Tottenham 2-1 Arsenal
Gareth Bale scored Tottenham's vital second goal
Wednesday, 14, Apr 2010 09:37
By Matt Hallam.
Danny Rose hit a wonder-goal on his Premier League debut as Tottenham overcame Arsenal 2-1 in the North London derby at White Hart Lane.
Harry Redknapp handed the 19-year-old winger his first start in the league and his decision paid off when he hit a 30 yard volley past Manuel Almunia to give Spurs a half-time lead.
Gareth Bale made it 2-0 immediately after the break to stun Arsenal, but the introduction of Robin van Persie revived the Gunners with Nicklas Bendtner pulling a goal back late on.
Tottenham managed to hold on to secure their first victory over their rivals in over ten years though thanks to the heroics of goalkeeper Heurelho Gomes who made a series of late saves to deny Van Persie and Sol Campbell.
Victory would have taken Arsene Wenger's side above Manchester United, however the defeat leaves them six points adrift of Chelsea and looks to have effectively ended their title dreams.
Arsenal began the game brightly and won an early corner from which Campbell had a fumbled effort cleared off the line by Benoit Assou-Ekotto.
The home side took the lead after ten minutes though when Almunia's punched clearance fell to Rose, who smashed a glorious 30 yard volley over the stranded Arsenal goalkeeper.
And Arsenal's problems soon began to mount when Thomas Vermaelen was forced off with an injury and replaced by Mikael Silvestre.
Bendtner had a golden opportunity to level the scores when he was played through by Tomas Rosicky but his first touch was poor and he dragged his shot wide of the post.
Arsenal continued to dominate possesion, but they struggled to create with Tottenham's midfield giving them little time and space.
And Spurs almost scored a second before half-time after a quick break put Luka Modric through on goal, only for Almunia to rush off his line and deny the Croatian.
The Arsenal goalkeeper could do nothing to prevent Bale doubling the home sides lead immediately after the break though when Jermain Defoe picked out the Welshman who slid a cool finish inside the post.
Arsene Wenger introduced Theo Walcott in response but he had little joy down the right as Arsenal continued to struggle to get in behind the Tottenham defence.
Van Persie brought a cutting edge to Arsenal's play in the final 20 minutes on his comeback from injury.
He was twice denied by Gomes but the Dutchman laid on a vital pass for Walcott to cross into the box where Bendtner was waiting to slide the ball into the goal and ensure a nervous finish for Spurs.
Tottenham managed to hold on though for their first victory over Arsenal in the league in 20 attempts.