Werner Commends Support as Opening Goal Spurs Victory
Timo Werner praised the support of his team-mates after his first Tottenham goal sparked his side’s comeback win over Crystal Palace. The victory moved Tottenham within two points of fourth-placed Aston Villa, boosting their hopes of qualifying for the Champions League.
Werner had failed to convert a chance when played clean through in a forgettable first half. However, his team-mates stood behind him at half-time and encouraged him to keep going. Their support helped him regain his confidence and ultimately led to his goal.
“It always feels good that you have a group that says nothing about it. They were supportive. It helps me and the whole team,” Werner said.
Werner tapped in Brennan Johnson’s cross in the 77th minute to score Spurs’ equalizer. Cristian Romero then headed in James Maddison’s cross, and captain Son Heung-min swept home to seal the victory.
“To miss two of these chances in one game would be terrible so at the end I am very happy I could score the goal,” said Werner. His goal was his 11th in 62 Premier League games after an underwhelming spell at Chelsea between 2020 and 2022.
Had Spurs been beaten, their season under manager Ange Postecoglou would have been in danger of petering out, given they are already out of all cup competitions. Instead, they remain within touching distance of Aston Villa with a game in hand as they hunt a top-four finish, which will guarantee Champions League football next season.
Werner was handed a fifth league start since joining Spurs, and although he missed a chance in the first half, he was a constant threat to Crystal Palace. Postecoglou praised Werner’s general play and aggressiveness.
Palace, who had defended solidly until that point, switched off at a throw-in, allowing Romero to head in Maddison’s cross. Palace manager Oliver Glasner remained positive despite the loss, taking heart from their performance under his leadership and the goalscoring return of Eze.
Spurs have now scored in 38 league games in succession, giving them hope in their Champions League pursuit. Palace, on the other hand, can take confidence from their performance and hope for the future.
Player of the match was Brennan Johnson, who had an average rating of 7.86.