Mame Biram Diouf was denied twice by Hugo Lloris in superbly reflexive form but he could not be stopped a third time as he flashed his head against a Steven Ireland cross and connected leaving Lloris no chance. More damagingly for Spurs, his goal completed Stoke’s comeback after the hosts found the net through Eric Dier and Nacer Chadli before the half. Both Lloris and his Stoke counterpart Jack Butland brought off some spectacular saves.
Stoke started turning things around with the introduction of Steven Ireland the MOTM of the match and Joselu, the Spanish acquisition making his debut. In the 78th minute, Ireland’s impeccably measured pass found the forward who took the ball into the edge of the box and as he turned, Toby Alderweireld fouled him. Referee Robert Madley pointed to the spot. Marko Arnautovic, in for Charlie Adam made no mistake. Five minutes later, Stoke were level with Ireland providing that vital assist.
Spurs who had a penchant last season for scoring late goals could not score and it was Stoke with Ireland missing a golden chance coming closest to pulling off a historic win. Poor defending by Spurs cost them as it did last season conceding the most goals save for four other sides. And the other question. What does Erik Lamela bring to the side?
Here are the higlights.