Tottenham vs Manchester United - Preview

   Match day 26 was extremely polarizing for the 2nd and 3rd placed sides.  

Recap: Manchester United 2 – 1 Norwich

Manchester United grabbed all three points thanks to a late close-range finish by Ryan Giggs, as the Red Devils squeezed past Norwich City 2-1.  The result did not come easy, considering the match tittered back and forth for most of the 90 minutes.  Aside from keeping the pace with Manchester City, the win was a huge confidence boast for goalkeeper David De Gea.  While the Spaniard has been in and out of form of late, his point blank save on a Grant Holt header and denial on a blast by Steve Morrison proved to be the difference when the final whistle blew.

Recap: Arsenal 5 – 2 Tottenham

Tottenham, however, were victims of the Theo "Second-Half" Walcott at the Emirates.  Despite jumping out to a two-goal lead, manger Harry Redknapp watched as Walcott, RVP and Alex Song picked apart his side.  While Redknapp’s decision to bring on attacking midfielder Rafael van der Vaart and holding midfielder Sandro seemed a smart move, it was all for not.  In fact, Arsenal scored within five minutes of the duos introduction.  The goal was the stone that broke the camels back as Gunners went on to bang in five unanswered goals.  The biggest issue with the defeat, aside from squandering a two-goal lead, was a lethargic defensive display by Spurs’ backline during the second half.  The one bright spot was the performance of Scott Parker, who throughout the match was forced to make field runs to cover for a disinterested defense.  Call it a top-notch 45 minutes by Arsenal or a bad performance by Spurs, either way Redknapp’s side needs to bounce back at White Hart Line.

Tottenham vs. Manchester United Preview

Manchester United’s away form has truly shined this season, having calmed a total of 10 victories away from Old Trafford.  Their ability to continue this caliber of form is something they must do in order to keep pace with Manchester City, who holds a five-point lead over the Red Devils in the table.  This makes the trip to White Hart Lane a must-win, however, United will likely be without crucial center-back Chris Smalling.

Tottenham might be playing at home, but they will do so without some key players.  Redknapp must filled replacement in the midfielder, with Scott Parker suspended and Rafael van deer Vaart out injured, and field a backline without Ledley King and Kyle Walker. 

Manchester has the edge for a few reasons.  The Red Devils are in peak form while the list of those unavailable for Tottenham will force Redknapp to field a depleted side.  In short, United should take all three points.

Prediction: Manchester 3 – 1 Tottenham