A combination of Spurs’ wastefulness in attack and Arsenal’s defensive resolve meant Gabriel’s 64th minute header was sufficient to secure the latter’s victory in an often-cagey North London Derby.
The injury to Martin Ødegaard and the suspension of Declan Rice gave Spurs cause for pre-match optimism that they could end their four game winless run against their arch rivals. This confidence translated into Spurs having the better of the early exchanges, however lacklustre play in the final third and Arsenal’s excellent defensive organisation meant that when the halftime whistle blew, there had been no clear-cut chances for either side.
Nevertheless, tensions boiled over in the 35th minute when Arsenal’s Jurrien Timber was controversially not sent off for a challenge on Spurs’ Pedro Porro. Whilst on second viewing via VAR this did seem the right decision due to a lack of momentum in Timber’s tackle, a pitchside melee ensued – resulting in a yellow for Spurs’ keeper Guglielmo Vicario.
Vicario’s yellow was one of seven dished out before half-time by North London Derby Day debutante referee, Jarred Gillett, a new record.The second half continued in much the same vein as the first, with Spurs dominant in possession, yet offering almost nothing in front of goal, until Gabriel headed home a corner that Vicario had failed to claim.
This continued a worrying theme for Spurs under Australian manager, Ange Postecoglou, having conceded the second most goals from set pieces since he took over at the start of last season. Arsenal’s sublime defensive record – only conceding three away goals in the League this calendar year – further adds insult to injury in light of their rival’s defensive frailties. The result leaves Arsenal second in the League, two points off leaders Manchester City, whilst Spurs, having lost their past two games, remain 13th.
In spite of this, Postecoglou defiantly declared that he would bring silverware to White Hart Lane this season. Before their next Premier League fixture home to Brentford next weekend, Spurs travel to Coventry for a midweek EFL Cup tie. Arsenal travel to Atalanta for their first game of the new Champions League season, before a top of the table clash away at Manchester City on Sunday.
“Arsenal vs Tottenham – London Our City” by wonker is licensed under CC BY 2.0.