January 06, (THEWILL) – A long-range strike from full-back Pedro Porro was enough to secure Tottenham Hotspur a narrow 1-0 home victory over Burnley in the third round of the FA Cup late on Friday. The Spanish defender’s 25-yard rocket in the 78th minute spared Spurs’ blushes after an uninspired display at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
Ange Postecoglou’s side dominated possession but lacked the cutting edge against Vincent Kompany’s charges, who produced a resolute defensive performance. Clear-cut chances were few and far between in a drab opening period, with Burnley’s Anass Zaroury coming closest but firing over.
The second half followed a similar pattern as Spurs toiled in attack, with January signing Rodrigo Bentancur fortunate to avoid punishment for a strong tackle. As the game drifted towards extra-time, Porro seized the initiative by dispossessing Burnley substitute Ameen Al-Dakhil and unleashing an unstoppable drive from distance.
Clarets goalkeeper Arijanet Muric made a fine late save to deny Ryan Sessegnon, whilst the visitors almost snatched an equaliser when Zeki Amdouni volleyed wide from a corner. Ultimately though, Porro’s magical strike was enough to clinch Spurs’ place in Monday’s fourth-round draw.
The result means Burnley can now focus fully on avoiding an immediate return to the Championship, whilst Tottenham’s attentions switch back to domestic cup success under Postecoglou as they seek a first trophy in event times.
About the Author
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
