The Daily Star Ireland
In one of the most exciting FA Cup third-round matches, topflight club Tottenham Hotspur escaped a huge upset at the hands of fifth-tier Tamworth FC, winning 3-0 after extra time.
Tamworth, of the National League, proved to be quite stubborn opposition throughout the match. With the two teams an incredible 96 places apart in the English football pecking order, Tamworth held Spurs scoreless during regulation time. The Lambs’ defense proved solid, particularly with players such as Haydn Hollis turning in performances that included a Zinedine Zidane-esque roulette.
The goal that broke the deadlock came in the 101st minute-an own goal by Nathan Tshikuna-gave Tottenham the lead, with Dejan Kulusevski and Brennan Johnson later adding a goal each to seal Spurs’ passage into the fourth round. The scoreline belies the fact that the match was keenly contested, with Tamworth creating a number of chances that had the Tottenham rear guard scrambling.
The match rekindled debate over the FA Cup’s recent decision to do away with replays for drawn matches. A draw would have meant a replay at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, a lucrative opportunity for lower-league teams like Tamworth. Fans were quick to question the rule change, citing the financial and exposure benefits such replays bring to smaller clubs.
While Tottenham advances in the FA Cup, Tamworth walks away with dignity, having played admirably skillful and determined football against top league opponents. The performance of the team speaks volumes about the magic of the FA Cup, where underdogs can challenge the giants of the beautiful game and make moments to remember and inspire both the fans and the players.
