Ange Postecoglou described Tottenham’s first-half performance against Arsenal as “just not acceptable,” and stated that their improvement after the interval was the least they could expect.
Arsenal won 3-2 at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in a spectacular north London derby that was a game of two halves.
Mikel Arteta‘s side raced ahead 3-0 in the first half, before Spurs made things difficult in the second half but were unable to score an equaliser.
It was a valiant comeback, but it was ultimately insufficient, and Postecoglou was quite upset with his team’ performance early in the game.
‘It’s disappointing,’ he told Sky Sports. ‘In our opinion, we gave them much too easy access to our goal; they only got there three or four times and scored three goals in the first half. It’s simply not acceptable, and we paid the price for it against a very excellent squad.
‘We shown resilience and fought back because we had no other option. We couldn’t come out in the second half without giving our supporters some hope. We did it. But it’s still incredibly disappointing.
‘We’re still not as resilient as we could be, especially during transitions or set-pieces. We provide way too simple access to our goal. They’re a good team, and they’ll punish you if you don’t defend your own goal with steel, which we didn’t do today.
Arsenal winger Bukayo Saka said things became sticky late on but praised his colleagues for getting across the line.
‘The last 20 minutes weren’t pleasant, but it was worthwhile! Saka informed Sky Sports. ‘We understand it is a significant derby, and they do not want to lose 3-0 at home. Momentum swung their way, but I am pleased of the players because we were able to get the three points.
‘We needed to remain cool, but everything was crazy. We demonstrated our level-headedness in the end, and I am proud of everyone; it was a great moment, and we understand what it means to the supporters.
‘It means everything, and it is a huge victory for us. We have three to go, and we will give it our all.’
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