Europa relief for Redknapp

Tottenham manager Harry Redknapp says he feared defeat when his side went behind to Shamrock Rovers in the Europa League on Thursday.

Stephen Rice opened the scoring for the Irish side early in the second half, stunning the hosts at White Hart Lane.

But quick-fire goals to Roman Pavlyuchenko, Jermaine Defoe and Giovanni dos Santos saw the London side triumph 3-1 in their Group A encounter.

Redknapp said Rovers’ goal made him feel a boilover was on the cards, before his side produced a calculating response to the early setback.

“When we went one down you’re concerned because you think maybe it’s going to be one of those nights,” Redknapp said.

“We came in at half-time 0-0 and not being disrespectful to Shamrock Rovers, they were excellent, worked their socks off and they played OK, they made it difficult for us.”

“But we could have been a few goals up at half-time. We’ve hit the woodwork, the ‘keeper is making saves.”

“But I was pleased how we played first half, I’ve got no problems. The tempo was good, we go after them and played some nice stuff around the box.”

“I thought it was a matter of time before we scored but then they went and scored with their first real strike at goal. Then you think maybe it’s one of those nights. Then we go and stick a couple away and finish it.”

Redknapp was full of praise for Shamrock, endorsing their style of play, and he tipped them to pick up points in the group stage, given they are well led by manager Michael O’Neill and assistant Jim Magilton.

“They’ll get a result somewhere along the line. They had chances in the first game, we watched the video.”

“They’ve got the Greek side (PAOK) at home. They’re a great side, Michael has done a good job with them with Jim’s help,” Redknapp said.

“They’ve got great support, their support were magnificent tonight. They’ll get a result. We’ll look forward to the day we go over to play in Ireland. It’ll be a great atmosphere and great place to play.”