This was probably the biggest test for us so far under Martinez, and unfortunately we completely failed it. Lucky in the end to come out with the point. Yes we should have had a penalty, but aside from that we didn't even test their goalkeeper other than Deulofeu at the end and that was hardly a clear-cut chance. Lukaku completely played out of the game by Spurs and like I feared before the game, both Baines and Coleman completely anonymous with their full backs pressing them into our half most of the game. Very disappointed with Martinez for starting Osman, but hopefully yet another pathetic performance will see him jousted from the XI for the Palace game. Just worried he'll call on him for the game against the ****e regardless of what happens at Palace; gutted. Barkley was head and shoulders above Osman when he came on. I have no problem with Leon playing his part, but that part now is from the bench. Everybody can see it, aside from the manager, it seems. Get it sorted.
Again we were sloppy in defence with more silly mistakes, just happy Soldado didn't look interested in playing football today. Why won't Martinez sort out the defence and realise they aren't technically good enough to Barcelona it around the back line?
Barry and McCarthy I thought were OK today, but we really had no creativity whatsoever in there today. The amount of times one of them had the ball and went in a little circle trying to look for a mover was unreal. Are we really pinning all our hopes on Barkley and Lukaku to fire us up the league? It's gonna suck next season isn't it, with Kone leading the line. Christ, doesn't bear thinking about!
All in all, we took a point against Spurs, which if away from home would represent a good result. But we got badly bummed by them for most of the game so I guess we should be relieved and move on to the next one.
Incidentally I believe we're capable of taking three wins on the spin now if we really want to and certain players get a kick up the arse (Mirallas, even Baines and Pienaar) and realise if we put another run together it really could turn into an ace season.
Ratings today, and as we're 10 games in, for the season so far:
Howard - 7 and 8 - Brilliant start to the season for our fake number one.
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Coleman - 6 and 6 - Subdued start to the season. Could have given away another pen today, although would have been harsh. Could avoid these situations though with better positioning.
Jagielka - 7 and 7 - If his distribution was better he'd really be a top, top centre back. Solid enough though.
Distin - 7 and 7 - Pretty much identical form to Jags.
Baines - 6 and 7 - Scored some vital goals, but had, for me, too many very quiet games so far. Would I sell for 20m to United if it meant us getting two decent players in? I'm warming to the idea... although it'd be a massive shame to lose him. Beggars cannot be choosers.
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Mirallas - 5 and 6 - Poor today, and for me is way below par this season. He's not missing Felli is he? Poor decision making and general ineffective play. Needs a rocket up his arse. We all know he can be ace when he wants to be.
Barry - 7 and 7 - Solid and just does what needs to be done. No arguments for me, and it an automatic starter.
McCarthy - 7 and 7 - As with Jags and Distin, him and Barry for me are much of a muchness. Do we need two defensive midfielders all the time though? I guess when the other option is the next guy I will come to...
Osman - 5 and 5 - Poor, and has been all season. His legs have gone. No further comment.
Pienaar - 6 and 6 - Hasn't played much and perhaps isn't fully fit. But he's getting no younger. Don't think he'll be an automatic pick after this season.
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Lukaku - 6 and 8 - Has been an inspired signing but was brilliantly marked out of the game today.
Subs:
Barkley - 7 and 8 - Half changed the game with his positivity today. Should be in the XI even when not as fit as Osman, as it's like having 10 men with Leon in the team.
Jelavic - No comment.
Deulofeu - 7 and n/a - Did well today but still learning and hasn't played to be able to judge on his 'start' so far.
