Roberto Soldado: Bagged his second penalty in two games
Roberto Soldado dispatched his second penalty in as many games as Tottenham laboured to a 1-0 victory over Swansea at White Hart Lane.
Spurs' record signing from Valencia this summer crowned his Premier League debut with a cool spot-kick against Crystal Palace last week, and he once again proved to be the difference as the home side dominated but struggled to break down a stubborn Swansea.
The first-half was a typically industrious encounter from either side as the midfield saw much of the action. Paulinho, who also impressed last week for Andre Villas-Boas' men, could have had a hat-trick early on if it wasn't for some last-ditch defending.
First, a clever turn opened up the centre of the pitch, allowing the Brazilian to exploit it and fire an attempt on Michel Vorm's goal after 8 minutes, but the Dutchman was equal to it.
Then came the first-half's best chance. Kyle Walker's roaming run down the right-hand side opened up gaps in the Swansea defence in the 21st minute, and the defender's low cross found the head of Ashley Williams, who luckily saw his clearance rebound straight off the post. Paulinho was first to the loose ball however, but his goalbound shot was blocked excellently by the recovering Williams.
Swansea did threaten Spurs' goal on brief occasions, with Wayne Routledge and Michu combining well to create an opening for the former to strike at Huge Lloris' goal, but the Frenchman was alert enough to make the save.
The first-half ended on a sour note as Spurs were adamant that Jonjo Shelvey's late challenge on Andros Townsend was inside the area, but referee Neil Swarbrick gave the free-kick, much to Spurs' chagrin.
Mid-way into the second-half it was a different story but the same actors however, as Townsend's bursting run was halted illegally by Shelvey in the 58th minute, leaving Soldado to sweep home his second goal in two games.
Swansea endeavoured for the remaining half an hour, looking for an equaliser against a stern Spurs defence. However, despite Pablo Hernandez's best efforts, the London side secured a second 1-0 victory in as many weeks.
More to follow.
Source : http://www1.skysports.com/football/live/match/295722/report