Football News

Tottenham’s 3-2 defeat at home against North London derby rivals Arsenal exposed a major issue that dogged Spurs all season. But Ange Postecoglou steadfastly refuses to follow a clear trend in modern football that could address his team’s significant weakness.

Two of Arsenal’s goals came from inswinging corners, the first an own goal from Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg in the 15th minute before a Kai Havertz close-range header before the interval.

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His goal marked the first time Spurs had fallen to a 3-0 deficit at home to their North London rivals since 1959.

But when Spurs fought back in the second half, Arsenal’s ability to defend corners at the death was crucial to preserving their lead.

Arsenal have scored 22 goals from set pieces and conceded six this season – including 16 goals from corners, the most from a Premier League team since West Brom under Tony Pulis in 2016-17 (16).

Spurs, meanwhile, have scored 11 from set pieces this season but conceded 14. The differential between the two sides’ set pieces this season is a whopping 19 goals.

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Tottenham’s defence for the opening goal was particularly problematic – with Spurs players ‘ball-watching’ and allowing attackers to run past them.

Paul Merson said on Sky Sports: “If you look every Arsenal player is behind. The Tottenham players are all watching, it’s the worst thing you could ever do as a defender.

“I wasn’t a defender, but I know the game. You can’t let those players get

Paul Merson Kai Havertz North London Arsenal