Tottenham defeat QPR to go fifth in the Premier League

Tottenham defeated QPR 3-1 at White Hart Lane earlier today to go fifth in the Premier League.

Spurs made a strong start and took the lead in the 20th minute.

Winger Aaron Lennon played the ball to Gareth Bale on the left-wing and the Welsh ace fired a low effort past Hoops Paddy Kenny from the edge of QPR’s area.

Tottenham continued to have the better of the game and doubled their lead in the 33rd minute. Dutch playmaker Rafael Van Der Vaart made it two with a low effort from just inside the area after Ledley King’s inadvertently directed the ball to the Dutchman.

QPR had a bit of the ball just before half-time but they never really looked like getting back into the game. In truth the visitors struggled to get hold of the ball in the first period.

They did get back into the game in the second half though and got a goal back in the 62nd minute. Striker Heidar Helguson headed a corner back across the face of the Spurs goal and strike-partner Jay Bothroyd headed home from close-range.

Tottenham restored their two-goal lead in the 72nd though. A lovely passing move involving Aaron Lennon and Gareth Bale resulted in the latter curling home a superb effort into the top corner of the net from the edge of the QPR penalty area.

QPR had two late efforts cleared off the Tottenham goalline in the dying minutes but couldn’t get back into the game. The victory meant that Tottenham are now unbeaten in seven games and are in good form.

Inconsistent

QPR have struggled for results in recent weeks, last weekends 1-0 victory over nine-men Chelsea aside. Neil Warnock’s side have been inconsistent but that’s understandable considering the amount of new players that arrived late in the summer transfer window. It seems they need more time to gel.

I’m sure the team will gel sooner rather than later. I don’t think they will be relegated but the Hoops form really needs to pick up soon.

Strong

Tottenham are looking very strong this season and their recent form has them right in the mix for the top four of the Premier League. The quality of their play is currently fantastic and they are playing with real style.

Bale

Welshman Gareth Bale has found his form in recent months. I thought he was overhyped at times last season but he is starting to live up to the hype he received last season. Bale has declared that he wants to play at next years Olympics and if he is fit and healthy at the end of the season I think he should be selected.

Talented

A few weeks ago I wrote an article asking if Dutchman Rafael van Der Vaart was worth the trouble he causes and I think his recent performances have answered my question. He has been superb and could be the key to his side getting a Champions League spot this season.

Momentum

Tottenham have built up some really good momentum and currently I would back them to claim a place in the top four of the Premier League. I’m sure QPR will enjoy better days and a result at White Hart Lane was a tough ask.