Speedy Spurs too hot for Wigan

12 April 2012

Two goals in 89 scintillating seconds inspired Tottenham to a 3-1 victory over battling Wigan at White Hart Lane.

Martin Jol's side had trailed to Henri Camara's 24th-minute opener but fought back in stunning style just prior to the interval through Jermain Defoe, his 50th in the Barclays Premiership, and Dimitar Berbatov.

Aaron Lennon completed the scoring in the last seconds of stoppage time to condemn Wigan to their first defeat in six games and help Spurs leapfrog them and move up to 10th place in the league table.

Tottenham began the game in sparkling fashion with Berbatov bringing a save out of Chris Kirkland within the first minute after some clever work on the right flank by the quick-footed Lennon.

Tottenham's early pressure failed to bring them the reward of an opening goal and Wigan, with four clean sheets in the last five games, were beginning to enjoy more of the possession.

The visitors deservedly opened the scoring in the 24th minute through Camara. A cross to the far post from David Wright gave Lee McCulloch the opportunity to head the ball back to Camara who despatched a volley into the roof of the net for his fifth goal of the season.

But two goals in 89 seconds put Spurs in front. In the 42nd minute Defoe put Spurs back on level terms when he finished off a neat move in style. Didier Zokora's through ball to Berbatov saw the Bulgarian striker lay the ball on to Defoe and the England forward's quick feet completely fooled Boyce as he turned and fired home.

Seconds later Berbatov put the home side ahead when he latched on to a pass from Benoit Assou-Ekotto and raced clear of Matt Jackson before lofting his shot over Kirkland.

In the 64th minute, a quick break out of defence by Lennon saw the England winger supply Defoe with a clever crossfield pass.

Defoe's skill let him down for once and the retreating Wigan defence managed to clear the danger but Lennon wrapped up a fine afternoon for the home side with the third goal in the last seconds of stoppage time.

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