• Premier League

Crouch heads Spurs into Champions League

ESPN staff
May 5, 2010
Peter Crouch grabbed the headlines with his late goal © Getty Images
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Wednesday gallery

Peter Crouch nodded home a late winner to hand Tottenham a 1-0 win at Manchester City and with it a shot at the Champions League.

Spurs came into the game knowing victory over their nearest rivals would hand them a place in Champions League qualifying, which could still be bettered if they overhaul Arsenal, and Harry Redknapp's side were rewarded for an attacking display with a 1-0 win.

The contest flowed from the off and Carlos Tevez made an early signal of intent with a dazzling run that was thwarted by a fine save from Heurelho Gomes.

Spurs were by no means on the defensive and Crouch thudded a header against a post and Gareth Bale had a shot charged down.

Tottenham thought they had got their noses in front when the immense Ledley King, who dominated at the back, climbed high to head home but was penalised for a foul on Gareth Barry.

Gomes was a doubt coming into the game but proved the gamble over his fitness was worthwhile with two good saves from Adam Johnson.

Tottenham carried a threat throughout the second half and City were indebted to Marton Fulop who made stunning saves from Jermain Defoe and Peter Crouch.

But the keeper could do nothing to keep out the winner on 83 minutes. He could only parry a deflected cross into the path of Crouch and the giant striker showed excellent reactions to arch his neck and head home.

There was another game in the Premier League on Wednesday night and Matthew Etherington's late goal handed Stoke City a 1-0 win at Fulham.

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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