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Seldom-used Russian sparks Spurs’ win

Comment: 0 October 21st, 2011 by: admin

ROMAN Pavlyuchenko surely knows the essence of pouncing on the opportunity when it knocks.

The Russian striker rose to the occasion when called upon as he knocked in the lone goal that carried Tottenham Hotspur over Rubin Kazan in the Europa League Thursday night.

Having been down in the pecking order of Spurs boss Harry Redknapp, Pavlyuchenko proved his worth and did not disappoint their manager who had nothing but praises after the win at joyous White Hart Lane.

The Russian’s marvellous free kick in the 33^rd minute was all the Spurs needed to lead Group A pool by two points.

“He’s a fantastic striker of the ball,’’ beamed a jubilant Redknapp.”He’s got two great feet. Technically he’s a top player – there was never any doubt about that. It was good to see him score.’’

Pavlyuchenko has disclosed his frustration of not playing regularly n the Premier League but his latest feat could change Redknapp’s plans for him.

The Tottenham boss heaped praise on the Russian only a day after saying he could leave the club in January for the right price.

“I will continue to take my chances when they are handed to me,’’ he said. “Right now I am not first choice for the Premier League but I start the Carling Cup matches and these European ties. If I score more goals and show what I can do, it might be different for me.’’

The victory gave the Spurs a boost ahead of their visit at Blackburn as they resume their league campaign on Sunday. Most of the Spurs’ first team were rested and Redknapp is confident of another positive result in their coming assignment.

On November 4, the Spurs visit Kazan for the next leg with Redknapp eyeing to field in a young team to face the Russians.

Pavlyuchenko picked up the ball after midfielder Danny Rose was halted on his tracks and then repositioned it before hammering an unstoppable shot in off the bar beating Rubin goalkeeper Sergei Rhyzhikov.

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