The post-Bale era at Tottenham officially started with a victory as Christian Eriksen entertained the fans on his debut in a 2-0 victory over Norwich.
After failing to score from open play in their first three games – the last one a painful loss at Arsenal- there were concerns over the Spurs’ lack of creativity and killer punch in front of goal.
Those questions have been put to rest thanks to the skilful and dynamic display of Eriksen on his debut, he had a part to play in the two goals – both scored by Gylfi Sigurdsson- and the Dane fit perfectly into the squad even though he had only trained three times with the side.
Spurs dominated the opening 15 minute of the game but they were limited to long shots as the Canaries defence stood strong.
The home side gradually broke down the Norwich back line and Ericksen played an intricate part with that.
The Dane picked the ball off Rose and got past two Norwich defenders before firing a low shot which the goal keeper parried, Roberto Soldado backheeled the loose ball towards goal but he was denied by the woodwork.
Eriksen’s corner then fell into the path of MousaDembele, who got past Johnson to find Soldado but the Spaniard was denied again- this time by the out-stretched leg of Sebastien Bassong.
Spurs finally went ahead when Danny Rose picked up the ball of Dembele and slotted a pass to Eriksen who squared to Sigurdsson and he played it beyond Ruddy. An exquisite team goal that gave them the lead in 29 minutes.
The Norwich defence could not handle the pace of Rose and Townsend along the wings and these players piled on the pressure along the flanks.
AVB was frustrated at his team’s inability to secure a second goal and they almost paid for it when Jan Vertonghen lost his footing in his own box while marking Ricky Van Wolfswinkel. Luckily Rose had a foot in to deny the Dutchman.
Tottenham doubled their lead three minutes into the second half.
Ericken picked the ball up in the centre and played a pass to Paulinho, who fired a lowball through Ruddy’s hands to the back post and Sigurdsson was there to tap it in.
Tottenham played with the same flow and conviction as they had with Bale in their side last season. The passing and movement from Eriksen and Townsend were just too good at times.
Spurs almost scored a third when Sigurdsson fired a 30-yard drive at the palms of Ruddy, Townsend and Rose were unable to convert the free ball.
Van Wofswinkel had a great chance to pull one back for his side but Danny Rose put in a last ditch tackle to deny the Dutchman.
Eriksen and Sigurdsson received standing ovations when they came off and Lamela received a warm welcome on his introduction. Tottenham are now second with three wins in four games.
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