Spurs run over arch- rivals Arsenal in North London derbyerby
The last North London derby at White Hart Lane on Sunday confirmed what most people already know. One team is in the ascendancy while the other is struggling to rescue a floundering season. Spurs delivered an emphatic 2- 0 win over Arsenal. Appropriately enough, this win also confirmed that Spurs will finish above Arsenal this season, the first time in 22 years since the 1994- 95 season.
Both teams were desperate for a result, not just because it was the North London derby but because Spurs are chasing league leaders Chelsea while Arsenal, in sixth, need to stay in contention for the top- four places. As it is, the game wasn’t exactly a contest, because Spurs, missing a few key players, easily got the better of Ar- senal. If not for key saves from Petr Cech, the scoreline could easily have been much higher.
For Spurs, the rivalry has been a little one- sided, but still hard- fought, since the 201415 season with two wins and four draws. And with a young, hungry but experienced team, which challenged for the title last season before collapsing in the final few weeks, they may dominate this rivalry in years to come. Spurs boast a team that combines pace, power, youth and teamwork, all areas in which Arsenal are deficient. Of course, they will need to keep their key players away from wealthier suitors like Manchester City and Real Madrid.
The writing has been on the wall for Arsenal. They came in on a three- game winning streak, but labored to beat Middlesbrough and Leicester. Against Spurs, the Gunners reverted back to the mistakeprone and ineffective side from earlier this season. Gabriel’s reckless trip of Harry Kane in the box, which led to Kane scoring from a penalty, came mere minutes after Spurs had scored their first and reeked of desperation under pressure. On the other side, the likes of Mesut Ozil, Olivier Giroud and even Alexis Sanchez were unable to penetrate or threaten Spurs’ defense. In midfield, Spurs’ Victor Wanyama dominated, while his Arsenal counterpart Granit Xhaka looked woeful. The latter was bought for around 30 million pounds ($ 38 million) while Wanyama came from South- ampton for 11 million pounds. After Spurs went 2- 0 up, Arsenal were unable to raise their game and found themselves easily contained.
Whether Arsene Wenger stays or goes after this season, the team needs new blood and new ideas. Arsenal should even consider that keeping and offering pay rises to both Sanchez and Ozil might be a luxury. Spurs can continue their title chase but even if they fall short again, they are almost guaranteed of a bright future.