Tottenham Hotspur completed Matchday 4 in the Premier League with an entertaining clash against plucky promoted Nottingham Forest – and remain unbeaten thanks to Harry Kane.
Symbolic of the first half was Kane’s goal in the 5th minute. From the start, the courageous promoted team set the tone, but it was Spurs who were allowed to celebrate after a counterattack and a precise shot by the English striker. The home side also seemed to be more determined, clearer and more effective in their game. The more dangerous chances, however, were created by the visitors, who tried in vain to control the game but were strong on the counterattack.
But Forest were increasingly outpacing the passive Londoners in terms of opportunities. However, Lingard and record transfer Gibbs-White were unable to equalise in the first half.
Kane fails to clear Henderson – but still scores twice
After the restart, Nottingham picked up exactly where they had left off earlier: with a zest for the game going forward. Once again, however, the Garibaldi Reds lacked the last bit of luck – and almost increased the deficit. After Cook had cleared the ball with his hand in volleyball style, Kane took the penalty from the spot. But the usually so sure shooter failed to score against Henderson (56th), who only a short time later also kept his team in the game against Son, among others.
In the final phase, the in-form Manchester United loanee was powerless. A fine cross from the substitute Richarlison was headed in by the free-standing Kane from close range to make it 2-0 (81). It was the attacker’s 187th Premier League goal and he now shares third place in the all-time goalscoring list with Andrew Cole. Meanwhile, Spurs, who remain unbeaten, have also secured third place in the table.
We continue with an English week. Nottingham take on ManCity on Wednesday (8.30pm), with Tottenham’s city clash at West Ham United starting 15 minutes later.
