Tottenham bounced back from a disappointing draw in the Europe League on Thursday night to inflict more pain on lowly Southampton whose defensive errors are costing them badly.

Just seconds after Jermain Defoe missed a sitter for the visitors, former Saints winger Gareth Bale headed a Tom Huddlestone cross back across goal and into the far corner to end a fantastic week for him personally after becoming a father.

Clint Dempsey then doubled Spurs’ lead before half time as Defoe’s shot was blocked on the line before the American strolled in to tap the ball home as Southampton’s leaky defence continues to struggle in the top flight.

Spurs dominated the first half of the game and despite only having one striker in their 18 man squad; they looked very dangerous going forward with the pace of Aaron Lennon a notable worry for the hosts.

Southampton however did try and get back into the game in the second half with Rickie Lambert recalled to the starting line-up causing problems with his physicality and heading.

It was Lambert’s strike partner Jay Rodriguez who poked home a consolation goal for the hosts though after Jose Fonte’s header was saved by the recalled Brad Friedel from a corner.

Spurs did manage to hold on for the vital three points after a late onslaught and Andre Villas-Boas’ team are now in the top four with Southampton still second bottom with just four points.

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