Spurs get narrow win in nervous encounter at the Lane

Spurs edged closer to sealing 4th spot earlier today by beating Bolton in our final home game of the season.

Bolton dominated throughout in what was a very nervy first half performance from the lads. Nakata hit the inside of the post early on and Ivan Campo fired over the bar from close range; but they couldn't find a breakthrough. Sam Allardyce's men closed us down very well high up the pitch, forcing us to knock it long, only resulting in it coming back down the field.

However a different Spurs team came out in the second half and those first half nerves seemed to have eased. Lee Barnard's introduction, due to Robbie Keane's ankle injury, surprisingly livened the team's performance as the tempo of the game rose. Danny Murphy and Michael Carrick both rose their games as we took over in the early part of the second half; involving Aaron Lennon more definitely helping our cause. And unlike Bolton, we took our chance when it came on 60 minutes when great play from Michael Carrick on the edge of the box set-up young Lennon, who got past the defender and slotted it home for 1-0.

That set-up a nervy finale to the match as Bolton piled bodies forward. Danny Murphy went off injured late on, something that helped the team as Calum Davenport came on, steadying the aerial battle between the two sides. Bolton - apart from a volley from Okocha spectacularly saved by Paul Robinson - hardly threatened our goal. Stelios Giannakopoulos was denied a penalty after he was seemingly brought down from behind by Michael Dawson, sending Sam Allardyce into a touchline frenzy.

We held on tight though, and wrapped up the three points, putting the pressure on Arsenal to win both their games in hand against Sunderland and Man City later on this week.

After the game, Aaron Lennon was named the Supporters Young Player of the Year after a string of dazzling performances. He was met by a thunderous reception by the Spurs faithful which remained at the Lane to enjoy the end of season party.

The Supporters Player of the Year award went to stand-in captain Robbie Keane, who limped over to the centre circle to receive his award. The players were treated to an incredibly deserved standing ovation as they completed their 'Lap of Honour'.

The day overall was an exceptional one as we moved 7 points clear of Arsenal, secured a top five finish, won our final home game but most of all, showed what we are all about; character, team-spirit and bouncebackability...