It was Tottenham’s best performance since the hectic early months of Ange Postecoglou’s reign, as they dominated Manchester United for their fourth consecutive win in all competitions.
Just two weeks ago, the first serious doubts were being asked about Postecoglou, necessitating a late return for Spurs to beat Coventry City in the Carabao Cup, but this thrilling display and the way a team they see as their rivals was very nice to disassemble thoroughly and provide a convincing answer.
Spurs were full of quality, run and power from the opening whistle, and the finicky Postecoglou often held his head in his hands in agony or threw his hands in the air in frustration as he cut through United with ease. There were many times when Johnson, who often gave up, somehow failed to build on his early goals.
There were clear concerns that Spurs’ inability to raise money left the door ajar for United. Mr. Postecoglou need not have worried.
Fernandes’ red card helped the team’s cause, but United were where they wanted to be long before that. The deal was sealed when Kulusevski added the extra point, and Solanke’s third goal was the winning goal.
Johnson’s father David, who started his career at Manchester United and was watching from the director’s box, was understandably ecstatic at Johnson’s early strike. It was another strong response from a player who has been shaken by recent harsh criticism from Spurs fans.
He scored in four consecutive games, produced Kulusevski’s second goal, and played a key role as Spurs teetered on the brink of an uproar.
United had a rare moment in the second half, but it was Spurs’ day and they deserved a standing ovation from the jubilant fans at the final whistle.
