Tottenham warned Tamworth star has undefendable ‘extra of a weapon than a nook’
Tottenham Hotspur’s makeshift defence have been warned about Tamworth’s secret weapon in the shape of non-league Rory Delap, Tom Tonks’ giant throw-in
Tottenham Hotspur’s makeshift defence will have to overcome an incredible secret weapon National League Tamworth possess.
Spurs head to fifth-tier Tamworth in the third round of the FA Cup on Sunday in what on paper, appears as straightforward of a draw as possible for Ange Postecoglou’s side. But the Lambs’ danger cannot be underestimated.
Tamworth reached the third round following a penalty shootout triumph over League One Burton Albion in the second round. Although it was their first-round victory against Huddersfield that caught the eye in the incredible way the winning goal came about.
The Lambs’ 1-0 win came thanks to an own goal from Huddersfield keeper Chris Maxwell, who was left flapping at the enormous throw-in from Tom Tonks. The 33-year-old midfielder launched the ball underneath the Terriers crossbar, leaving Maxwell unable to defend the throw-in with the keeper trapped on his line.
Tottenham have found themselves vulnerable to set pieces and their injury-hit defence as well as 21-year-old Antonin Kinsky set to make only his second Lilywhites appearance, does spell trouble. Tonks’ throw-in was called “more dangerous than a corner” by opposition players and the non-league Rory Delap could put the young Czech under pressure he’s never faced before.
“It’s difficult to defend because the trajectory of the ball is something you’re not used to,” Tonks told Football Focus. “We’re lucky at Tamworth because we have four or five six-foot-plus blokes who want to head the ball.”
Postecoglou is set to be without key defenders Destiny Udogie, Cristian Romero, Micky Van de Ven and Ben Davies, as well as Guglielmo Vicario’s absence between the sticks. Meaning versatile teenager Archie Gray is set to start at the heart of defence with Radu Dragusin.
Tamworth welcome Tottenham to the sold-out Lamb Ground off the back of just one win in their last five National League games and two in their previous ten league outings. However, form goes out the window for an occasion like this, with Tonks feeling confident ahead of the tie.
“What kind of preparation can you do for a Premier League team? We know they are all going to be excellent players,” Tonks added. “We actually fancy our chances against anyone at home. It’s different to what they are used to, the portacabins, the artificial pitch. Funnier things have happened in football.”
