brighton.

Spurs under 23’s statistics: 

Goals: Rodel Richards – 2

Troy Parrott – 2

Kazaiah Sterling – 2

Harvey White – 2

Tashan Oakley-Boothe – 1

Shilow Tracey – 1

Paris Maghoma – 1

Phoenix Patterson – 1

Armando Shashoua – 1

Dilan Markanday – 1

Assists: Shilow Tracey – 5

Tashan Oakley-Boothe – 2

Jamie Bowden – 1

Tariq Hinds – 1

Paris Maghoma – 1

Kazaiah Sterling – 1

Dilan Markanday – 1

Armando Shashoua -1

Clean sheets: Brandon Austin – 1

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

Our under 18’s begin this seasons premier league cup campaign on Saturday morning when they take on West Ham at Little Heath, in their first group game of the competition. Matt Taylor’s side recorded an impressive 2-0 league win over Southampton last Saturday and they’ll be hoping to build on that victory tomorrow by getting off to the perfect start in the competition. We lost 3-2 to the ‘ Hammers ‘ in a league game less than two weeks ago. That game was a typical London derby, with plenty of meaty challenges and feistiness however, Spurs came up short on that day and they lost a game in which was very end to end. West Ham occupy fourth spot in the under 18 premier league south, having won three and drawn two of their six league games. Some of the ‘ Hammers ‘ young attacking talents to look out for tomorrow include centre forward Veron Parkes, midfielder Sebastian Nebyla and attacking fullback Samuel Caiger. Other players to look out for is towering centre half Will Greenidge, midfielder Lennon Peake and winger Kamarai Simon-Swyer. West Ham seemed to play with a lot of width during our last meeting with them. Furthermore, the ‘ Hammers ‘ were attacking and positive in their all round play.  With this being a cup game I would expect Matt Taylor to rotate his squad and possibly play players who haven’t had a lot of minutes this season. Namely Malachi Walcott and Yago Alonso. Also, the fact that our under 19’s have an important UEFA youth league game against Bayern Munich on Tuesday could mean that some players are rested for the trip to east London. I wish all of our lads all the very best of luck for tomorrow’s cup match, let’s hope that we can avenge the other weeks narrow defeat to our London rivals. Unfortunately and very unusually for me, I will be unable to report on tomorrow’s game as it doesn’t really leave me enough time to get to the main game afterwards.

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

Subs from: Lo-Tutala, Mundle, John, Bennett, Scarlett.

Injured/unavailable: Dennis Cirkin, Michael Craig.

Doubtful: Jeremy Kyezu, Matthew Craig, Nile John, J’Neil Bennett.

Previous meeting: Spurs 2-3.

My score prediction: Spurs 3-1.

My one to watch: The ‘ Hammers ‘ top scorer last season with eight goals, Veron Parkes. The second year scholar is a physical player and he could prove to be a handful for the Spurs defence tomorrow. Parkes scored against us in that 3-2 defeat earlier this month.

Spurs under 23’s versus Brighton & Hove Albion: (match preview)

(This photograph is from Tottenham Hotspur FC).

After suffering a disappointing 4-0 defeat to Blackburn Rovers earlier in the week, Wayne Burnett’s development side will be looking to make a statement when they take on Brighton & Hove Albion on Friday evening, at the AMEX stadium. Spurs were totally dominated by Blackburn in the rain on Monday night, and Burnett’s side struggled to offer much of an attacking threat in the absence of any recognised strikers. Our under 23’s have not won a game since August so it is imperative that they get a positive result on the board against Brighton tomorrow night. Last season we drew 1-1 to Brighton at home before later losing 2-0 to them down on the south coast. The ‘ Seagulls ‘ who are managed by Simon Rusk have had a mixed start to the new PL2 season. Brighton currently occupy eight spot in the division one table having won two of their opening six league games. Some of Brighton’s standout players include centre forward Bojan Radulovic, forward Ryan Longman, midfielder Danny Cashman, winger Taylor Richards and Irish central defender Warren O’Hora. Since Graham Potter took over Brighton’s first team they seem to be playing a brand of attacking football so I would expect the ‘ Seagulls ‘ under 23’s to play in a similar fashion on Friday night. I would imagine that there will be wholesale changes in the Spurs team for tomorrow’s game after the disappointing fashion of Monday nights defeat to Blackburn. Perhaps we might see a couple of players from the under 18’s make the step up for this game. Also the fact that our under 19’s have a game on Tuesday could also mean that some players are rested for tomorrow’s game. As always I shall be in attendance, and my in-depth match report of the game will be out at some point over the weekend. I wish all of our lads the very best of luck for this important game. 

My predicted lineup: (4-2-3-1) Austin, Okedina, Eyoma (c), Dinzeyi, Hinds, White, Bowden, Markanday, Maghoma, Patterson, Tracey.

Subs from: Oluwayemi, Binks, Clarke, Pochettino, Etete.

Injured/unavailable: Dennis Cirkin, Jeremie Mukendi.

Doubtful: Maxwell Statham, Maximus Tainio, Jonathan De Bie, J’Neil Bennett, Armando Shashoua, Rodel Richards.

Previous meeting: Spurs 0-2.

My score prediction: Spurs 2-1.

My one to watch: Brighton’s Serbian striker Bojan Radulovic who has netted twice from four PL2 appearances this season.

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

Our under 23’s took on Blackburn Rovers in game week six of the PL2 season on Monday night, at the Leyland County ground. Despite starting Monday’s game brightly Wayne Burnett’s side faded away during large chunks of the first half and they conceded a goal on 22 minutes through 25 year old Dominic Samuel. The second half was much the same story. After starting the half quite well Spurs lost their composure once again and a very solid Blackburn side punished them for it. Dominic Samuel scored his and Blackburn’s second of the game before Stefan Mols added a third. Samuel would later go onto score a hat-trick and put Blackburn 4-0 up, the result would remain unchanged. It was a hugely disappointing night for Burnett’s side who were missing a recognised striker. Spurs lined up in their usual 4-2-3-1 formation as Brandon Austin returned in goal. A back four made up of Tariq Hinds, Jonathan Dinzeyi, Brooklyn Lyons-Foster and Harvey White lined up in front of him. Paris Maghoma and captain Jamie Bowden partnered up in central midfield while Dilan Markanday and Shilow Tracey operated out on the flanks, either side of CAM Tashan Oakley-Boothe. Phoenix Patterson led the line for Spurs. Blackburn got the game underway on a wet and windy night in Leyland. Spurs started the game brightly and after Tashan Oakley-Boothe won a free kick in Harvey White range on the edge of the Blackburn box, the Spurs left back unsurprisingly elected to take it. However, White’s resulting effort flew straight into the Blackburn wall. After running forward with the ball at his feet, Paris Maghoma tried his luck from range with a powerful dipping effort which, was saved by Blackburn goalkeeper Joe Hilton. Tashan Oakley-Boothe then had a low cross cleared behind for a corner kick by Blackburn captain Joe Grayson. Harvey White’s resulting corner kick was flicked against Joe Grayson by Jonathan Dinzeyi before the ball was cleared away. At the other end of the pitch Brooklyn Lyons-Foster cleared a low cross into the Spurs box from Lewis Thompson before Jonathan Dinzeyi made a good lunging challenge on Jack Vale inside the Spurs box, to thwart a dangerous Blackburn attack.

After going on a long mazy run into the Spurs box Stefan Mols passed the ball to Joe Rankin-Costello whose resulting effort on goal was blocked by Tariq Hinds. Jonathan Dinzeyi then cleared away Lewis Thompson’s low cross before Brandon Austin managed to gather Joe Rankin-Costello’s cross as Blackburn started to really get into the game. Shortly after Brooklyn Lyons-Foster thwarted a dangerous Blackburn attack, Jamie Bowden blocked a shot from Jacob Davenport. Joe Rankin-Costello then curled an effort well wide of Brandon Austin’s goal, before Jonathan Dinzeyi misjudged Stefan Mols’ lofted pass and failed to clear it. Joe Rankin-Costello then latched onto the ball before bursting into the Spurs box and firing an effort at goal which was smartly saved at his near post by Brandon Austin. Blackburn were dominating the game. Dominic Samuel headed Lewis Thompson’s cross wide of the Spurs goal before Tariq Hinds blocked a shot from Dominic Samuel. Then in the 22nd minute of the game Blackburn took the lead. Stefan Mols’ corner kick was headed on by Sam Barnes for the lurking Dominic Samuel to tap home past the helpless Brandon Austin, 0-1. Tariq Hinds cleared a low cross from Lewis Thompson before a dangerous cross from Stefan Mols managed to evade everyone in the Spurs box. Brooklyn Lyons-Foster then cleared a cross from Charley Doyle before Stefan Mols’ corner kick was headed wide at the back post by Joe Rankin-Costello. Rankin-Costello then had a shot blocked by Jonathan Dinzeyi before Rankin-Costello almost latched onto Charley Doyle’s cross inside the Spurs box. A good Spurs move resulted in Shilow Tracey passing the ball to Phoenix Patterson who gave it to Tariq Hinds. The Tottenham right back then gave the ball back to Tracey on the edge of the Blackburn box, but his resulting shot on goal was blocked by Joe Grayson. Spurs goalkeeper Brandon Austin got lucky at the other end of the pitch after he fumbled Stefan Mols’ powerful low cross. Jonathan Dinzeyi then cleared a cross from the same player.

After embarking on a mazy run into the Spurs box Jack Vale looked as if he was about to have a pop on goal but he lost control and let the ball run into the arms of Brandon Austin. The referee sounded his whistle for half time shortly afterwards. Spurs got the game back underway. Tariq Hinds’ cross was gathered by Joe Hilton with Paris Maghoma running in at the back post. Spurs were knocking the ball around the park well during the opening stages of the first half. After advancing forward through the middle of the park Paris Maghoma played a nice pass through to Phoenix Patterson down the left side of the Blackburn box however, his powerful low effort from a tight angle was saved by Joe Hilton. Jamie Bowden’s powerful effort from long range was parried by Hilton before Blackburn doubled their advantage. Jacob Davenport’s long pass towards Dominic Samuel was met by the Blackburn striker on the edge of the Spurs box as Brandon Austin came rushing out of his penalty area. However, the Spurs goalkeeper collided with Tariq Hinds, and Samuel was allowed to run through into the Spurs box before slotting the ball into the empty net, 0-2. Harvey White had a free kick cleared away by Sam Barnes. After Jack Vale passed the ball to Stefan Mols down the right flank the Spaniard pumped a cross into the Spurs box which was cleared away by Jonathan Dinzeyi. Brandon Austin managed to hold Jack Vale’s thumping effort from long range before Brad Lyons whipped a dangerous low cross across the face of the Spurs goal. Maurizio Pochettino came onto replace Phoenix Patterson as Shilow Tracey went up top. Unfortunately Blackburn extended their lead through Stefan Mols. After playing a quick one two with Jack Vale inside the Spurs box, Mols calmly tucked the ball into the left hand corner of the goal, 0-3. Shortly after the restart Stefan Mols curled an effort narrowly wide of Brandon Austin’s goal from the edge of the Spurs box. Centre half Jonathan Dinzeyi was shown a yellow card for a challenge on Brad Lyons. Dominic Samuel headed over Joe Rankin-Costello’s cross before Jubril Okedina came onto replace Jonathan Dinzeyi.

After receiving Stefan Mols’ pass Jack Vale shot wide of Brandon Austin’s goal, before Maurizio Pochettino had a cross gathered by Joe Hilton. Blackburn made it 4-0 shortly afterwards. After receiving Jack Vale’s pass on the edge of the Spurs box, Dominic Samuel fired a low effort into the bottom right hand corner of Brandon Austin’s goal despite the Spurs goalkeeper managing to get a hand to the ball, 0-4. Jamie Bowden’s late challenge on Jacob Davenport led to a coming together between both sets of players before the Tottenham midfielder was shown a yellow card by the referee. Paris Maghoma fired Harvey White’s short free kick into the side netting of Joe Hilton’s goal before Dominic Samuel shot an effort wide of goal from inside the Spurs box. Then in the dying moments of the game Stefan Mols received Charley Doyle’s pass inside the Spurs box before shooting wide of goal. The referee sounded his whistle for full time a couple of moments later, bringing to an end a very disappointing night for Spurs. Spurs’ next game is on Friday evening when they face Brighton & Hove Albion at the AMEX stadium.

Player reviews: 

• Brandon Austin: The Spurs goalkeeper made two smart saves on Monday night however, he wouldn’t have been happy with the mix up that occurred between him and Tariq Hinds which led to Blackburn’s second goal of the game.
• Tariq Hinds: The right back generally had a solid game and he protected his side of the pitch well. Hinds made several important blocks. 
• Jonathan Dinzeyi: The RCB did have some difficult moments in the game, but he did make a very good early challenge on Jack Vale inside the Spurs penalty area during the first half. 
• Brooklyn Lyons-Foster: The LCB had a particularly strong first half before enduring a more difficult second half alongside Jonathan Dinzeyi. Lyons-Foster cut out a couple of good Blackburn attacks during the first half. 
• Harvey White: The makeshift left back was good on the ball and decent defensively.
• Paris Maghoma: My man of the match, see below. 
• Jamie Bowden: Tenacious and effective at breaking up play and protecting the Spurs defence. Young Bowden’s passing was good and he kept things ticking over nicely in the middle of the park. Furthermore, captain Bowden made some meaty challenges. Along with Maghoma he was one of Spurs’ best players on the night.
• Dilan Markanday: Despite his best efforts the wide man never really got into the game. Markanday did track back excellently and he helped out Tariq Hinds defensively.
• Tashan Oakley-Boothe: The CAM never really managed to get into the game despite his best efforts.
• Shilow Tracey: The left winger struggled to get into the game and he didn’t get much service down the left flank. Tracey would later go onto play up top after Patterson was substituted during the second half. 
• Phoenix Patterson: The makeshift centre forward made some intelligent runs and he would often drop deep to receive the ball before bringing it forward. However, Patterson just didn’t get the service on the night.
• Maurizio Pochettino: The right winger whipped a couple of decent crosses into the Blackburn box during his time on the pitch.
• Jubril Okedina: The defender filled in at RCB for the last 15 minutes of the game.

My man of the match: Central midfielder Paris Maghoma was just about the only Spurs player who was trying different things to attempt to break down the Blackburn defence. Maghoma went on some good surging forward runs through the middle of the pitch. In addition the England under 19 international tested Joe Hilton early on with a good effort on goal before later setting up a decent goal scoring chance for Phoenix Patterson during the second half. Maghoma was tenacious alongside Bowden and he worked hard to break up play and link defence with attack. The 18 year old also made some good runs into the Blackburn penalty area. It was an all round impressive performance from the first year pro.

 Blackburn: Hilton, Doyle, Thompson, Davenport, Barnes, Grayson (c), Mols, Lyons, Samuel, Vale, Rankin-Costello. Substitutes (not used): Eastham, White, Whitehall, Brennan, Boyomo.

Spurs: Austin, Hinds, White, Bowden (c), Dinzeyi (Okedina 75), Lyons-Foster, Markanday, Maghoma, Patterson (Pochettino 68), Oakley-Boothe, Tracey. Substitutes (not used): Oluwayemi, Eyoma.

Goals: Rovers – Samuel 23, 57, 83, Mols 69.

Yellow cards: Rovers – Grayson 86, Rankin-Costello 87; Spurs – Dinzeyi 73, 

Bowden 86.

Referee: Steven Copeland.

Venue: The County Ground, Leyland.

Spurs under 23’s statistics: 

Goals: Troy Parrott – 2

Kazaiah Sterling – 2

Harvey White – 2

Tashan Oakley-Boothe – 1

Shilow Tracey – 1

Paris Maghoma – 1

Rodel Richards – 1

Phoenix Patterson – 1

Armando Shashoua – 1

Dilan Markanday – 1

Assists: Shilow Tracey – 5

Jamie Bowden – 1

Tariq Hinds – 1

Paris Maghoma – 1

Kazaiah Sterling – 1

Dilan Markanday – 1

Tashan Oakley-Boothe – 1

Armando Shashoua -1

Clean sheets: Brandon Austin – 1