Which players impressed during Spurs’ U-23 match at Ebbsfleet

Football returned to action at the weekend with Tottenham’s under-23 squad taking on Ebbsfleet United at the Kufflink Stadium in Ebbsfleet.

The result was a 2-2 draw, with the Spurs development squad finding a late equaliser in the 83rd minute.

Ebbsfleet United opened the scoring through a header from Ayo Obileye just 15 minutes in. However, their lead was taken away early in the second half following an own goal from Jack Grimes after a scramble in the box.

Just one minute later, Ebbsfleet restored a one-goal cushion, with Aswad Thomas firing a rocket from 25 yards out into the top corner of the net. The match remained in Ebbsfleet’s hands up until the 83rd minute, when Elliot Thorpe of Spurs scored from a close range from goal.

Overall, it was a solid match for the squad and a few players stood out from the rest. We list the players who put up a good performance in Spurs draw against Ebbsfleet United.

Tariq Hinds

Tariq Hinds took his chance to shine in the absence of some of the usual key players in the U23 squad. Jamie Bowden and Harvey White were two noticeable absentees alongside many others who were selected to participate in training sessions at Hotspur Way last week.

Tariq Hinds who usually plays as right-back was shifted into central midfield and proved to be a versatile option if played in a similar role in the future. Hinds only played the first half in central midfield and was reverted to his usual right-back position for the second half.

He demonstrated a strong ability to play in multiple positions – a trait often admired by Mauricio Pochettino. Tariq Hinds, 19, could indeed flash up on Pochettino’s radar if he keeps up his versatile style of football.

Shilow Tracey

The 21-year-old right winger had a solid game against Ebbsfleet. Tracey demonstrated strong pace along the flanks and kept the Ebbsfleet defence honest.

In the first half, Tracey made a good effort to run into the box to have a shot on goal, which was unlucky to find the side netting.

Tracey didn’t have a monumental impact on the match, however he showed off a good level of potential to become great in the future.

Elliott Thorpe

He ultimately made the difference when it counted. Elliot Thorpe was deployed as a substitute in the 68th minute for Spurs, and within 20 minutes was able to find the much-needed equaliser for Spurs.

Spurs had made a few substitutes in the second half, notably with Kaziah Sterling entering the pitch in a bid to find the second goal. However, Sterling lacked the finishing touch. Instead, Thorpe provided the edge that the team needed.

Thorpe positioned himself just outside the six-yard box and was picked out by a fellow midfielder, allowing Thorpe to slot the shot in from close proximity.

Summary

It was a good outing for the development squad, and there is certainly a few talking points for the coaching staff in the senior team. A number of players who impressed will be looking to continue a solid run of form in hopes of becoming noticed by those higher up at the Club. Perhaps for a few, the 2018/19 season will be their breakout season.

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