The View From The Lane: The Athletic FC's Spurs show Spurs squander reasons for optimism during second half performance vs Sunderland
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Jan 5, 2026 James Maw, a football journalist focusing on Tottenham Hotspur, and Dan Kilpatrick, a commentator and writer for The Athletic, join the discussion following a match against Sunderland. They highlight a promising first half overshadowed by a dismal second half, exploring how tactical shifts and substitutions impacted team performance. The duo criticizes Spurs' reliance on set pieces and discusses frustrating fan reactions. Additionally, they delve into potential managerial candidates and the team's need for improved attacking cohesion as they prepare for their next fixture against Bournemouth.
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First-Half Promise, Second-Half Fade
- Spurs produced a promising, energetic first half but collapsed after the break and surrendered momentum.
- The change mirrored past Mourinho-era games where Spurs sat deep and conceded late equalisers.
Scoring Reliant On Set Pieces
- Spurs haven't scored from open play in five Premier League games, relying heavily on set pieces.
- That trend suggests training focus and a worrying lack of cohesion in the final third.
Forwards Lack Cohesion
- Forwards lack cohesive interplay and often function like strangers rather than a unit.
- That deficiency magnifies the need for clearer coaching and tactical instructions.