Poch pleased as Spurs struggle to see off Palace

LONDON: Mauricio Pochettino praised his players’ grit and determination after tottenham had ground out a 1-0 win over Crystal Palace.

Pochettino’s men went into the match on a high, having beaten Real Madrid 3-1 in the Champions League on Wednesday. But while they were unable to repeat the flair they showed against the European champions a goal from Son Heung-min was enough to get them the three points at Wembley. And that pleased their boss.

“It was a tough game for us after Wednesday. Palace were compact, narrow and playing on the counter attack.

We had the possession but not many chances,”

Pochettino said.

“They were fresh after one week to prepare for the game. We had a few problems after the Madrid game and that’s why I’m so happy with the victory. In the end, though, I’m very pleased with an important three points.

“It was always going to be a challenge today but it means a lot to pick up the three points. It’s a massive achievement for us to take us into the international break.”

The visitors, with just one previous victory to their name all season, really should have taken the lead as Serge Aurier gave the ball away to Andros Townsend. The Palace winger then fed Wilfred Zaha, who rounded Paulo Gazzaniga in the Spurs goal, only to fire wide of an empty net.

But just as it looked like Palace were getting in the ascendancy, Tottenham struck in the 64th minute.

Mousa Sissoko’s cross was not properly cleared and Son (pictured) delightfully picked his spot with a 20-yard left-foot shot that saw him score for the third time this season.