News

Tottenham player ratings vs Brighton as Xavi Simons shines but 5/10 struggles

football.london rates the Tottenham players following their X vs Brighton in the Premier League

Tottenham suffered heartbreak as Brighton snatched a last-gasp equaliser to leave them in the relegation zone with just five games to play.

Spurs were ahead on 39 minutes when Pedro Porro rose to glance home Xavi Simons’ excellent cross. The hosts, at that point, looked as if they would motor onto victory but of course, nothing ever comes easy when the Europa League winners are involved.

Brighton equalised in first-half stoppage-time when Kaoru Mitoma rifled in a sublime volley to stun the hosts. Xavi then scored a second-half stunner to put the north Londoners on track for a huge win that would have moved them out of the relegation zone.

But Georginio Rutter stepped up with just three minutes of injury time remaining to break Spurs’ hearts. Here are the full player ratings…

Antonin Kinsky – 7

Started really well, dealt with a corner then made a close-range stop to keep out Danny Welbeck.

Pedro Porro – 8

Set the tone early on and got himself on the scoresheet with a brilliant header.

Kevin Danso – 6

Made excellent last-ditch clearance to prevent Danny Welbeck from scoring. Made great block to stop Kaoru Mitoma’s shot too. Solid and nothing flashy for most of the game, but was arguably at fault for Brighton’s second.

Micky Van de Ven – 8

Led by example as captain and excelled. Strong on the ball and used it well, too. Huge improvement from recent weeks.

Destiny Udogie – 7

Udogie provided great balance and was a threat from the start. Had an early penalty shout waved away but attacked and overlapped with purpose.

Rodrigo Bentancur – 6

Made his return from injury and was solid enough, but not a standout performer.

Yves Bissouma – 5

Started well then faded and was hindered by a cheap booking. Lacked match sharpness, which was understandable.

Randal Kolo Muani – 6

Not a winger and was slow to react after Xavi Simons hit the post in the first half. Most of Spurs’ attacking play went down the left flank.

Conor Gallagher – 7

Showed signs of the Gallagher Tottenham thought they were buying. Pressed from the front and got further forward. Energetic and combative.

Xavi Simons – 8

Started poorly then grew into the game, notching a great assist for Pedro Porro’s opener before dancing inside and hitting the post. Quality in possession and scored a thunderbolt in the second half.

Dominic Solanke – 6

Mixed display. Protected the ball well at times but never looked threatening.

Subs

Archie Gray

Mathys Tel

Joao Palhinha

Lucas Bergvall

Djed Spence