Rochdale: Juventus In Disguise?
Less than a week ago, Spurs marched out of Turin with their heads high after a 2-2 draw against Juventus. That game showed the spirit and character this Tottenham team is capable of.
Days later, they would travel to Rochdale with the same 2-2 result. The heads were not held as high. This game showed the complacency and lack of guile that has plagued the side when they haven't turned up. Rochdale are fighting relegation in League One. They fought hard and deserved their draw.
Poch changed all 11 players, but there was no excuse. The team fielded was far from a reserve side, and if we are honest our reserve side ought to be beating Rochdale. Toby Alderweireld looked a shadow of himself. Llorente seems to have left football behind him and forgotten to tell anyone he has retired. You can not just go through the motions and expect a result, especially against a team that is playing this like their cup final. The match was not without bright spots as Lucas scored on his full debut. Dele and Harry Kane looked to have saved the day, with Danny Rose giving an emotional shout out to Ryan Mason into the TV camera. The defense would not hold on for the final 90 seconds and Rochdale will get their day at Wembley. Tottenham is going to have to show a bit more desire to ensure it is Rochdale's only match at Wembley this season.