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

Our under 18’s contested a hugely entertaining cup match up in Darlington on Saturday morning as Matt Wells side took on Middlesbrough at their Rockliffe Park training ground, in the Premier League under 18 cup. It was another important cup game for Matt Wells unbeaten under 18 side, who only needed a point to progress to the quarter finals of the competition as one of the two best placed runners up. And despite the fact that Spurs had made wholesale changes from their FA youth cup win against Millwall in midweek, Wells still put out a strong Tottenham team which was more than capable of defeating ‘ The Boro ’ who had conceded 12 goals from their last two matches in all competitions. Rotation made by Matt Wells and the Tottenham coaching staff resulted in Kacper Kurylowicz making his debut for the under 18 side between the sticks, while rare starts were also handed out to Chay Cooper and Maurizio Pochettino. Spurs dominated large periods of Saturdays 2-2 draw and they were unarguably the better side. However, Mark Tinkler’s Middlesbrough were extremely well organised and their Pulis-esque direct style of play did manage to unsettle our lads throughout the match. After a good start to the game Spurs managed to create a number of good chances to take the lead but it was ‘ The Boro’ who took the lead against the run of play through fullback Daniel Dodds. Spurs responded well and after showing good feet Rodel Richards slotted Spurs level before halftime. Middlesbrough improved during the second half and after enjoying a good spell in the game, they regained their lead courtesy of young Spaniard Alberto Balde’s sweetly struck volley. As a result of this Matt Wells made a double substitution, bringing on Paris Maghoma and Rayan Clarke in an attempt to draw Spurs level once again. And after battling hard to break down the rigid Middlesbrough defence, Spurs managed to find an equaliser through substitute Rayan Clarke’s delicious curling effort. The home side were reduced to ten men shortly afterwards when Cain Sykes was sent off off after picking up his second yellow card of the game. But despite the numerical advantage Spurs were unable to find the winner with Tinkler’s youngsters playing with nine men behind the ball at all times. 

It was another good performance from Spurs who managed to get that all important point to book their place in the quarterfinals of the competition. Potential opponents include Manchester United, Manchester City, Liverpool and Everton. Spurs lined up in the familiar 4-2-3-1 formation under the morning sun on Saturday. First year scholar and goalkeeper Kacper Kurylowicz made his first appearance for the under 18 side while a back four of Tainio, Okedina, Binks and Cirkin lined up in front of him. Captain Harvey White (his first time skippering the under 18 side) and Elliot Thorpe started in central midfield due to the absence of Armando Shashoua who suffered a studded thigh against Millwall earlier in the week. Maurizio Pochettino and Chay Cooper operated out on the flanks with Dilan Markanday either side of them playing in the hole. And 18 year old centre forward Rodel Richards led the line for the young Lilywhites. Middlesbrough were not giving out team sheets on Saturday so unfortunately a lot of the Middlesbrough players were unidentifiable and will have to be referred to by their numbers. Spurs got the game underway on a glorious sunny morning at Rockliffe Park. And Matt Wells side started the game really well, and they could have taken the lead inside the opening five minutes of the match. A perfect long pass from Luis Binks at the back managed to pick out Dilan Markanday on the right flank and the tricky 17 year old managed to beat Middlesbrough’s left back before crossing for Cooper who had made a run towards the back post. However, with the goal gaping the 17 year old couldn’t keep his header down and he ended up heading narrowly over. Middlesbrough responded at the other end through the speedy Alberto Balde who received Daniel Dodds pass down the left side of the Tottenham penalty area. However, the former Portadown schoolboys powerful low effort, was saved well by the feet of Kurylowicz. Middlesbrough were pumping the ball into the danger zone at every opportunity and Luis Binks managed to effectively clear Gabriel McGill’s cross from the right wing. 

The alert Kacper Kurylowicz did well a couple of minutes later to read number 3’s through ball to McGill which outwitted the Spurs defence, but the teenager from Milton Keynes came rushing out of his box to clear the ball. Middlesbrough were growing into the game and after the potent Balde went on a surging run down the left flank, the winger squared the ball to McGill inside the danger zone, but the the striker missed the ball and it was picked up by number 7 on the edge of the box. However, ‘ The Boro ’ wingers powerful strike was blocked by Elliot Thorpe who went down injured and had to receive treatment from the medical staff. After winning a corner kick Maurizio Pochettino played a short pass to Markanday who gave the ball back to the winger. Pochettino then passed the ball to Thorpe on the edge of the penalty area, but his first time curling effort flashed just wide of Solomon Brynn’s goal. And it was straight from the resulting Middlesbrough attack that the home side took a slightly unexpected lead. Mark Tinkler’s side had caught Spurs out down the left flank, as number 7 advanced on a galavanting run down the channel, before passing the ball to Daniel Dodds down the right side of the penalty area. The fullback managed to shift away from Okedina before firing a low effort across the diving Kurylowicz and into the far corner of the goal from a tight angle, 0-1. Spurs went on a good move shortly after the restart, White passed the ball to Thorpe who gave it to Richards and then Cooper out on the left wing. However, his whipped cross which was intended for Pochettino who was ghosting in at the back post was smothered by Brynn. Tinkler’s side went down the other end of the pitch, number 6 gave the ball to Balde on the left flank and he passed the ball down the line for number 3 who whipped a dangerous ball across the face of Kurylowicz’s goal. The Spurs goalkeeper comfortably gathered Daniel Dodds’ strike from long range a couple of minutes later. However, Matt Wells side always maintained their high intensity and they managed to draw level a couple of minutes later through Rodel Richards.

Captain Harvey White passed the ball to Thorpe who threaded a clever pass through to Richards on the edge of the Middlesbrough penalty area. The Spurs forward showed good feet as he entered the box, and he did well to jink away from Daniel Dodds and Middlesbrough’s number 5, before calmly slotting the ball into the bottom left hand corner of Brynn’s goal, 1-1. Luis Binks could be seen claiming a penalty for Spurs shortly after the restart, after Harvey White’s corner kick appeared to be handled by Middlesbrough’s number 4 inside the penalty area. This had become a very open game of football despite the fact that Spurs were dominating possession. Daniel Dodds played a pass down the line to Cain Sykes on the right wing. Sykes cut inside onto his left foot on the edge of the penalty before firing over Kurylowicz’s crossbar. A laser like long pass from Luis Binks managed to pick out Pochettino on the right flank a couple of minutes later. However, Pochettino’s resulting ball into the penalty area ended up bouncing off of Richards who was unable to get the ball under control. Markanday managed to work ‘ The Boro ’ defence shortly afterwards when he received Tainio’s pass down the right hand side of the Middlesbrough penalty area. Markanday’s first touch was sublime but after cutting inside onto his left foot he ended up curling an effort well over Brynn’s crossbar. The defensively flawless Luis Binks made a crucial sliding challenge to thwart a dangerous Middlesbrough attack shortly afterwards. Middlesbrough’s left back had played a perfectly weighted defence splitting pass beyond the Tottenham back line to set number 10 racing through on goal. However, Binks did excellently well to get back before making a superb inch perfect sliding challenge on their number 10 inside the box, to win the ball off of him and and get it clear. Spurs went on a promising attack down the other end after Tainio passed the ball to Markanday, he beat two Middlesbrough players before surging towards the box and forcing a good stop from Brynn to deny his curling effort on goal. However, the Middlesbrough goalkeeper couldn’t hold the ball and it was pounced upon by Richards who quickly gave the ball to Pochettino, who was quickly closed down by number 5 who prevented him from getting his shot away.

Luis Binks conceded a free kick on the edge of the Tottenham penalty area right on the stroke of halftime following a supposed foul on McGill. However, Cain Sykes resulting effort deflected off of Tainio in the Spurs wall before Kurylowicz made the save. Middlesbrough got the second half underway and Mark Tinkler’s side had started the half well. Harvey White managed to clear number 3’s delivery from a free kick, before Middlesbrough defender number 6 went on a surging run through the middle of the pitch before firing an effort well wide of the mark. Kacper Kurylowicz did well to gather the same players cross a couple of moments later. And ‘ The Boro ’ player continued to cause Spurs problems after he took the ball off of Cooper on the right wing before whipping a danger ball across the face of the Tottenham goal, which Balde came close to meeting at the back post. And once again the Middlesbrough player threatened the Spurs defence this time after receiving number 3’s pass inside the Spurs box. However, his effort on the turn was well blocked by Cirkin who threw himself in front of the ball. Cirkin then managed to block the Middlesbrough’s defenders cross a couple of minutes later which was intended for McGill inside the box. Middlesbrough were enjoying a really good spell in the game and they continued to come at the Spurs defence. A fast attacking move resulted in number 3 passing the ball to McGill and then to number 10 who gave it to Balde on the edge of the Tottenham penalty area. However, the wingers effort on the edge of the box was well saved by the diving Kurylowicz. Spurs responded down the other end through Dennis Cirkin who after receiving Rodel Richards pass blazed an effort over Solomon Brynn’s crossbar from long range. Alberto Balde came close to regaining the lead for Middlesbrough at the other end after he received number 3’s pass down the left side of the Tottenham box. Balde then cut inside Jubril Okedina before seeing his powerful effort on goal blocked behind for a corner kick by Tainio. And it was from the resulting corner kick that Middlesbrough regained the lead.

Number 7’s corner was played short to Daniel Dodds who crossed the ball for number 6 inside the penalty area. The Middlesbrough defenders header was blocked away by Cirkin but the ball ended up coming out to Balde on the edge of the box. The young Spaniard caught the ball so sweetly on the volley and his unstoppable thunderbolt flew past Kurylowicz and into the middle of the goal, 1-2. Captain Harvey White could be heard frantically urging his teammates on in the aftermath of the goal. Matt Wells responsed by sending on Rayan Clarke and Paris Maghoma who replaced Elliott Thorpe and Maurizio Pochettino. Harvey White had a corner kick cleared by number 6 at his near post before the Spurs captain got on the end of Rayan Clarke’s corner a couple of minutes later. White passed the ball to Richards inside the box but the Tottenham strikers resulting effort was blocked by Daniel Dodds. Dilan Markanday then had an effort blocked by number 4 as Spurs upped their tempo as they went in search of that all important equaliser, as the home side dropped deeper. Kacper Kurylowicz was called into action to deny Alberto Balde after the left winger darted into the Tottenham penalty area, after receiving number 6’s pass, before having his powerful low effort saved by the feet of the Spurs goalkeeper before Binks passed the loose ball back into the hands of Kurylowicz. This resulted in a number of Middlesbrough players protesting to the referee that Binks had made the back pass. After playing with a higher intensity following the introduction of Paris Maghoma and Rayan Clarke, Matt Wells side managed to score an all important leveller through Clarke. The goal had been created by Dilan Markanday who after picking the ball up inside his own half on the right flank, somehow managed to shrug off number 3’s flying challenge on him before continuing down the wing. Markanday travelled forward down the channel on one of his jinking runs before cutting inside and finding Clarke down the left side of the box with a good pass. Rayan Clarke did a couple of step overs before cutting inside and bending a powerful effort into the top right hand corner of Brynn’s goal, 2-2.

Maxwell Statham came on for Maximus Tainio at right back to bolster the Spurs defence for the final stages of the game. Spurs received a boost after Cain Sykes was dismissed after receiving his second yellow card of the game for a nasty challenge on Rayan Clarke down the left wing. Paris Maghoma then had a dangerous cross cut out by number 12 before Clarke could meet it at the back post inside the Middlesbrough box. Tinkler’s side were time wasting during the final moments of the game and in the end both sides were content to settle for a draw. It was a good performance from Matt Wells lads a number of whom haven’t been regular starters for the side this season. We defended well and had Cain Sykes have been sent off ten minutes earlier then we would have got the win. It was another positive result and performance from unbeaten Tottenham Hotspur to cap off an excellent 2018. I would like to wish Matt Wells and his under 18 side a very happy Christmas and I hope that they enjoy their winter break. Our under 18’s next game isn’t until Saturday the 5th of January, that is a league game against Swansea City at Hotspur Way.

• Kacper Kurylowicz: The first year scholar had an excellent game on his debut for our under 18 side. Kurylowicz made five saves in total against Middlesbrough and he impressed with his shot stopping, distribution and vocalness on the pitch. The 17 year old made a string of important stops, two of which were made with his feet to deny ‘ The Boro ’ from close range including an excellent reaction save to deny Alberto Balde early on in the game. Kurylowicz dealt well with crosses and set pieces, and I thought that he read the game well.
• Maximus Tainio: The Finland under 19 international defended solidly during his 80 minutes on the pitch. Tainio who operated at right back had the tough task of defending against Middlesbrough’s speedy winger Alberto Balde, but he dealt with the threat posed by Balde well. Tainio got up and down the flank well, and he linked up well with Pochettino down that side of the pitch. 
• Jubril Okedina: Operating at RCB Jubril Okedina formed a particularly strong partnership with Luis Binks at centre back. The second year scholar put in another good performance for our under 18’s and he was impressive all round. Okedina was excellent in the air and calm under pressure, and the 18 year old dealt well with the threat of Middlesbrough centre forward Gabriel McGill.
• Luis Binks: My motm, see below.
• Dennis Cirkin: It was another strong defensive performance from the 16 year old left back who looked very assured against Middlesbrough on Saturday. Cirkin kept Middlesbrough’s number 7 in check for the majority of the match and he combined his defensive duties well with his many attacking forays down the right channel. The Dubliner made a number of important blocks and interceptions.
• Harvey White: Captaining our under 18’s for the first time this season, central midfielder Harvey White was domineering in the middle of the park in Saturday’s 2-2 draw. White moved the ball around well and he made some nice passes from midfield. In addition the 17 year old helped to break up play and recycle possession. White motivated his team mates well and he was a good leader on the field.
• Elliot Thorpe: Like White, Elliot Thorpe had a good game in central midfield and he used the ball well. Thorpe went on some nice runs through the middle of the park and he made some nice crisp passes. The 18 year old was neat and tidy but he was positive in possession and moved around well and tracked back after him. Thorpe set up Rodel Richards goal for our first of the game with a clever pass.
• Maurizio Pochettino: The 17 year old started out on the right wing where he made a positive impression on the game. Pochettino whipped some good crosses into the danger zone.
• Dilan Markanday: Despite starting the match in the hole Markanday played out on the right wing for the final 25 or so minutes of the game. Markanday was superb against Middlesbrough and he played a big part in helping us to secure that all important point. He dazzled with his clever runs through the middle and out on the flan, and he was by far our most potent attacking player. The 17 year old created numerous chances for his teammates and he whipped some delightful crosses into the Middlesbrough box. However, it was his excellent balance and intelligent weaving runs at the defence which were so effective. Markanday troubled the Middlesbrough defence for large period of the game and he would often look to test ‘ The Boro ’ goalkeeper Solomon Brynn. The second year scholar did ever so well to create substitute Rayan Clarke’s equaliser. Not only did Markanday do a fantastic job at staying on his feet after being challenged by the Middlesbrough left back he then went on a darting run down the right flank before cutting inside and showing the composure to pick out Clarke inside the box.
• Chay Cooper: Cooper operated on the left flank for what was only his third appearance of the season for Matt Wells side. Cooper impressed out wide although he would later fill in at CM. He was tricky and direct and he was always looking to work Middlesbrough right back David Dodds. The 17 year old came so close to opening the scoring after heading Markanday’s cross narrowly over right at the beginning of the first half. 
• Rodel Richards: The 18 year old forward led the line well for Spurs on Saturday and he made some good runs in and behind the Middlesbrough defence. Working hard to create space and to press the defenders Richards was rewarded with a well deserved goal which he took well to make it 1-1.
• Rayan Clarke: After coming on in the 64th minute of the game to replace Pochettino, superb sub Rayan Clarke helped to sway the game in Spurs’ favour with his positive running and willingness to take players on. Clarke went on a number of searing runs down the left wing and he often had the beating of David Dodds. The 17 year netted our late leveller in superb style after he picked the up down the left side of the Middlesbrough penalty area before stepping inside and curling an unstoppable effort into the top right hand corner of Solomon Brynn’s goal. That was Clarke’s seventh goal of the campaign.
• Paris Maghoma: The development squad regular came off the bench to help Spurs fightback to secure a point up in County Durham. Maghoma played as a CAM and he showed a willingness to drive at the Middlesbrough players which resulted in us opening up their defence. Maghoma worked hard and he made some nice passes and crosses. He was unselfish and always looking to create for the wide men Dilan Markanday and Rayan Clarke. The 17 year old brought a positive energy to the game.
• Maxwell Statham: The 18 year old came on for the last ten minutes of the match to replace Tainio at right back, and Statham did a good job at strengthening the Spurs defence. Statham made a couple of good headed clearances during his time on the pitch.

My man of the match: Luis Binks. The elegant defender performed his duties diligently at centre half against Middlesbrough on Saturday. Binks operated at LCB alongside Okedina in a back four, and I for one thought that the England under 18 international was flawless. I paid particularly close attention to Binks throughout the match and I was so impressed by how he defended and how the 17 year old read the game and anticipated dangerous situations. It was a very commanding performance from Luis who never seemed to put a foot wrong. Binks was excellent in the air and while he was strong in the challenge the Alderweireld-esque teenager never made rash decisions. He effectively kept Middlesbrough’s centre forward Gabriel McGill out of the game and he prevented him from making runs in and behind the Spurs defence. Binks made some really important defensive interventions and he was so calm whenever he did so. The way he would stepped inside or across his man to make an interception was always done with such assuredness. The centre half helped to cut out some dangerous Middlesbrough attacks but his most impressive piece of defending was a perfectly timed sliding challenge inside the Tottenham penalty area to win the ball off of Middlesbrough’s number 10, after he had managed to go through on goal, the challenge was executed superbly by the Spurs man. Furthermore, Binks’ excellent laser like passes to Pochettino and Cooper out on the flanks was equally as impressive. He always looked so classy and so composed in what ever he was doing on the pitch.

Spurs: Kurylowicz, Tainio (Statham 80), Cirkin, White (c), Okedina, Binks, Pochettino (Clarke 64), Thorpe (Maghoma 64), Richards, Markanday, Cooper.

Substitute (not used): Oluwayemi.

Spurs under 18’s statistics 2018/19:

Goals scored: Troy Parrott – 10

Dilan Markanday – 7

Rayan Clarke – 7

J’Neil Bennett – 6

Armando Shashoua – 4

Harvey White – 4

Rodel Richards – 4

Luis Binks – 3

Paris Maghoma – 2

Dennis Cirkin – 2

Jeremie Mukendi – 2

Brooklyn Lyons-Foster – 2

Phoenix Patterson – 2

Maurizio Pochettino – 1

Jubril Okedina – 1

Assists: Harvey White – 10

Armando Shashoua – 9

Jamie Bowden – 5

Phoenix Patterson – 4

Rayan Clarke – 4

Troy Parrott – 4

Dilan Markanday – 3

Brooklyn Lyons-Foster – 2

Dennis Cirkin – 2

J’Neil Bennett – 2

Rodel Richards – 2

Paris Maghoma – 1

Maurizio Pochettino – 1

Malachi Walcott – 1

Luis Binks – 1

Rafferty Pedder – 1

Maxwell Statham – 1

Jeremie Mukendi – 1

Elliot Thorpe – 1

Clean sheets: Joshua Oluwayemi – 4

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

Our under 18’s will face Middlesbrough tomorrow up in Darlington as Matt Wells side prepare to play their last game of 2018. On a high from Monday’s dramatic FA youth cup third round win against Millwall at the Den, Matt Wells unbeaten side will be hoping that they can maintain their impressive record when they face Middlesbrough in the under 18 premier league cup tomorrow, by booking their place in the knockout stages of the competition. Saturday mornings match is the Group A decider, with both teams having already picked up six points from their first two matches, a draw would be enough to send both sides through to the next round. However, both managers will want their team to win this game and top the group. The possible scenarios for Spurs are getting the win tomorrow and topping the group, drawing the game and going through to the knockout stages, or even losing by a small margin would also see them go through as one of the two best placed runners up. However, if Spurs were to lose by a big scoreline to the Teeside club then it could open the door for other runners up Blackburn and Chelsea. Our under 18’s reached the final of this competition last season and on their current form they must be one of the favourites to win the cup. After winning our first two group games against both Wolves and Swansea respectively, Matt Wells side will want to put the icing on the cake by progressing from the group as group winners. Middlesbrough play in the Northern Division of the under 18 premier league and as a result of this both sides rarely meet one another. The last time we met ‘ The Boro ’ was back in the spring of 2017, that day Spurs ran out 3-1 winners at Rockliffe Park. Our captain Armando Shashoua appeared to be studded quite badly by one of the Millwall players on Monday and he could well miss out on Saturday’s cup match at Rockliffe Park. Middlesbrough who are managed by Mark Tinkler have enjoyed a mixed start to to the 2018/19 season.

After ten league matches Middlesbrough occupy sixth spot in the northern league and they have been leaking a lot of goals at the back. Tinkler’s side have conceded a staggering 18 goals from their last three matches in all competitions. ‘ The Boro ’ have produced some exciting young talents over the last couple of seasons and although I don’t know an awful lot about their current crop of players I know that they have some highly rated players in their side. Winger Alberto Balde who I have highlighted below is one player to keep an eye on however, centre forward and top scorer this campaign Gabriel McGill as well as midfielder Hayden Hackney is another of Tinkler’s talented lads. I would imagine that Matt Wells will put out a strong Tottenham team for tomorrow’s match. I will be traveling up to Darlington first thing on Saturday morning to report on what promises to be a really interesting match. My in-depth match report of the game will be out on Sunday.

My predicted lineup: (4-2-3-1) Kurylowicz, Tainio, Statham, Binks (c), Cirkin, White, Cooper, Markanday, Thorpe, Bennett, Richards.

Subs from: Oluwayemi, Okedina, A.Shashoua, Pochettino, Clarke. 

Injured/unavailable: Phoenix Patterson, Malachi Walcott, Enock Asante, Jeremie Mukendi.

Doubtful: Armando Shashoua.

Previous meeting: Spurs 3-1 (April 2017).

My score prediction: Spurs 4-1.

My one to watch: Middlesbrough’s Spanish winger Alberto Balde formerly of Northern Irish club Portadown is a player who was linked with a whole host of English clubs while he was a schoolboy in Northern Ireland. The highly rated Balde is a tricky winger, and he has found the back of the net on three occasions for Middlesbrough’s under 18 side so far this season.

ICYMI: https://superhotspur.com/2018/12/20/spurs-under-18s-2-1-millwall-match-report/

Spurs under 21’s 0-3 Oxford United: (match report)

Our development side crashed out of the Checkatrade trophy on Tuesday evening, after Wayne Burnett’s side were beaten 3-0 by league one club Oxford United at the Kassam stadium. It was one challenge to many for our development side who after achieving so much in order to progress from the group stages of the competition were unable to match the league one side on the night. Oxford United who are managed by Karl Robinson were superior to us on Tuesday evening. They were stronger, quicker and much more experienced than us and despite their best efforts Burnett’s side were unable to overcome the ‘ U’s ’ who unlike us put out their strongest available side. Burnett’s side on the other hand was without the likes of Anthony Georgiou, TJ Eyoma and Paris Maghoma and the trios absence was sorely felt. It was a disappointing end to what has been an extremely positive journey in the competition this campaign. However, when youngsters are coming up against league one players of the ilk of James Henry, Simon Eastwood and Ricky Holmes you know that you’re going to be up against it. Tuesdays match under the floodlights at the Kassam stadium would have been one of the biggest games that some of our lads have ever been involved in. Oxford played some attractive attacking football and it didn’t take the league one side long before they troubled our defence. All three of the  ‘ Yellows ’ goals came from crosses and this was something which Robinson would have been instructing his players to do, as it was extremely difficult for the young Spurs defence to deal with. Oxford took the lead after just 12 minutes through Charlie Raglan who headed home Tony McMahon’s free kick. The  ‘ Yellows ’ doubled their advantage less than four minutes later through Sam Smith as Robinson’s high pressing side took control of the game. Kazaiah Sterling squandered a fantastic chance to pull a goal back for Spurs before half time. Oxford made it 3-0 early on in the second half through Tony McMahon who essentially sealed the win for the home side. Spurs did improve in the second half and they created some good chances, with Jack Roles being their best and most potent attacking player on the day. However, in the end it proved to be one test too many for Spurs who bowed out of this seasons competition with their heads held high, after picking up some valuable experience on the way.

Wayne Burnett opted to go for the familiar 4-2-3-1 formation for our Checkatrade trophy second round game against Oxford United on Tuesday. Brandon Austin started in goal, while a back four of Hinds, Marsh, Tanganga (the captain) and Brown sat in front of him. Dylan Duncan and Jamie Bowden lined up in the centre of the park, with Oakley-Boothe, Roles and 17 year old Rayan Clarke starting behind Kazaiah Sterling who led the line for Spurs. Oxford got the game underway at the Kassam stadium on a wet winters night in county Oxfordshire. Young Jamie Bowden conceded a free kick in a dangerous position early on in the game after he fouled Cameron Brannagan on the edge of the Tottenham penalty area. And the ‘ U’s ’ almost took the lead from the resulting free kick. Tony McMahon’s curling effort managed to get up and over the Spurs wall before flying into Brandon Austin’s side netting. Sam Smith looked to attack James Henry’s cross at the back post shortly afterwards but he ended up fouling Tariq Hinds as he attempted to get to the ball. Spurs were playing about with the ball at the back as Karl Robinson’s side pressed the Spurs players aggressively. Spurs looked to attack down the other end, Duncan shifted the ball out to Clarke on the left wing. The second year scholar played the ball down the line for the overlapping Jaden Brown whose whipped cross flashed across the face of the Oxford goal. The home side then created a good chance at the other end after Gavin Whyte received James Henry’s pass out on the right flank. Whyte managed to pick out Sam Smith in space, in the middle of the Tottenham penalty with a pin point cross. However, the Oxford strikers header went narrowly over Austin’s crossbar. Oxford continued to work the Spurs defenders and they took the lead in unsurprising fashion in the 12th minute of the game. Oxford were awarded a free kick out on the right wing after Jaden Brown had fouled James Henry. Tony McMahon stood up to deliver the ball into penalty area and he managed to pick out Charlie Raglan in space in the middle of the box. Raglan got above the Spurs defenders before planting a header into the bottom right hand corner of Austin’s goal, 0-1.

Jamie Bowden managed to clear Sam Smith’s menacing cross shortly after the restart before the home team managed to carve open our defence following a well worked move. Brannagan passed the ball to Armani Little out on the right wing and the forward cut inside onto to his left foot before entering the penalty area and blazing an effort across Austin’s goal. Robinson’s side were dominating the game and it was only a matter of time before they scored again and that second goal duly arrived in the 17th minute through the ‘ U’s ’ centre forward Sam Smith. The goal came from a corner kick which was whipped into the danger zone by Everton loanee Luke Garbutt and met by Smith, who darted across the Spurs defence to meet it at the near post and head it into the top right hand corner of Austin’s goal, 0-2. The Tottenham goalkeeper was livid that his defenders hadn’t picked up Smith and rightfully so. James Henry fired an effort wide from long range a couple of minutes later after Bowden had lost possession, as Spurs struggled to get into the game. Oxford were attacking down the flanks and their wide players were pumping the ball into the box at every opportunity. George Marsh managed to clear Armani Little’s cross but it came out to Brannagan on the edge of the penalty area, and the midfielders sweetly struck effort on the half volley was well saved by the diving Austin. The so far uninvolved Kazaiah Sterling managed to intercept Luke Garbutt’s pass before darting into the Oxford penalty area. However, the alert Curtis Nelson managed to get across Sterling to win the ball off of him before the Spurs man could pull the trigger. James Henry fired an effort over Austin’s crossbar shortly afterwards when he received Sam Smith’s pass on the edge of the Tottenham penalty area. Spurs managed to go on a good attack at the other end as Oakley-Boothe passed the ball to Duncan who shifted the ball out to Clarke on the left flank. Clarke continued forward before cutting inside onto his right foot and firing an effort narrowly wide of Simon Eastwood’s goal. Jamie Bowden then created a glorious chance for Kazaiah Sterling a couple of minutes later.

The intelligent midfielder played one of his perfectly weighted defence splitting passes through the Oxford defence which Sterling ran onto. The Spurs striker had timed his run well and he travelled all the way into the Oxford penalty area where he was met by the outrushing Eastwood. The usually clinical Sterling took his time before trying to tuck the ball past the Oxford goalkeeper, but the Spurs mans effort lacked power and Eastwood was able to stop it with his left leg. The ‘ U’s ’ went straight down the other end as they tried to catch Spurs on the break. Henry passed the ball to Tony McMahon down the right side of the Tottenham penalty area, but his powerful effort was parried by the alert Brandon Austin. The Spurs goalkeeper accidentally gave the ball away to Armani Little shortly afterwards and the winger played a first time pass into Sam Smith inside the penalty area however, George Marsh managed to make an important interception to win the ball off the Oxford striker. Spurs were working hard in order to try and work the Oxford defence. A move from the young Lilywhites saw Bowden pass the ball to the creative Jack Roles who gave the ball to Clarke out on the left wing before cutting inside and having his effort on goal blocked by Charlie Raglan who put the ball behind for a corner. Jamie Bowden’s resulting delivery from the corner kick was only just missed by Tanganga at the back post. The final attack of the half came from the home side who almost extended their lead in first half stoppage time. Gavin Whyte passed the ball to Tony McMahon who managed to pick out Armani Little at the back post, but Little ended up flashing a header a matter of inches wide of Austin’s goal. Spurs got the second half underway after the break as Burnett’s side looked to shake things up to prevent going out of the competition. Oxford soon reestablished their strangle hold on the game, Luke Garbutt had an effort on goal blocked by Tanganga after he had received Armani Little’s pass.

The ‘ Yellows ’ effectively put the game to bed a couple of minutes later when Tony McMahon put Oxford 3-0 up. A corner kick by Luke Garbutt was not dealt with properly by the Spurs defence and the ball came out to Whyte on the opposite flank. His cross eventually came into the feet of McMahon who fired past Austin from inside the penalty area, 0-3. Oxford came close to making it 4-0 shortly after the restart when Gavin Whyte cut inside from the right wing before firing narrowly over on the edge of the penalty area. Sam Smith had a shot on goal blocked by Duncan a couple of moments later as the Spurs defence struggled to keep out the Oxford forwards. Jack Roles came mighty close to pulling a goal back for Spurs after he received Clarke’s pass on the edge of the Oxford penalty area before curling an effort onto Eastwood’s left hand post. The alert Dylan Duncan tried to pounce on the loose ball but Eastwood just beat him to it, to smother the ball. The potent Jack Roles was involved in another Spurs chance a couple of minutes later. After the forward had slipped the ball into Sterling inside the Oxford box, the Spurs striker gave the ball back to Roles who was waiting on the edge of the penalty area. However, Roles’ resulting effort was blocked by Jamie Hanson before Sterling hit a deflected effort wide of the mark. Spurs were enjoying a good spell in the game and that had a lot to do with Jack Roles. After winning a free kick on the edge of the Oxford penalty area following a foul from Raglan, Roles had a deflected effort put behind for a Spurs corner kick. After getting on the end of Jaden Brown’s cross inside the penalty area Sterling turned his man before having his shot blocked by Charlie Raglan a couple of moments later. Then a couple of minutes later Sterling found Oakley-Boothe who went on a driving forward run before passing the ball to Sterling whose effort was blocked once again by Raglan. Both defences had started to open up as both sides looked to attack at every opportunity. Japhet Tanganga did well to block substitute Marcus Browne’s effort on goal following a good passing move from Oxford. The West Ham loanee threatened the Spurs defence again a couple of moments later, this time he wrong footed Tariq Hinds down the left side of the penalty area before forcing Austin into making an impressive reflex save at his near post to stop his thumping effort on goal.

George Marsh blocked substitute Ricky Holmes’ effort shortly afterwards before the makeshift Tottenham defender did well to block Gavin Whyte’s cross a couple of moments later. Sam Smith won a free kick in a promising position for the ‘ U’s ’ soon after but his effort was blocked by Hinds before Tanganga made a superb block to deny Marcus Browne on the follow up. Hinds received treatment from the Tottenham medical staff after going down injured after being struck painfully by Sam Smith’s powerful free kick. Charlie Raglan managed to pick out Browne at Austin’s back post shortly afterwards. The West Ham loanee met Raglan’s cross with his head and the 21 year olds header seemed to strike Jaden Brown’s hand before Austin made the save. The Oxford players were looking for a penalty but the referee thought otherwise and play resumed. Cameron Brannagan fired an effort narrowly over Austin’s crossbar shortly afterwards after he received Sam Smith’s pass on the edge of the Spurs box. Shilow Tracey made his return to action from a long injury lay off when he replaced Jamie Bowden in the 73rd minute. The game had started to ebb away from Spurs and they were lacking the intensity that they had shown during the first half. Brandon Austin made another save this time to deny Ricky Holmes’ strike from 20 yards out. After Oakley-Boothe whipped a dangerous ball into the penalty area shortly afterwards the ball ended up coming out to Clarke on the left flank. The 17 year old managed to find Roles who gave the ball to Sterling in the middle of the box, but the strikers tame effort was easily saved by Eastwood. George Marsh conceded a free kick right on the edge of the Spurs penalty area at the other end. Substitute Ricky Holmes stood up to take it but the former Charlton man ended up curling the ball over Austin’s crossbar. Jack Roles tried to beat Eastwood at the other end with a cheeky chip on the edge of the Oxford penalty area after receiving Hinds‘ pass however, the Oxford goalkeeper knew what Roles was going to do and he made an easy save to deny the Spurs man.

Tariq Hinds was replaced by Jamie Reynolds in the 85th minute as Burnett made his second substitution of the game. After Dylan Duncan conceded a free kick out on the right flank Tony McMahon’s resulting delivery was headed wide by Jamie Hanson at the back post. Jack Roles came close to setting Kazaiah Sterling through on goal at the other end before Rayan Clarke was brought off in the place of Elliot Thorpe who came onto make his debut for the development side. Armani Little fired narrowly over after meeting Luke Garbutt’s cross inside the Tottenham penalty area. Sam Smith headed Tony McMahon’s cross narrowly over Austin’s crossbar shortly afterwards in what turned out to be the final piece of action from the game. It was a shame that Spurs got knocked out of the competition in such fashion but it’s worth remembering the quality of the opposition that we were playing. This competition has provided Spurs’ young players with the invaluable experience of playing against EFL clubs and I for one am extremely proud of all that our lads have achieved in the competition this season. Our development sides next game isn’t until the 7th of January when we will face Liverpool in the PL2.

 

Player reviews:

• Brandon Austin: One of our best players on the day was goalkeeper Brandon Austin who made five impressive stops against the ‘ U’s ’ to prevent the league one side from winning by a greater margin. Austin dealt well with corner kicks and his distribution was also good. Furthermore, I really admired Austin’s leadership skills and his passionate response to his defenders in the aftermath to all three goals that we conceded. Austin’s save to deny Marcus Browne’s powerful effort in the second half was the pick of the bunch. 
• Tariq Hinds: I thought that the right back did quite a good job at protecting his side of the pitch against the speedy Armani Little. Hinds completed 85 minutes of the match before being replaced by Jamie Reynolds.
• Japhet Tanganga: The skipper was busy throughout Tuesday nights cup tie and he made a number of important blocks, clearances and interceptions. Tanganga marshalled the defence well.
• George Marsh: Like Tanganga the makeshift centre half defended to the best of his abilities and he made some really impressive blocks and defensive interventions.
• Jaden Brown: I thought that the left back had an ok game. Brown was good at going forwards and he overlapped Rayan Clarke on several occasions throughout the match.
• Dylan Duncan: The central midfielder was one of our best players on the day. Duncan carried the ball well in the centre of the park and he helped to link defence with attack. The 19 year old went on some really promising driving runs through the middle of the park and this helped to create chances for both Sterling and Roles. Duncan worked tirelessly in the midfield and he sprayed some lovely passes out to the wide men on the flanks. I’ve been really impressed with how the West Londoner has been playing for our development side this season.
• Jamie Bowden: Karl Robinson and his coaching staff had clearly done their research on Tottenham’s young midfield craftsman. Robinson had the experienced James Henry pressing Bowden throughout the game, preventing him from getting into space and following his every move. The 17 year old did however, manage to have a very tidy game in the centre of the park. And the second year scholar also managed to play a superb defence splitting pass to set Sterling racing through on goal during the first half.
• Tashan Oakley-Boothe: Operating out on the right wing, after a quiet first half Oakley-Boothe grew into the game and he went on some particularly promising attacking forays during the second half. He was also involved in a lot of nice passages of play.
• Jack Roles: My motm, see below. 
• Rayan Clarke: The 17 year old went on some positive runs down the left wing and he was confident in the way that he went about things. Clarke came close to scoring in the first half after he cut in onto his right foot before powering an effort narrowly wide of the Oxford goal.
• Kazaiah Sterling: The centre forward worked hard throughout the game but things didn’t quite come off for the 20 year old from Enfield, on Tuesday. Sterling would have been bitterly disappointed that he had been unable to score from a one on one against Eastwood in the first half, and he also had a couple of decent half chances which he was unable to put away in the second half. However, you couldn’t fault his exceptional work rate.
• Shilow Tracey: Tracey came onto replace Bowden in the 73rd minute of the game to make his first appearance for the club since August the 13th, following a long injury lay off. I was delighted to see Tracey back playing again and the former Ebbsfleet man went on some positive surging runs down the right flank during his time on the field.
• Jamie Reynolds: The left back filled in for the injured Tariq Hinds at right back for the final couple of minutes of the game. Reynolds defended solidly during his time on the pitch.
• Elliot Thorpe: It was only a very fleeting cameo for the Wales under 19 international who showed a real willingness to press during his short time on the pitch. On a side note I was delighted that the second year scholar got to make his debut for the development side in such a big game.

My man of the match: Jack Roles. I thought that the classy Cyprus under 21 international was our best player by a country mile on Tuesday night. Roles played in the hole for the majority of our 3-0 defeat to Oxford. He was the only Spurs player who ever looked like scoring and once again he put in a very silky performance for Burnett’s side. He travelled with the ball well and he played with an almost Berbatov-esque panache about him. He worked hard to create space for himself and he would always track back after him to help Spurs out in defence. However, it was the 19 year olds movement in and around the six yard box which caused problems for the Oxford defence. Roles came close to getting on the scoresheet in the second half after he hit the post with a clever curling effort from the edge of the six yard box. Everything from his awareness to his ability to get in and behind the Oxford defence was so impressive, he really was the shining light for Burnett’s side.

Oxford United: Eastwood (c), McMahon, Garbutt, Hanson, Nelson, Raglan, Brannagan (Heap 77), Little, Smith, Henry (Browne 58), Whyte (Holmes 58). Substitutes (not used): Stevens, Mousinho, Mackie, Long.

Spurs: Austin, Hinds (Reynolds 84), Brown, Bowden (Tracey 71), Tanganga (c), Marsh, Oakley-Boothe, Duncan, Sterling, Roles, Clarke (Thorpe 89). Substitutes (not used): De Bie, Cooper, Okedina.

Goals: Oxford – Raglan 13, Smith 16, McMahon 47.

Yellow card: Oxford – Smith 90.

Referee: Kevin Johnson.

Venue: Kassam Stadium, Oxford.

Attendance: 1,422.

Spurs under 21/23’s statistics 2018/19:

Goals scored: Jack Roles – 5

Shayon Harrison – 5

Paris Maghoma – 4

Kazaiah Sterling – 4

Jaden Brown – 2

Samuel Shashoua – 1

Marcus Edwards – 1

Dylan Duncan – 1

Phoenix Patterson – 1

Harvey White – 1

Assists: Jack Roles – 5

Paris Maghoma – 2

J’Neil Bennett – 2

Jaden Brown – 2

Kazaiah Sterling – 2

Troy Parrott – 1

Shayon Harrison – 1

Oliver Skipp – 1

Tashan Oakley-Boothe – 1

Dylan Duncan – 1

Jamie Bowden – 1

George Marsh – 1

Clean sheets: Brandon Austin – 2

Alfie Whiteman – 1

Spurs under 18’s 2-1 Millwall: (match report)

Our under 18’s had the battle of their lives on Monday evening at the Den, when Matt Wells side took on Millwall in the third round of the FA youth cup. Our lads have taken on and beaten some of the finest under 18 sides in the country so far this season however, it was category two academy side Millwall who came the closest to ending Spurs’ impressive unbeaten run. It was a proper cup tie and Millwall gave their all against Spurs, pressing aggressively and showing that hunger in their belly. This prestigious youth competition is the one that every team dreams of winning and as expected Spurs put out a strong team against Millwall, with Paris Maghoma and Troy Parrott all starting. Our lads never really got into full flow and it was an uncharacteristically nervous looking performance from Spurs for large parts of the game. That may have been down to the occasion or the fact that they were playing in an unfamiliar ground in front of a crowd of over 700 spectators. After a fairly disappointing opening half an hour of the match Spurs had been unable to muster any real goalscoring chances, and Millwall’s rough approach to the game had clearly unsettled them. Matt Wells side were stunned in the 34th minute when the ‘ Lions ’ took a surprise lead through their caption Billy Mitchell whose 25 yard thunderbolt caught our goalkeeper Joshua Oluwayemi by surprise. A scrappy second half ensued as the home team kept out Spurs’ potent attacking players. Chances came and went for both sides particularly Tottenham who just couldn’t seem to break down the Millwall defence. However, Spurs’ hard work and grit and determination, made sure that the Lilywhites weren’t on the end of a cup upset thanks to substitute J’Neil Bennett’s last gasp equaliser in the third minute of stoppage time, to take the game to extra time. Spurs were the better team in extra time as former Spurs man Chris Perry’s side began to tire. After some good work from Troy Parrott the Irishman set up Rodel Richards on 94 minutes to put us ahead. And despite the best efforts of the ‘ Lions ’ our heroic lads did enough to see out the game and book their place in the fourth round of the competition, where they will face Arsenal away.

Although we changed formation and shape several times throughout the game Spurs lined up in the familiar 4-3-2-1 formation, with Joshua Oluwayemi starting in goal for Matt Wells side. Maxwell Statham started the game at right back while Binks and Lyons-Foster started in the middle, with Cirkin playing at left back. Harvey White and our captain Armando Shashoua manned the midfield and the attacking line of Markanday, Maghoma and Richards all started behind the inform Troy Parrott who led the line. Spurs got the cup tie underway at the Den in front of a big crowd for youth football standards. After losing the ball early on in the game midfielder Harvey White was dispossessed by Millwall’s Samuel Skeffington inside his own half. The Millwall winger tried his luck from range with a powerful low effort which ended up deflecting off of Lyons-Foster and behind for a corner kick. The ‘ Lions ’ were making their mark on the game, making a number of strong crunching challenges on the Spurs players during the opening stages of the match. After advancing on a promising run down the left flank full back Dennis Cirkin had a low cross into the Millwall penalty area cleared by Hayden Muller. Shortly afterwards our captain Armando Shashoua was the victim of a painful challenge by Reuben Duncan. And a matter of moments later Shashoua was given a yellow card for a pull back on Jayden Davis. The home team weren’t afraid to run at Spurs as shown by fullback Junior Tiensa who was allowed to advance down the left flank unopposed before getting his shot away on the edge of the penalty area. Lyons-Foster managed to block Tiensa’s powerful effort meaning that it was an easy save for Oluwayemi to make as he held the ball. Spurs had a good chance at the other end after Rodel Richards darted into the oppositions penalty area, beating his man in the process. Richards kept good balance before passing the ball to Parrott in the centre of the box however, the Dubliners low effort was comfortably stopped by Millwall goalkeeper Joseph Wright. Spurs threatened again shortly afterwards this time through the skipper Armando Shashoua.

After receiving Dilan Markanday’s pass down the right flank Shashoua surged forward, holding off Duncan as he burst into the six yard box before seeing his pass towards Parrott cut out by Besart Toppalloj who put the ball out for a corner kick. Harvey White’s resulting delivery deceived everybody inside the danger zone as it flew across the face of the goal. Spurs managed their first shot on target of the game shortly afterwards through Paris Maghoma. After receiving the ball from Cirkin, Maghoma tried his luck from long range and his well struck stinging effort was held by Joseph Wright in the Millwall goal. The ‘ Lions ’ high pressing was causing us problems and it was preventing us from playing our usual passing game to effect. Makeshift right back Maxwell Statham did well to cut out George Alexander’s cross before it could get to Harry Taylor at the back post as Millwall started to pump the ball into the Tottenham penalty area a lot more frequently. Then in the 34th minute of the game the home team took a surprise lead through their captain Billy Mitchell whose long range thunderbolt had stunned Oluwayemi in the Spurs goal. It was a goal which came out of nowhere. After Statham had lost possession to Harry Taylor the attacking midfielder passed the ball to Mitchell who decided to have a pop some 25 yards out from goal. And the Millwall captain struck it so sweetly and it flew into the top left hand corner of Oluwayemi’s goal, hitting the cross bar on its way in, 0-1. Paris Maghoma could be seen frantically urging on his teammates in the aftermath of the goal to try and get them to respond, and the 17 year old almost managed to do that himself straight from the restart. After playing a quick one two with Richards on the edge of the Millwall penalty area Maghoma curled an effort towards Wright’s right hand corner but the midfielders effort had too much curl on it, and it flew just wide. Luis Binks gave away a free kick right on the edge of the Spurs penalty area after fouling Samuel Skeffington. The resulting free kick was taken by Reuben Duncan whose well executed curling effort flashed inches wide of the Spurs goal.

The flawless Lyons-Foster cleared Jayden Taylor’s menacing cross a matter of moments later as the visitors continued to maintain their high press. In first half stoppage time Harvey White had to make an important block to prevent Hayden Muller’s header from going in, after the defender had attacked Skeffington’s corner kick in what was the last bit of action from the first half. The ‘ Lions ’ got the second half underway at the Den as Chris Perry’s side looked to protect their slender lead. However, the home team came close to doubling their advantage early on in the half through Junior Tiensia. A well worked move from Millwall stemmed from Markanday giving the ball to Jayden Davis who went on a surging run down the left flank before passing the ball to George Alexander, who cut the ball back for Tiensia inside the penalty area. However, the fullbacks first time effort was blocked by Cirkin before Oluwayemi punched clear Skeffington’s resulting corner kick. The Tottenham goalkeeper did well a couple of minutes later to claim an inviting ball into the box from Jayden Davis. Matt Wells side were starting to take more risks as the game progressed, after the tigerish Troy Parrott picked up Luis Binks’ pass down the left flank the striker whipped a low cross into the Millwall penalty area, in which Markanday was so close to making contact with before Wright smothered the ball. Troy Parrott had a shot on goal blocked by Muller shortly afterwards as Spurs continued to look for openings in the Millwall defence. Although Chris Perry’s side were playing with more caution they still created some good chances. Duncan’s hopeful long ball over the Spurs defence managed to pick out Alexander down the right flank however, Lyons-Foster produced a perfect sliding challenge on the Millwall centre forward before then blocking Skeffington’s resulting cross. However, the ball did come back out to Alexander who tried a speculative effort on the volley which ended up dipping just over Oluwayemi’s crossbar.

George Alexander came close to finding the back of the net again a couple of minutes later. This time the second year scholar tried his luck from long range with a powerful low effort at goal, which the diving Oluwayemi somehow managed to save and tip over the crossbar. The 17 year old then came out to confidently claim Reuben Duncan’s resulting corner kick. The young Lilywhites continued to put pressure on the Millwall defence as they went in search of a leveller. Dilan Markanday had a brilliant opportunity to draw Spurs level after he was picked out at Joseph Wright’s back post by Cirkin who whipped an inviting ball into the danger zone. However, the unmarked Markanday didn’t get his angles quite right and his header went wide. Maxwell Statham was brought off shortly afterwards for winger J’Neil Bennett who made his return from injury as Wells looked to inject some pace and trickery into the game. Shortly after coming on Binks found Bennett down the left flank and the 16 year old whipped a teasing ball into the danger zone which was cleared by Tiensia. The young winger was providing Spurs with an all important spark and only a couple of moments after he whipped a promising cross into the danger zone, Bennett was involved once again in another Spurs attack. White passed the ball to Bennett down the left wing and the substitute darted away from Millwall fullback Lewis West before finding Markanday in the box with a whipped cross. Markanday met Bennett’s cross on the volley but his well struck effort was well saved by Wright who managed to clutch the ball. Luis Binks blocked George Alexander’s cross at the other end and the Spurs players went in search of a penalty a couple of minutes later. White sprayed the ball to Bennett out on the left hand side and the wingers cross was handled by Billy Mitchell inside the Millwall penalty area before being tipped behind for a corner by Wright. However, the referee Ricky Adams waived away any claims that the Spurs players had for a penalty. The game had developed into a really competitive affair as Spurs upped their tempo and looked to outplay the category two academy side. Joshua Oluwayemi comfortably saved Reuben Duncan’s effort from long range, before Luis Binks went into the referees book for a foul on Samuel Skeffington.

Billy Mitchell blazed an effort wide from long range for the home side only a couple of moments before Hayden Muller headed Duncan’s cross wide of Oluwayemi’s goal. Spurs were becoming more desperate by each passing minute as Millwall continued to press and defend tightly. After being found inside the oppositions penalty area by Bennett, Parrott passed the ball to Maghoma on the edge of the box, but the midfielders effort went well wide of Wright’s goal. Spurs had another claim for a penalty after Richards was tripped inside the box by Muller, before Bennett whipped another teasing ball into the six yard box which this time only just deceived Markanday at the back post. Midfielder Harvey White lost possession to Mitchell who quickly shifted it out to Alexander on the right wing. The Millwall strikers resulting cross was volleyed a matter of inches wide of the Spurs goal by Jayden Davis at the back post. Dennis Cirkin cleared Reuben Duncan’s free kick shortly afterwards as the Spurs defence continued to hold. However, the young fullback gave the ball away to Duncan a couple of minutes later. Duncan passed the ball to Alexander who went on driving run through the middle of the park before being intercepted by Binks on the edge of the penalty area. Captain Armando Shashoua was brought off a couple of moments later for Maurizio Pochettino, as Troy Parrott took the captains armband. A clever long pass from Harvey White almost managed to set Paris Maghoma through on goal. Spurs made another substitution in the 85th minute when they brought off Brooklyn Lyons-Foster in place of Maximus Tainio. Matt Wells was frantically urging his young players on from the touch line as Spurs started to throw everything at the Millwall defence, as we reached the final stages of the game. The skipper Troy Parrott was a constant thorn in the Millwall defences side and the young Dubliner came close to netting a late equaliser after being slipped through inside the penalty area by Markanday. With his back to goal, Parrott did so well to hold off Besart Topalloj inside the area before turning away from his man and firing an effort at goal. However, Parrott’s powerful effort was spectacularly saved by the alert Joseph Wright.

Luis Binks forced a comfortable save out of Wright from a corner shortly afterwards when he went to meet Maghoma’s corner. However, Binks‘ header took a deflection off of a Millwall player and this made it a comfortable save for Wright to make. Harvey White delivered two corners into the penalty area successfully before he struck lucky the third time deep into second half stoppage time. Spurs had almost every player in the box as Harvey White whipped the ball into the danger zone. Richards attempted to attack the ball but he missed it, and it came out to Bennett at the back post who steadied himself before smashing the ball beyond Wright and into the back of the net, 1-1. This sparked jubilant scenes of celebration amongst the Spurs players and substitutes who celebrated right in front of the away end, it was a wonderful scene. However, Spurs did have one late scare after Luis Binks conceded a free kick out on the right flank following a foul on Alexander in the 95th minute. Luckily for Spurs, the newly introduced Sean O’Brien’s delivery was headed narrowly over Oluwayemi’s crossbar by Besart Topalloj, bringing normal time to an end. Matt Wells and his lads all huddled around in a circle on the pitch prior to the first half of extra time. Ryan Mason could be seen giving advice to midfielder Harvey White before Spurs got the first half underway. The fitness of both sides would play a telling part in this cup tie. Spurs had the first chance of the half when J’Neil Bennett received Markanday’s pass on the left wing, he surged past Lewis West before cutting inside and curling an effort wide of the goal from the edge of the penalty area. Maurizio Pochettino then saw his cross gathered by Joseph Wright shortly afterwards. However, just a matter of moments later Spurs took the lead for the first time in the game through Rodel Richards just four minutes into the half. Matt Wells side had started extra time brilliantly and the Spurs coach would have been delighted with the move leading up to our second goal of the game.

The move started with Maximus Tainio who passed the ball to Markanday who spotted the run of Parrott down the right hand side of the penalty area, before slipping the ball into the Irishman. Parrott kept his composure in the box and as Wright came rushing out to get to the ball, the Spurs striker rounded the Millwall goalkeeper before cutting the ball back for Richards to tap home in the centre of the box, 2-1. The ‘ Lions ’ had players going down with cramp and it was evident that they were struggling to keep up with the pace of the much fitter Spurs lads. However, the ‘ Lions ’ came desperately close to making an instant response straight from the restart. Harry Taylor’s curling effort from long range had Oluwayemi worried and although the Tottenham goalkeeper managed to make the save he wasn’t able to clutch the ball and it ended up hitting the post before he went to smother the ball. Markanday and Bennett were involved in a clever move a couple of minutes later. Markanday passed the ball to Bennett who ran down the left wing before crossing the ball back to Markanday who had made a run into the six yard box. However, the 17 year olds first time volley with the outside of his boot ended up going wide of the Millwall goal. Spurs then had another glorious chance to put the game to bed following another incisive attack. Maghoma passed the ball to Parrott who spotted and picked out Pochettino down the right hand side of the Millwall penalty. The winger found himself one on one with Wright but his powerful effort was saved by the Millwall goalkeeper who had closed Pochettino down well. Spurs were now in full control of the game. Another nice move from the Lilywhites resulted in Harvey White picking out Parrott with a nice pass on the edge of the Millwall box. Parrott chested the ball down for Markanday whose powerful low effort was well saved by the alert Joseph Wright. And the Millwall goalkeeper was called into action again, this time to deny Rodel Richards effort after the forward had received Bennett’s pass down the left side of the Millwall penalty area, bringing to an end the first half of extra time.

Millwall got the second half underway and we weren’t long into the half when Wells brought Jubril Okedina for Rodel Richards to bolster our defence. An early free kick for Millwall resulted in Lewis West picking out Skeffington inside the Spurs box however, the Millwall wingers effort on goal was blocked heroically by Paris Maghoma. Oluwayemi made a fabulous diving save a couple of moments later to deny Harry Taylor’s curling effort on goal, the Spurs goalkeeper hurt himself following that save and he had to receive some treatment from the Spurs physios. Billy Mitchell’s long ball up to substitute Sean O’Brien was then lobbed over Oluwayemi’s goal as the home team continued to put up a brave fight. The Tottenham goalkeeper then did well to gather Jay Barton’s teasing cross. The combative Paris Maghoma went down injured a couple of minutes later after he made an excellent sliding challenge on Lewis West out on the right wing. The Millwall players and fans were not happy with Maghoma for going to ground at such a later stage in the game and they let him know it. J’Neil Bennett continued to look lively down the left wing, the 16 year old played in Parrott who got away from Billy Mitchell before attempting to find Markanday at the back post with a sublime cross with the outside of his boot, it was however, cut out by Muller who subsequently made the clearance. Parrott then went straight down the other end to help out the Tottenham defence and to block Samuel Skeffington’s shot on goal. Spurs broke down the other end through Cirkin who passed the ball to Bennett down the left wing. The pacy winger beat Lewis West with ease as he continued on his galavanting run before picking out Markanday inside the danger zone. However, the 17 year olds low first time effort was saved once again by Joseph Wright. Dennis Cirkin blocked Harry Taylor’s shot at the other end of the pitch as the clock ticked down. It should have been 3-1 to Spurs after Markanday was played through on goal by Parrott before calmly tucking the ball past Wright and into the bottom right hand corner of the goal. However, Markanday was cruelly denied his goal by the linesman on the far side who wrongly adjudged the Spurs winger to have been in an offside position when the pass from Parrott was made.

Finland under 19 international Maximus Tainio went into the book for a foul on Jay Barton in second half stoppage time in what was to be the final piece of action from a dramatic cup tie. Matt Wells side battled so hard to get the win, they were resilient and they showed great team spirit. Super sub J’Neil Bennett changed the game with his pace and trickery down the left wing, but it was a great team effort which saw us overcome the ‘ Lions ’ who despite their very best efforts were unable to keep up with Spurs in extra time. Spurs will contest a north London derby against Arsenal in the fourth round of this famous competition. A date for that game hasn’t been set yet, but I would be very surprised if it wasn’t played at the the Emirates stadium. Meanwhile our under 18’s will play their final game of 2018 this Saturday when they travel up to Darlington to face Middlesbrough in their final group game of this season premier league cup. A win for Spurs would send them through to the quarter finals as group winners.

Player reviews:

• Joshua Oluwayemi: The second year scholar had an excellent game between the sticks on Monday night. Oluwayemi made five important stops against Millwall in total and he had an excellent game all round against the South London club. Oluwayemi could have done absolutely nothing to deny Billy Mitchell’s stunning first half goal, but the 17 year old made a string of really impressive saves to deny Millwall from extending their lead. The most notable save was the one to deny Harry Taylor’s curling effort on goal. The second year scholar also impressed with how confidently he dealt with crosses and corner kicks. In addition, his distribution was good under pressure and he managed the game well, e.g falling to the floor with the ball during the latter stages of the game, as Spurs looked to hold onto their 2-1 lead.
• Maxwell Statham: Operating at right back Statham completed 54 minutes of the match. The 18 year old made some nice strong challenges and he dealt well with the threat posed by both Jayden Davis and Junior Tiensia down the left hand side.
• Brooklyn Lyons-Foster: The ball playing centre half didn’t put a foot wrong on his first game back from injury for Matt Wells side. Lyons-Foster read the game to perfection alongside Luis Binks. His passing was nice and crisp and he looked very comfortable on the ball, especially in high pressure situations. However, Lyons-Foster read the game really well and he anticipated danger with precision. He made a superb sliding challenge to prevent George Alexander from being allowed a clean route through to goal during the second half. Lyons-Foster always made sure that he was in the right place at the right time and him and Binks complemented each other throughout the match.
• Luis Binks: I thought that the England under 18 international who was operating at RCB on Monday night, put in a fantastic performance at the back. Binks‘ understanding of the game was top class, and the first year scholar was ever present across the back four. He made many important defensive interventions as well as clearances. And like Lyons-Foster he was always in position and this was really important for Spurs. The 17 year old was a leader of men against Millwall and without him I don’t think that we would have taken the game to extra time.
• Dennis Cirkin: The left back who would later go onto fill in at centre half had a really good game at the Den. Cirkin got up and down the left flank well and he did a good at dealing with the threat posed by Millwall winger Samuel Skeffington down that side of the pitch. Cirkin went on some nice attacking forays of his own and he whipped some promising balls into the danger zone. It was a very well balanced performance from the 16 year old.
• Harvey White: I thought that the 17 year old put in a very industrious performance in the centre of midfield. White kept the ball moving and made some clever passes as well as showing a real tenacity about his game. He made some important blocks and interceptions in and around the Tottenham penalty area and he filled in well for defenders who were out of position. The midfielder set up J’Neil Bennett’s dramatic late equaliser from his corner kick to get his tenth assist of the season. White showed just how versatile he is during our cup tie with Millwall. White made a particularly important block to prevent Hayden Muller’s header from going in, in the first half.
• Armando Shashoua: Our under 18’s captain fantastic played alongside Harvey White in the centre of midfield. Shashoua who completed 78 minutes of the game was painfully studded early on in the match by Reuben Duncan. However, the 18 year old went onto put in a real shift for the team. The midfielder worked tirelessly to influence the game and he could often be seen drifting out onto the right flank where he combined well with winger Dilan Markanday. Armando went on some nice forward runs through the middle and he also impressed with his ball retention and hard work at tracking back, this drew rapturous applause from the Spurs fans in the away end.
• Dilan Markanday: The in form right winger was one of our sides most creative players against Millwall and on another day he could have scored a hat-trick. Markanday made some good runs down the right channel and he constantly made himself available inside the six yard box. The 17 year old had a number of efforts saved by Joseph Wright and on the time that he did manage to beat the Millwall goalkeeper he was wrongly ruled offside. I thought that Millwall’s impressive fullback Junior Tiensia protected his side of the very well. Markanday also played at right back during the latter stages of the game.
• Paris Maghoma: Maghoma managed to adapt to Monday’s cup tie really well in what was only his third appearance for the under 18 side this season. Maghoma started the game as a number ten but for large chunks of the match he was essentially playing as a holding midfielder. Maghoma adapted to the scrappy game in the same way a midfielder like Dele Alli does. He was defensively disciplined but he did make some promising runs through the middle and he impressed with his passing. Maghoma broke up play well in the centre of the park and he never stopped running. There were periods in the game when it looked as if he was playing at centre half. Like Harvey White put in a really industrious performance and he showed a real willingness to track back and help out the back four. He made a number of important blocks and interceptions and as a box to box midfielder he did a sterling job and he helped to link defence with attack. He also picked up cramp during extra time but he still maintained his excellent work rate.
• Rodel Richards: The 18 year old started the game out on the left wing although he would often cut inside and look to play through the middle. Richards grew into the game during the second half and he went on some nice runs into the Millwall penalty area. And the South Londoner ended up netting the winner after he tapped home Troy Parrott’s pass in extra time.
• Troy Parrott: My motm, see below.
• J’Neil Bennett: The speedy winger changed the game after he was brought on in the 54th minute. On his first appearance since injury, Bennett looked incredibly sharp and he terrorised Millwall fullback Lewis West down the left flank. Bennett was the spark that Spurs were so desperately lacking during the first half and he made an almost instant impact after he was introduced to the game early on in the second half. West was unable to deal with the 16 year olds pace and trickery, and although Bennett was direct he did mix things up and this caused problems for the Millwall defence. Apart from his many searing runs down the left channel Bennett whipped some delightful crosses into the danger zone and he was very unselfish a lot of the time. He also tracked back well after him and he helped Cirkin out at the back. The former QPR schoolboys biggest contribution to the game was his dramatic late leveller to take the game to extra time. He showed good composure before beating Wright at his near post in second half stoppage time. It was a very positive performance from the talented 16 year old.
• Maurizio Pochettino: Pochettino replaced Armando Shashoua in the 78th minute of the match and he played out on the right wing. Pochettino made some good runs down the channel as he looked to influence play. The 17 year old did have one good chance when he found himself one on one with Wright but he was unable to put the ball in the back of the net.
• Maximus Tainio: The Finland under 19 international replaced Lyons-Foster in the 85th minute of the game and he helped to bolster the Spurs defence, providing much needed energy for us during extra time.
• Jubril Okedina: The centre half came on in extra time to help Spurs see out the game.

My man of the match: Troy Parrott. The young Dubliner had yet another outstanding game for our under 18’s on Monday evening. Parrott proved pivotal to Spurs winning the cup tie, making an immense contribution to the game at both ends of the pitch. The tireless centre forward charged at the Millwall defence like a bull as he pressed relentlessly throughout the match. The 16 year old made some intelligent runs in and behind the Millwall defence but he also created some good chances for his teammates. It was quite incredible to see a 16 year old maintain such a high work rate even as we entered extra time. In the most Kane-esque way, Parrott covered every blade of grass and he was as good a defender as anybody else on the pitch. He would often track back 60 or so yards in order to help out the Spurs defenders at every opportunity. And as a result of this he made some really important blocks and interceptions. In addition to his outstanding defensive contribution Parrott also led the line well and the timing of his runs was equally as impressive. He had one decent chance in the first half which resulted in him forcing a relatively comfortable save out of Wright. However, it was during the second half that he started to grow into the game a lot more. He held the ball up well and he managed to be effective with his back towards goal. Parrott’s assist to set up Rodel Richards winner was well worked. He showed good composure and balance before rounding the Millwall goalkeeper inside the penalty area before unselfishly squaring the ball for Richards to tap home. That takes the first year scholars goal involvement to 20 from 20 games at youth level for Spurs this season.

Millwall: Wright, West, Tiensia, B Mitchell (c), Muller (Abdulmalik 98), Topalloj, Skeffington, Duncan (Barton 85), Alexander (A Mitchell 97), Taylor, Davis.

Substitutes (not used): Fanshawe.

Spurs: Oluwayemi, Statham (Bennett 54), Cirkin, White, Lyons-Foster (Tainio 85), Binks, Markanday, A Shashoua (c) (Pochettino 78), Parrott, Maghoma, Richards (Okedina 105).

Substitutes (not used): Kurylowicz.

Goals: Millwall – B Mitchell 34; Spurs – Bennett 90+3, Richards 94.

Yellow cards: Millwall – West 34, Muller 77, Alexander 78, Tiensia 90+2, Barton 108; Spurs – A Shashoua 11, Binks 67, Maghoma 109, Tainio 120+3.

Referee: Ricky Adams.

Spurs under 18’s statistics 2018/19:

Goals scored: Troy Parrott – 10

Dilan Markanday – 7

Rayan Clarke – 6

J’Neil Bennett – 6

Armando Shashoua – 4

Harvey White – 4

Luis Binks – 3

Rodel Richards – 3

Paris Maghoma – 2

Dennis Cirkin – 2

Jeremie Mukendi – 2

Brooklyn Lyons-Foster – 2

Phoenix Patterson – 2

Maurizio Pochettino – 1

Jubril Okedina – 1

Assists: Harvey White – 10

Armando Shashoua – 9

Jamie Bowden – 5

Phoenix Patterson – 4

Rayan Clarke – 4

Troy Parrott – 4

Brooklyn Lyons-Foster – 2

Dennis Cirkin – 2

Dilan Markanday – 2

J’Neil Bennett – 2

Rodel Richards – 2

Paris Maghoma – 1

Maurizio Pochettino – 1

Malachi Walcott – 1

Luis Binks – 1

Rafferty Pedder – 1

Maxwell Statham – 1

Jeremie Mukendi – 1

Some notes on Spurs loanee Samuel Shashoua’s performance against Badalona: 

Tottenham Hotspur starlet Samuel Shashoua made his 13th appearance of the season for his loan club Atlético Baleares on Sunday, as the 19 year old completed the full 90 minutes of the Balearic clubs 1-0 league win over Badalona, at the Son Malferit. On Sunday morning I had the great privilege of attending the fan familiarisation event at the new Spurs stadium. I was absolutely taken aback by the magnificence of our new home and it brought back a lot of memories from the old stadium, it truly is a work of art. After leaving the new stadium I went to a cafe in Tottenham to tune in to Atlético’s home game against Badalona in the Spanish Segunda Division B courtesy of IB3. Manix Mandiola’s side have made the Son Malferit a fortress this season and their exceptional home record continued when Badalona came to the island. The ‘ Balearicos ’ won Sunday’s match 1-0 in what was a pretty comfortable win for Samuel’s team. It was by no means a memorable game but it was another win for Mandiola’s side who got the better of Badalona who had a man sent off during the second half. Once again the opposition’s defence was focusing a lot on our skilful young winger. Samuel started the match out on the left wing and he completed the full 90 minutes of what was a relatively  comfortable win for Mandiola’s side, this was helped by the fact that Badalona had a player sent off right at the start of the second half. The game started fairly evenly but Shashoua had very few touches during the early stages of the game with Atlético preferring to play down the right channel. Mandiola’s side got off to a great start when they took the lead in the ninth minute through Rubén González, after the centre half headed home Francesc Fullana’s free kick. Samuel’s first real contribution to the game was a lung bursting run down the left flank, which only came to an end when Badalona defender Moyano won the ball off of him with an inch perfect sliding challenge. The visitors started to threaten the Atlético defence as they grew into the game and started to play more fluently as Samuel was frustrated by his marker Albarrán.

Shashoua’s final notable involvement from a quiet first half was a positive attacking foray down his side of the pitch. Samuel did well to turn his man before advancing down the left flank and looking like he had the beating of Albarrán before the fullback made a cynical sliding challenge on the teenager with little attempt to get the ball, this sent Shashoua flying and it resulted in Albarrán going into the referees book. The second half was a very different game for both Samuel and his teammates owing to the dismissal of Badalona’s centre forward Chaco in the 51st minute of the game. This gave the wide men greater freedom going forward and it helped Samuel to really get into the game. His first bit of involvement in the second half came courtesy of some lovely footwork out on the left wing to get away from Albarrán, before then whipping a menacing cross into the danger zone. Shashoua’s cross ended up falling for Marcos De la Espada on the edge of the penalty area, but the midfielder fired over Morales‘ goal. The Spurs loanee was now a lot more involved in the game and Atlético were trying to pass the ball fo Shashoua at every opportunity. Shortly after De la Espada’s chance Samuel picked the ball up on the left flank before cutting inside onto his right foot and firing an effort straight at Badalona’s Marc Carbó on the edge of the six yard box. Samuel then harshly had a goal ruled out for offside a matter of moments later, after he had received Canario’s pass on the edge of the Badalona penalty area. After twisting and turning Shashoua calmly tucked the ball past Morales and into the bottom right hand corner of the goal. However, the linesman was adamant that he had been in an offside position when the pass from Canario was made.  By this stage in the game Samuel was one of the most creative players on the pitch and he was making some really well timed runs into the box. After some good work from Canario out on the opposite wing the right winger whipped the ball into the six yard box. However, Canario’s delivery was met awkwardly by the teenager whose headed effort at goal was cleared away by the Badalona defence.

A couple of minutes later Samuel received a pass from Fullana on the edge of the oppositions box after a good attacking move. After taking a good first touch he unselfishly played the newly introduced Alberto Villapalos through on goal however, the substitutes effort was saved by Morales who had closed him down well inside the penalty area. Atletico were all over Badalona who were unable to get back into the game following the sending off of their main striker. Shashoua was working really hard down the left flank, he was tracking back well after him and was showing a real willingness to pick the ball up and drive at Albarrán. One such jinking run saw Samuel skip away from Robusté before darting past Albarrán with ease down the left channel before being closed down and intercepted by Moyano who read the situation well. Samuel’s final notable involvement in the game was a thumping effort from the edge of the Badalona penalty area, which was frustratingly blocked by Albarrán with the referee sounding for full time shortly afterwards as Atlético moved up to third place in the league table. It wasn’t Atletico’s finest game by any means however, the shining light from Mandiola’s side was the 19 year old Londoner. While he struggled to get involved down the left wing during the first half owing to both the tight marking of Albarrán and the lack of focus down that side of the pitch from the Atletico players. Samuel worked so hard in order to change that in the second half and he was by far the best player on the pitch after Badalona went down to ten men. He tracked back well after him and he made positive use of the ball. Constantly looking to outwit the oppositions impressive fullback and drive down the left flank. Shashoua was involved in the thick of the action during the second half and he linked up well with substitute Alberto Villapalos who played up top. On another day Samuel could have had an assist and a goal. He made some clever and unselfish passes throughout the match but he also got into some really good goal scoring positions. And the 19 year olds disallowed goal in the second half was such a shame as it looked as if he was in an onside position when the ball was played through to him. As the players tired towards the latter the stages of the game Samuel stood out for his energy and aggressive pressing. Despite being the youngest player on the pitch he looked the fittest.

Shashoua played a big part in Sunday’s victory as Atletico continue to do well in the league. Up next for Samuel and Atlético is a trip to face league leaders Lleida next Saturday evening. A win for Atlético could see them go top of the league.

Samuel Shashoua for Atlético Baleares this season: 

Appearances: 13

Goals: 3

Assists: 2

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

After recording an impressive 2-1 win against Manchester City in the PL2 on Saturday afternoon, Wayne Burnett’s development side will be hoping for more of the same when they go toe to toe with league one side Oxford United on Tuesday in the second round of the Checkatrade trophy. The game against the league one club is without doubt their biggest game of the season so far. Our youngsters did ever so well to progress from the group stages of the competition and whatever happens next can only be a bonus for Burnett’s side. Our development side are on a good run at the moment and they are unbeaten in their last four matches in all competitions. Impressive wins over both Manchester City under 23’s and Wolfsburg II this month will give Spurs the belief and confidence that they can get the better of the league one club at the Kassam stadium on Tuesday. Oxford manager Karl Robinson recently took in a Spurs under 23 game (the 2-2 draw with Everton) and he and his coaching staff will have been doing a fair bit of research on Burnett’s side ahead of this game. The twice runners up of this competition are a side in good form in league one, after enduring a difficult start  to the campaign. The ‘ U’s ’ have won six of their last ten games in all competitions and they sit in a fairly comfortable 18th position in league one. Robinson’s sides home form is particularly impressive and the ‘ Yellows ’ have won five of their last six games at the Kassam stadium. Some of Oxford’s most influential players are goal scoring midfielder James Henry, West Ham loanee Marcus Browne who plays as a ten, and midfield orchestrator and former Liverpool man Cameron Brannagan. Other players that are worth keeping an eye on are experienced centre forward Jamie Mackie, captain John Mousinho, former Spurs forward Jon Obika and Everton loanee Luke Garbutt. Garbutt is a particularly attack minded left back who is an excellent crosser of the ball. We are now in the knockout stages of the competition and Oxford will want to progress to the third round. Karl Robinson’s attack minded side who have already beaten Fulham’s under 21’s in the competition this season, will not want to be embarrassed by Burnett’s side in their own back yard in front of their home fans.

Unbeaten in their last four games in all competitions Wayne Burnett’s side have performed excellently in this competition this season, and for them to progress from what was a tricky group is an achievement that shouldn’t be sniffed at. After fielding a weakened side for our match against Manchester City on Saturday, Burnett will most likely have key players TJ Eyoma, Anthony Georgiou and the in form Jack Roles back in the side for Tuesday nights game. I am extremely proud of all that our lads have achieved in the Checkatrade trophy so far this campaign and I would like nothing more than to see them beat Oxford under the floodlights at the Kassam stadium, to book a tie against Cheltenham in the next round of the competition. This will be a very challenging game for our young lads but I have every confidence and belief that they can cause an upset and progress to the next round of the competition. I will be reporting on Tuesday nights match and I would like to wish Wayne Burnett’s lads all the very best of luck for what is a massive game. 

My predicted lineup: (4-2-3-1) Whiteman, Hinds, Eyoma, Tanganga (c), Brown, Marsh, Bowden, Oakley-Boothe, Roles, Georgiou, Sterling. 

Subs from: Austin, Reynolds, Duncan, Clarke, Richards.

Injured/unavailable: Luke Amos, Shayon Harrison, Jonathan Dinzeyi, Malachi Walcott, Phoenix Patterson, J’Neil Bennett.

Doubtful: Shilow Tracey.

Previous meeting: N/A.

My score prediction: Spurs 2-1.

My one to watch: The ‘ U’s ’ experienced midfielder James Henry (29) the former Wolves man has been a key player for Karl Robinson’s side this season. The in form Henry has scored five goals from his last four appearances for Oxford United.

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

On Monday evening our high flying under 18 side will face Millwall at the Den in the third round of the prestigious FA youth cup. This is arguably Matt Wells sides biggest game of the season so far. League leaders Tottenham Hotspur have one of their most talented under 18 sides in a generation and I truly believe that we can go all the way in the competition this season, and win it for the first time since 1990. Unbeaten in all competitions this season under head coach Matt Wells, our under 18’s have been in outstanding form since the domestic season started back in August. Monday nights game is their penultimate match of 2018 and it is one in which the club will be desperate to win. Our opponents on Monday are a category two academy side and they are not a team that we would ever meet at this level during the league season. Managed by our former player Chris Perry the ‘ Lions ’ under 18’s play their football in the under 18 professional development league south. And the south London club have been in good form this season and they occupy second spot in the league table. Of the 15 competitive games that Millwall’s under 18’s have played this season, Chris Perry’s side have won seven, drawn four and lost four. The ‘ Lions ’ have also scored more goals than any other side in the under 18 professional development league south (39). Whilst I haven’t seen Millwall play at this level before and don’t know an awful lot about their under 18’s, I have been doing my research. Millwall’s star player is centre forward George Alexander the son of their former first team player Graham. Alexander is the south London clubs top scorer at under 18 level this season and I have highlighted him below as their main danger man. In addition to the highly rated George Alexander, Millwall also have a former England under 16 international in their team in defender Rob Strachan. Other players to watch out for on Monday evening are midfielder Sam Skeffington and forward Jay Barton. In Millwall’s last match the ‘ Lions ’ defeated Colchester United 7-0 in a league game.

There is of course quite a big gulf in quality between the two sides, and on paper Matt Wells unbeaten Tottenham Hotspur should run out comfortable winners when these teams meet. However, this is a cup game which is being played at Millwall’s ground in front of what could be a decent number of people. Despite having home advantage Millwall are by all accounts a good under 18 team who have good history in this competition, and they’ll be looking to unsettle our young lads. In terms of technical ability our lads will have the upper hand. They will also be the fitter of the two teams and I’m sure that will show over the course of the 90 minutes. Matt Wells does however, have a number of players out injured, with the likes of J’Neil Bennett and Phoenix Patterson all missing for Monday’s big game. To put the FA youth cup into context it is the most important of all the youth competitions and it is one in which Spurs will always try their utmost to win. I would imagine that Matt Wells and his coaching staff will select a very strong team for our trip south of the river. Hopefully some of the more experienced players will feature such as Troy Parrott and Paris Maghoma. I said before the season started that this will be the season when we get our hands back on the famous trophy. We have a squad that is full of talent and on our day we can school the Chelsea’s and the Manchester City’s of this level and I still stand by my prediction. The winners of Monday’s tie will face Arsenal away in the fourth round. I will be reporting on Monday’s cup tie from the Den and my match report will be published by Wednesday at the very latest. I wish Matt Wells side all the very best of luck for our cup game against Millwall on Monday.

My predicted lineup: (4-2-3-1) Oluwayemi, Tainio, Okedina, Binks, Cirkin, White, A.Shashoua (c), Markanday, Maghoma, Richards, Parrott.

Subs from: Kurylowicz, Lyons-Foster, Cooper, Clarke, Thorpe.

Injured/unavailable: Phoenix Patterson, J’Neil Bennett, Malachi Walcott, Enock Asante, Jeremie Mukendi.

Doubtful: N/A.

Previous meeting: N/A.

My score prediction: Spurs 4-1.

My one to watch: Millwall’s top scorer at under 18 level this season is centre forward George Alexander. The second year scholar has scored 13 goals for Millwall’s under 18’s this season. Alexander has also found the net on one occasion for the clubs under 23 side. The young Millwall striker scored 19 goals for Millwall’s under 18’s during his first year of scholarship. He is a player that the Spurs defence will have to be wary of.

ICYMI: https://superhotspur.com/2018/11/22/my-piece-on-our-under-18s-captain-fantastic-armando-shashoua-and-just-why-he-will-be-so-important-to-spurs-achieving-success-in-the-fa-youth-cup-this-season/

A message of support to our lads from 1974 FA youth cup winner and Tottenham fan Ian Cranstone: “ I wish the Spurs lads of 2018 all the best and I hope that they go far in the competition. Winning a cup stays with you for life so it’s always going to be memorable and it’s always something that you can look back on with pride. ”

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

Our under 23’s will face Manchester City on Saturday afternoon in the PL2 in what is Wayne Burnett’s sides final league game of 2018. For those of you that don’t already know, Saturday’s rescheduled game will be played behind closed doors due to the fact that Man City’s first team are playing Everton later on that day. As a result of this for the first time this season I will be unable to report on a game that our development side have been involved in, which is a massive shame not just for me but for all of those who wanted to watch the game. Saturday’s game comes at an interesting time for Spurs as our under 18’s have an important FA youth cup tie against Millwall on the Monday, before our development side return to action on the Tuesday to face Oxford United in the Checkatrade trophy. One would assume that there would be a significant number of chances made from the team that started our last PL2 game, a 2-2 draw against Everton at Hotspur Way. We could potentially see a number of our under 18’s make the step up for Saturday’s game. Paul Harsley’s Manchester City side have started the season in fine form and after picking up six wins from their opening 12 PL2 games Harsley’s side are in fourth position in the league table. However, when these two teams met in the reverse fixture at Broadhall Way back in September it was Burnett’s side who came out on top. Our 2-0 win against Man City was one of our finest performances of 2018 and some of the fluent attacking football that Burnett’s side played that day was breathtaking. Saturday’s encounter will probably be a different kind of game but as this fixture has shown in recent seasons including at under 21 level, it is one of those fixtures that seems to produce some incredible score lines due to both teams attacking style of play. I have highlighted the threat of Manchester City winger Rabbi Matondo below but another player who is a real talent and creative force is England under 19 international Ian Carlo Poveda as well as clinical Spanish centre forward Nabil Touaizi.

For those wanting to read a match report of Saturday’s game there should be an official report published by the club at some point over the weekend. I wish Burnett’s side all the very best of luck for what will be a challenging game for our lads.

My predicted lineup: (4-2-3-1) Glover, Hinds, Statham, Marsh (c), Reynolds, Duncan, Bowden, Pochettino, Maghoma, Georgiou, Sterling.

Subs from: Freeman, Brown, Oakley-Boothe, Thorpe, Richards.

Injured/unavailable: Luke Amos, Shayon Harrison, Jonathan Dinzeyi, Phoenix Patterson, J’Neil Bennett.

Doubtful: Shilow Tracey, Brooklyn Lyons-Foster.

Previous meeting: Spurs 2-0

My score prediction: Spurs 2-1.

My one to watch: Manchester City starlet Rabbi Matondo is a player who has pace and trickery in abundance. The Liverpool born winger who is already a full international for Wales has been in good form for the ‘ Sky Blues ’ this season and he has found the back of the net six times from the ten PL2 games that he has been involved in. Matondo is one of the fastest footballers in the country!

Spurs under 19’s 2-0 Barcelona: (match report)

An assured and dominant performance from Matt Wells classy under 19 side saw them overcome UEFA youth league holders FC Barcelona at the Mini Estadi on Tuesday afternoon, to book their place in the next round of the competition. Played only a matter of hours before our first teams decisive UEFA Champions league game, Wells side had a mammoth task of their own in which they needed to overcome in order to progress out of the group stages. Only a win would do for Spurs following Inter Milan’s 3-0 win over PSV earlier in the day. And after putting one of the most mature performances that your ever likely to see at this level, Matt Wells young lads dominated the Catalans with their superb attacking football. They played and beat Barcelona at their very own passing game. With the presence of TJ Eyoma and Harvey White at the back Spurs were imperious in defence and they were able to neutralise the attacking threat of Barcelona’s forwards. We also attacked really well, and with the skill and unpredictability of wide men Dilan Markanday and Jack Roles, combined with the link up play of Maghoma and Parrott we proved to be far too much for the Barcelona defence. It was an excellent team performance from our youngsters who were so, so mature in the way in which they dealt with what was a very talented Barcelona side. After an impressive start to the game Spurs took the lead inside the 17th minute through the inform Troy Parrott who slotted home Paris Maghoma’s cut back from inside the six yard box following a sharp passing move. Chances came and went for both sides as the game progressed but our defence was resolute throughout. After dominating for large periods of the game Spurs finally sealed the win in style in the 89th minute. It was another good move from Spurs which culminated in substitute Rodel Richards turning home Jack Roles’ shot to spark jubilant scenes of celebration in the Catalan capital as our young lads booked their place in the play off round of the competition, defying the odds that had been against them. Matt Wells opted to go for the 4-2-3-1 formation for our must win game against group winners Barcelona on Tuesday.

The skipper Brandon Austin started in goal, while a back four of Hinds, Eyoma, White and Cirkin lined up in front of him. Jamie Bowden and Tashan Oakley-Boothe started in central midfield and the attacking trio of Markanday, Maghoma and Roles all started behind lone striker Troy Parrott. Before the start of Tuesdays UEFA youth league game both sides observed a poignant minutes silence for former Barcelona president Josep Lluís Núñez who recently passed away. Spurs got the game underway at the Mini Estadi and it didn’t take long before both sides started to get involved in the game. TJ Eyoma was forced into putting behind Oscar Mingueza’s dangerous cross before then clearing the following corner kick away from danger. Jamie Bowden tested Barcelona goalkeeper Arnau Tenas from long range a couple of minutes later after he received Jack Roles‘ pass. However, Bowden’s speculative effort was easily gathered by the Barcelona goalkeeper. Spurs had a penalty shout shortly afterwards when Oakley-Boothe was brought down from behind by Antonio Sola inside the penalty area after he was picked out by Roles. However, the referee waived away the Tottenham midfielders claims. It had been a fast paced start to the game from both sides. After being found down the right wing by Mingueza Barcelona forward Konrad De La Fuente whipped a low cross into the Spurs penalty area. The young Americans delivery was met by Anssumane Fati whose first time effort was superbly blocked by TJ Eyoma. A couple of moments later Nicolas Gonzalez and Alejandro Marqués almost pulled off a clever one two inside the Tottenham penalty area before Spurs broke dangerously down the other end of the pitch. Roles found Parrott but the Dubliners effort from range was blocked by Alejandro Marcos Lopez. The same players poor throw in had Barcelona goalkeeper Arnau Tenas in a panic as he hurriedly prevented it from creeping into the goal a matter of minutes later as the game continued to be played at a fast pace.

After Jamie Bowden passed the ball to Maghoma the attacking midfielder embarked on a surging run through the middle of the park before unleashing a powerful low effort at goal which was stopped by Tenas. After a relatively even start to the game Matt Wells side found themselves ahead after Troy Parrott broke the deadlock in the 17th minute of time following a good attacking move. Tariq Hinds passed the ball to Oakley-Boothe down the right flank however, he was fouled by Marcos Lopez. The referee waived play on and Hinds picked up the ball again before darting forward and passing the ball to Maghoma down the right side of the penalty area. Maghoma showed excellent awareness as he unselfishly cut the ball back to Parrott in the centre of the penalty area for the 16 year old to slot past Tenas and into the middle of the goal, 1-0. Spurs came desperately close to doubling their advantage shortly after the restart after Parrott passed the ball to Maghoma who traveled with the ball before giving it to Markanday on the edge of the Barcelona penalty area. The winger cut in onto his left foot before curling a wonderful effort a fraction wide of Arnau Tenas’ goal. Alejandro Marqués came close to getting something on De La Fuente’s dangerous whipped cross at the other end, as Barcelona looked to draw level. Spurs were dictating the tempo of the game as they dominated possession. After receiving Tariq Hinds’ pass on the edge of the Barcelona penalty area Dilan Markanday cut inside onto his left foot before seeing his resulting shot blocked by Antonio Sola. Jack Roles pounced on the loose ball before forcing Tenas into making an easy save to stop his scuffed effort. A couple of minutes later Markanday whipped a dangerous ball right across the face of the Barcelona goal as Spurs continued to push for that all important second goal. Shortly afterwards Brandon Austin made his first save of the game when he comfortably gathered Anssumane Fati’s effort, courtesy of a big deflection off of Hinds. The Catalan side then came desperately close to drawing level courtesy of some really intricate football.

The move was started by Antonio Jesús who picked out Alejandro Marqués inside the Tottenham penalty area. Marqués did well to hold off Eyoma before cleverly back heeling the ball for Fati who dragged the ball across the face of Austin’s goal. Spurs’ left back Dennis Cirkin made an excellent sliding challenge on De La Fuente inside the penalty shortly afterwards as he put the ball out of play, hurting himself in the process. Oscar Mingueza’s resulting corner kick was met by José Martinez Marsà whose powerful header was blocked by Hinds before it came back out to Martinez Marsà who fired over with a wild effort. This was a game which you couldn’t afford to take your eyes off such was the intensity that it was being played at. Wells side looked to respond following a bright spell in the game for the home team. A sharp attacking move resulted in Jack Roles finding Troy Parrott down the left side of the Barcelona box. The 16 year old unselfishly cut the ball back to Maghoma on the edge of the area but the midfielders first time effort flew well wide of the mark, much to the relief of Barcelona’s goalkeeper Arnau Tenas. Harvey White was harshly given a yellow card a couple of minutes later for a late challenge on Anssumane Fati as Barcelona continued to improve as the half went on. However, the final chance of the first half fell to Matt Wells side and it was a golden one for the visitors. After doing well to win the ball off of Nicolas Gonzalez inside his own half Paris Maghoma played a perfectly weighted pass through to Parrott who darted inside the Barcelona penalty area. However, instead of opting to shoot Parrott unselfishly attempted to pass the ball to Maghoma who had also made the run into the box, but it was snuffed out by the Barcelona defence. Barcelona got the second half underway at the Mini Estadi as Denis Silva’s side attempted to draw level. Soon into the half Dennis Cirkin conceded a free kick out on the right flank following a foul on De La Fuente. However, Barça captain Jandro Orellana’s resulting delivery was confidently claimed by Brandon Austin.

Troy Parrott curled an effort over the Barcelona goal on the turn shortly afterwards, when he received Paris Maghoma’s pass inside the penalty area. Following a pass from Bowden which was snuffed out by the Barcelona defence Oakley-Boothe picked up the ball before passing it to Parrott whose powerful shot was parried by Tenas. The ball came back out to Markanday on the edge of the penalty area however, the 17 year old had two shots blocked by Jandro Orellana in quick succession before Barcelona cleared the ball. After winning a free kick out on the right wing Harvey White whipped an inviting ball into the danger zone. It was attacked by Troy Parrott whose powerful header was tipped over by Arnau Tenas. Barcelona looked to respond through Moriba Kourouma Kourouma who forced a decent save out of Brandon Austin with a powerful low effort on goal. Shortly afterwards De La Fuente fed the ball into Mingueza inside the Tottenham penalty area. The Barcelona right back sorted his feet out before testing Austin who comfortably gathered the Spaniards shot after it had taken a hefty deflection off of Eyoma. Austin made a superb stop with his feet to stop Antonio Sola’s header after he’d met Mingueza’s cross a couple of minutes later, however the linesman had flagged for offside. The game had developed into a much more even contest during his second half and Matt Wells side would have to gamble if they wanted to strengthen their lead. After latching onto Arnau Tenas’ poor goal kick Jamie Bowden passed the ball to Parrott who found Jack Roles down the left side of the Barça penalty area. However, the Cyprus under 21 internationals powerful low effort across goal was excellent stopped by the diving Tenas. Tariq Hinds then had a promising cross blocked by Marcos Lopez as Spurs continued to put pressure on the Barcelona defence. Although we were in control of the game danger was never far away as Kourouma Kourouma demonstrated after he robbed Markanday of the ball before driving forward and blasting an effort over Austin’s crossbar. The slightest lapse in concentration against such a well drilled opposition could have proved to be fatal for Matt Wells side.

Alejandro Marqués had an effort on goal blocked by Troy Parrott on the edge of the Tottenham penalty area before TJ Eyoma cleared De La Fuente’s cross. Armando Shashoua replaced Paris Maghoma shortly afterwards as Wells and his coaching staff looked to bring on fresh legs for the final stages of the game. Hardworking fullback Dennis Cirkin did well to block Kourouma Kourouma’s shot from inside the Spurs box as Barcelona continued to threaten the Tottenham defence. A good move from Barça soon afterwards resulted in Mingueza shifting the ball out to De La Fuente on the right wing. The young American did well to pick out Fati inside the penalty area and the Guinea Bissau born winger flashed a first time effort narrowly wide of Austin’s goal. By this stage in the game Spurs has slowed down and they were keeping the ball inside their own half with short and simple passes as they began to tire. After Jamie Bowden lost the ball in a dangerous area to Kourouma Kourouma the substitute advanced into our penalty area before playing a quick one two with Marqués before Bowden had managed to get back to help Eyoma win the ball back before clearing it away from the danger zone. Dennis Cirkin was given a yellow card shortly afterwards before our goalscorer Troy Parrott was replaced by Rodel Richards for the final minutes of the game. And the 18 year old made an instant impact for Matt Wells side when he netted our second goal of the game a matter of moments after entering the field. It was a deserved winner for Spurs who had outplayed Barcelona for large periods of the game. The move stemmed from some good work by Jamie Bowden to win the ball off of Kourouma Kourouma down the left wing. The Tottenham midfielder then passed the ball to Roles who took the ball into the penalty area before going for goal. Roles’ effort deflected off of Alejandro Marcos Lopez but the substitute Rodel Richards had made a good run into the box and the forward bravely attacked the ball and got to it before Tenas to bundle it home, 2-0. This sparked scenes of jubilation amongst the Tottenham players and substitutes who all gathered together around one of the corner flags to celebrate Rodel Richards late winner. Defender Luis Binks came on for Dilan Markanday to bolster our defence for the final few seconds of the game however, it wasn’t to matter as the Finnish referee blew for full time shortly afterwards as Spurs secured a famous win out in Barcelona to book their place in next Monday’s play off draw. After the end of the match the Spurs players went over to our travelling supporters to applaud them, each and everyone of those players had broad smiles across their faces and they so should have, they were absolutely outstanding.

Player reviews:

• Brandon Austin: The skipper kept his third clean sheet of the season after our 2-0 win in Spain. Austin had a good game and the 19 year old made three saves during the match. I thought that his distribution was excellent as well as his anticipation of situations. A vocal member within the side, Austin also made a terrific stop with his feet to deny Antonio Solo’s header in the second half. Despite the fact that the Barcelona defender had been flagged for offside I still thought that Austin did extremely well to sort his feet out in time to make the save.
• Tariq Hinds: The speedy right back protected his side of the pitch well throughout Tuesdays match. The diligent Hinds kept the tricky Anssumane Fati in check for the most part of our 2-0 win. And whilst Hinds defended well he also went on some nice attacking forays of his own down the right flank. The 18 year old played a big part in Troy Parrott’s opener after he went on the initial run down the wing before then picking the ball up again after Oakley-Boothe was fouled, and passing it to Maghoma inside the penalty area who set up Parrott for the goal. Hinds also made an important headed clearance in the first half.
• TJ Eyoma: My motm, see below.
• Harvey White: The first year scholar put in an excellent shift at the unfamiliar position of centre half. White formed a particularly strong partnership with Eyoma in defence. He was attentive and alway maintained good positioning throughout the game furthermore, the 17 year old was good at closing down the likes of Marqués and Gonzalez in and around the danger zone. White’s near perfect passing out from the back helped Spurs to play the way that they wanted to play and from a creative point of view the Kent born midfielder was pivotal. White made a number of important defensive interventions and he was nice and commanding in the way that he defended against the Catalan side. He also whipped some nice balls into the oppositions six yard box.
• Dennis Cirkin: This was Cirkin’s first start in the UEFA youth league and he was the youngest member of Matt Wells side, but the left back later looked so assured in his defending against Barcelona’s talented right winger Konrad De La Fuente. The Dublin born defender did an excellent job at keeping the speedy American in check and his one on one defending against De La Fuente down the left flank was superb. Cirkin got up and down the pitch well but he always maintained good positioning throughout. The 16 year old made a perfectly timed sliding challenge on the American inside the Tottenham penalty area as well as a number of other important interceptions and blocks. Cirkin was nice and composed but he also played with real confidence and he kept onto the ball in tight spaces in a very Walker-Peters-esque way.
• Jamie Bowden: The central midfielder returned from injury in time to start our all important UEFA youth league clash. And the Irish Londoner put in another sterling performance in the middle of the park. Bowden used the ball intelligently with his simple but efficient passes and alertness to danger, the 17 year old slotted in really well into the holding midfield role. Bowden mixed up his passes as well as his play but what he didn’t do was hold onto the ball longer than he needed to, and this was important as it helped to keep things ticking. He was very positive in possession and his passing wasn’t negative in any way what so ever. Bowden played a big part in creating our second goal of the game. After showing the hunger to win the ball off of Kourouma Kourouma down the left wing Bowden travelled with the ball before passing it to Roles on the edge of the penalty area. And of course the Cyprus under 21 internationals resulting effort set up Rodel Richards for the winner.
• Tashan Oakley-Boothe: Like his slightly younger teammate Jamie Bowden, Tashan Oakley-Boothe was effective in central midfield. He held onto the ball well and he was adventurous, going on some lovely little driving runs through the middle of the pitch. Oakley-Boothe was tricky and it was his skill and ability to change direction so easily which helped him to get the better of the Barcelona players. The 18 year old would often drift out to the right wing and he always showed a real willingness to take on and beat players. His passing was also of a good standard.
• Dilan Markanday: The 17 year old played out on the right wing against Barcelona. And Markanday had another good game, and with his many twists and turns and searing runs he helped to create a lot of chances for the team. Hardworking and always willing to track back after him, the north Londoner showed a real desire to take on and beat Barcelona’s fullback José Martinez Marsà and he caused a lot of problems for the young Spaniard. Markanday was difficult to defend against because he was so unpredictable. The weight of his passes were sublime as was his first touch. In addition the second year scholar would often cut inside onto his left foot and look to test the Barcelona goalkeeper Arnau Tenas from range. One such curling effort flashed inches wide of the goal during the first half. You couldn’t fault Markanday’s performance in any way.
• Paris Maghoma: One of our best players on the day, attacking midfielder Paris Maghoma was so effective as a number ten. He was such a threat going forwards and the 17 year old made more successful take ons than any other Tottenham player against Barcelona. Maghoma was extremely positive with the ball at his feet and his trademark slaloming runs helped to open up the Barcelona defence. Maghoma was always on the move and constantly looking to make runs into the six yard box. He impressed with his passing and awareness and it was the awareness and the intelligence that he showed to cut the ball back for Parrott to score our opener which was his major contribution to the game. Maghoma is such an influential player and he really is a joy to watch. Maghoma linked up really well with centre forward Troy Parrott throughout the game and both players complimented each other.
• Jack Roles: The 19 year old played the entirety of Tuesdays 2-0 win out on the left wing. Roles worked exceptionally hard to make his mark on the game and he showed real guile. The Cyprus under 21 international got back at every opportunity to help out Cirkin down the left flank. Roles was heavily involved in the final third and he got the assist for Rodel Richards late goal.
• Troy Parrott: The 16 year old led the line superbly on Tuesday afternoon and he played well beyond his years. Parrott was a thorn in Barcelona’s side with his razor sharp movement, relentless pressing and willingness to go out of his way to help out the Spurs defence. The strikers goal was a simple but clinical finish to convert Maghoma’s unselfish pass. However, Parrott could have had more goals if he had been a little more selfish himself. He would peel off the Barcelona defenders and this made him a real aerial threat. In addition, he held the ball up extremely well and he was always aware of those around him. While he was excellent going forward it was his defensive work which left just as much of an impression. Parrott could often be seen helping out the Tottenham defenders inside our own half and he made a number of important blocks and interceptions.
• Armando Shashoua: After replacing Paris Maghoma in the 76th minute Shashoua brought with him a different energy. He got involved in the action and he helped Spurs to manage the game. Shashoua pressed aggressively.
• Rodel Richards: The forward made an instant impact after he came on for Troy Parrott in the 88th minute. An excellent late run into the penalty resulted in the 18 year old bravely turning home Jack Roles’ low effort. Richards really threw himself at the loose ball and it was that determination which resulted in him netting his fourth goal of the campaign.
• Luis Binks: The defender replaced Dilan Markanday during the final moments of the game and he helped to bolster the Spurs defence.

My man of the match: TJ Eyoma. The 18 year old centre half was flawless against Barcelona on Tuesday afternoon, and the Londoner was outstanding at RCB. Eyoma was always in position and it was his cautious no nonsense approach, which helped to quell the threat that Barcelona forwards posed. The England under 19 international anticipated danger to perfection, and some of the blocks and interceptions that Eyoma made were excellently timed. He never took unnecessary risks and rarely did he lunge in to try and win the ball. He was good in the air and on the ball, and as defensive performances go TJ was superb in every aspect of his game. He also put in a similarly excellent performance in the reverse fixture at Hotspur Way earlier in the season.

Barcelona: Tenas; Mingueza, Lopez, Sola (Bravo 74), Marsa; Gonzalez (Kourouma Kourouma 46), Jesus, Orellana (c); De La Fuente (Serrano 82), Marques (Peque 46), Fati (Mortimer 82). Substitutes (not used): Bano, Jardi.

Spurs: Austin (c); Hinds, Eyoma, White, Cirkin; Oakley-Boothe, Bowden, Maghoma (Shashoua 74); Markanday (Binks 90+1), Parrott (Richards 88), Roles. Substitutes (not used): Oluwayemi, Clarke, Pochettino, Okedina.

UEFA Youth League, Group B.

Goals: Spurs – Parrott 17, Richards 90.

Yellow cards: Barcelona – Mingueza 88; Spurs – Oakley-Boothe 6, White 34, 

Cirkin 85.

Referee: Antti Munukka (Finland).

Venue: Mini Estadi, FC Barcelona.

Spurs under 19’s statistics 2018/19:

Goals scored: Troy Parrott – 3

Jack Roles – 2

Rodel Richards – 2

Paris Maghoma – 1

Jaden Brown – 1

Malachi Walcott – 1

Assists: Jamie Bowden – 3

Troy Parrott – 2

Jack Roles – 2

J’Neil Bennett – 1

Jaden Brown – 1

Paris Maghoma – 1

Clean sheets: Brandon Austin – 2

Spurs under 19’s versus Barcelona: (match preview)

On Tuesday afternoon a couple of hours before our first teams huge UEFA Champions League game against Barcelona, Matt Wells under 19 side will also be contesting a must win game against the Catalans. That game comes in the final round of group games in the UEFA youth league, with a place in the knockout stages still up for grabs. After five group games Spurs sit in second place in the group on six points. However, after our last game against Inter Milan in which we suffered a surprise 4-2 home defeat to the Italians, Wells’ side will now have to go to the Mini Estadi and get the win against group winners Barcelona tomorrow afternoon, in order to progress to the play off round where they will meet a team from the domestic path of the competition. However, to achieve that feat Spurs will have to be at the very top of their game to overcome a Barça side who are unbeaten in this seasons competition. Although it is likely that Barcelona will make a number of changes from their last game against PSV under 19’s, the Catalan won’t want their unbeaten record in this seasons competition to come to an end. When these two met in the reverse fixture at Hotspur Way, Spurs were by far the better team. In fact Barcelona were lucky not to have beaten that day by a young Spurs side who controlled the game from start to finish. Some of Barcelona’s most talented players include highly rated centre forward Abel Ruiz who hasn’t been involved in any of Barcelona’s recent games, right back and captain Guillem Jaime and American winger Konrad De La Fuente who really impressed me during the game at Hotspur Way back in game week 2. It will be interesting to see how Matt Wells side will approach tomorrow’s game which is being shown live on BT Sport 2. Playing at the Mini Estadi in front of a big crowd by our lads standards will be a big test for our young lads. However, I have no doubts in their ability to overcome Barcelona on their own patch with their own exciting brand of attacking football. Unfortunately I will be unable to attend tomorrow’s game but I will be able to watch it on BT Sport and I shall write an in-depth match report which I will publish sometime on Wednesday evening. I wish all of our lads the very best of luck ahead of Tuesday afternoons important UEFA youth league game.

My predicted lineup: (4-3-3) Austin (c), Hinds, Eyoma, Binks, Brown, Bowden, Maghoma, Oakley-Boothe, Markanday, Parrott, Roles. 

Subs from: Kurylowicz, Lyons-Foster, Cirkin, White, A.Shashoua, Pochettino, Richards.

Injured/unavailable: Jonathan Dinzeyi, Phoenix Patterson, Enock Asante, Jeremie Mukendi.

Doubtful: Malachi Walcott, J’Neil Bennett, Maximus Tainio, Oliver Skipp (possible first team involvement), Brooklyn Lyons-Foster. 

Previous meeting: 1-1.

My score prediction: Spurs 3-2.

My one to watch: Barcelona’s 17 year old left winger Anssumane Fati who has scored one goal from his four appearances in this competition this season.