Tottenham Hotspurs FC are the Pride of North London
One of the most famous rivalries in English Soccer is the North London Derby. Contested between Premier League giants Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspurs, the derby has become one of the fiercest in the world of soccer.
Throughout the years, little brother Arsenal have dominated the rivalry. Being founded in 1886, four years after Tottenham, Arsenal have dominated the rivalry against their older rival. With 77 wins all time, the Gunners currently sit 29 wins above their North London rivals.
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Arsenal have held a significant advantage over Tottenham in the series recent history. Since 1982, Tottenham have failed to win consecutive matches against Arsenal. The advantage was extremely evident from 1996 through 2008 when Spurs won only one match against their rivals.
This marked the worst stretch for Tottenham against Arsenal and included a 21 match winless streak against their rival.
Having managed only one win in the last seven meetings, Tottenham came into this match against Arsenal with hopes of ending Arsenal’s dominance in the rivalry. With three of the Premier League’s top goal scorers, many felt Spurs had a chance against the Gunners.
The benching of star Alexis Sanchez by Arsenal also contributed to the confidence in Tottenham to win this match. Lacking Sanchez proved to be a back breaker for the Gunners. The side failed to muster many goal scoring opportunities and wasting most of the sides second half possessions.
However, Arsenal did hold a 1-0 lead at halftime. Pressuring from the get go of the second half, Tottenham finally broke the Arsenal backline when Harry Kane netted his eleventh of the season. Both sides continued to attack, both coming close to taking a go-ahead goal.
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It would take until the 85th minute for that goal to be found. Soon to be Tottenham legend Harry Kane struck again, heading in a cross from Nabil Bentaleb to put Spurs in front for good. Arsenal would continue to attack, coming close on multiple occasions but falling short in the end.
Man of the Match Harry Kane was serenaded by the home supporters after his performance. Taking a victory lap around the pitch, Kane received a standing ovation from the fans in attendance. With the win, Tottenham now sit above Arsenal in the standings.
Tied with Manchester United on points, Spurs sit outside Champions League qualification on only goal differential. Though Manchester United have a game in hand on Tottenham, the squad sit in their best position since the end of Harry Redknapp’s tenure as manager.
The chance at finishing above Arsenal should give Tottenham the push it needs to continue in its current form. Tottenham have not finished above Arsenal in the table since 1995.
For twenty years, Tottenham Hotspur supporters have waited finish above their rivals. Following the 2-1 victory over Arsenal, Spurs find themselves with a chance to do just that. Should the club continue in its current form, Tottenham will finally end that streak.
They say the simple act of waiting is the most punishing hardship a person ever has to face. Tottenham fans know this too well. For twenty years Tottenham have played second fiddle to Arsenal. For the first time in years, Tottenham have a chance to end it, and finally become the pride of north London.