‘Fantastic’ Drew Spence hailed as Tottenham Women earn point in North London derby
Tottenham Women star Drew Spence was heavily praised for her defensive performance as Spurs played out a 0-0 draw against Arsenal.
It was a resilient performance from the hosts, as they vastly reduced the Champions League holders’ chances throughout.
It was always going to be a tricky game, with Arsenal overwhelming favourites for the Tottenham clash.
However, an outstanding defensive display ensured that the points were shared, with Spence one of the standout performers.
Karen Bardsley: Drew Spence was fantastic
Since Martin Ho’s appointment at Tottenham, he has turned Spurs into a formidable outfit, and this was on show on Sunday.
However, up against their North London rivals, it was always going to be a tough task, with Arsenal having typically overcome Spurs without issues when the two sides have met.
The Champions League holders had scored 18 times in eight games going into the match, routinely dominating their opposition.
However, Spurs managed to drastically reduce the visitors’ chances, conceding only a 1.68 xG with Lize Kop managing to pull off some good saves to keep a clean sheet.
| Drew Spence stats vs Arsenal Women | |
| Minutes | 90 |
| Passing accuracy | 75% |
| Defensive contributions | 10 |
| Tackles | 2 |
| Clearances | 6 |
| Recoveries | 4 |
| Interceptions | 2 |
Speaking to BBC Radio 5 Live on 16 November, Karen Bardsley was impressive with how Tottenham managed Arsenal’s attack, highlighting Spence’s contribution in her praise.
She said: “It’s been very disciplined from a Spurs perspective.
“Drew Spence has made some fantastic blocks, screening passes and won her battles.”
What did Spence say after Tottenham’s draw in the North London derby?
The result for Tottenham Women ensured that they remain level on points with Arsenal in fifth.
In fact, thanks to Manchester United’s heavy defeat, Spurs are now just one point off the Champions League qualifiers in third.
As a result, speaking to Sky Sports on 16 November after the match, Spence was full of praise for Ho, who has managed to transform the Tottenham since his arrival in the summer.
She stated: “The whole team battled so well. It was a great, solid defensive performance.
“After the disappointment from last week, it was important for us that we gained that momentum again, and it was an important point in our journey.
“I think he [Martin Ho] has shifted our mindset. I think last year, we didn’t compete as much as we should have done, especially against the top four or five, so that’s been a massive shift for us this year.”
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