Dempsey Scores in Loss

Clint Dempsey scored his fifth goal in as many games on Sunday, but it was merely a consolation strike for Tottenham Hotspur as they fell 2-1 to Leeds United at Elland Road and were eliminated in the FA Cup Fourth Round.

Spurs had 56 percent of the possession and outshot Championship-side Leeds 19 to 9, including at 12 to 4 edge in shots on goal, but struggled to finish with leading scorer Jermain Defoe sidelined with an injury.

Dempsey, who got the start alone up top with Defoe out, struggled to convert his chances early, but scored in the 58th minute to cut the deficit to 2-1. The U.S. International snuck past his defender at the near post to head a Gareth Bale cross inside the far corner.

Spurs had fallen behind in just the 15th minute when Luke Varney caught the Tottenham defense napping, sneaking in alone on goal off a pass from midfield before finishing past former U.S. International goalkeeper Brad Friedel.

The former New England Revolution star Dempsey had chances to equalize, but was unable to convert and Leeds doubled their lead in the 50th minute when Spurs were again caught flatfooted on defense. Ross McCormack beat the defense and pulled back in the box to create some space as Steven Caulker got back to defend. McCormack then curled a shot around Friedel and into the upper corner.

Dempsey cut the lead to one just eight minutes later, but, despite creating chances, Spurs were unable to find an equalizer.

Tottenham returns to Premier League action on Wednesday with an away match at Norwich. Spurs (12-6-5, 41 points), currently sit in fourth place as they try to claim a spot in next year’s UEFA Champions League.

One Comment