Tottenham came from behind to beat Brentford and move into the Premier League’s top four after an entertaining London Derby.
Neal Maupay opened the scoring for Brentford who led at half-time, though the Frenchman’s mocking of Spurs star James Maddison’s dart-inspired celebration came back to haunt him after the break.
Spurs scored three times inside eight minutes to take control of the contest, with Destiny Udogie, Brennan Johnson and Richarlison all on target. The former’s mistake then set up a nervy finish, as a poor back-pass was capitalised on by Ivan Toney to bring Brentford back into the game.
Ange Postecoglou’s side held on to climb above Aston Villa, beaten at home to Newcastle on Tuesday, and into the Champions League places.
Postecoglou said Friday’s FA Cup exit to Manchester City had showed his team ‘have a long way to go’ and criticised his players for getting involved in confrontation with Brentford in a fiery game.
“It’s a young, maturing team. Friday showed we have a long way to go and tonight was another test. Arguing with the opponents isn’t going to help us.”
Postecoglou did praise goalscorer Richarlison, who continued his fine form in front of goal, and January signing Timo Werner, who he believes will get better and better in a Spurs shirt.
“He (Richarlison) worked his socks off for the team, his hold up play was exceptional against strong defenders. Getting goals when Sonny (Son Heung-min) is away is important.
On Werner, he added: “I don’t think we helped him in the first half, didn’t give him enough of the ball. We have some fantastic players, and Timo is proven at this level, he will keep getting better.”
