Tottenham Hotspur 2 Wisla Krakow 1

Last updated : 18 September 2008 By Footymad Previewer
In-form Darren Bent grabbed a second-half winner for Tottenham as Juande Ramos' side struggled to an unimpressive 2-1 UEFA Cup victory against Wisla Krakow at White Hart Lane.

It was the former Charlton Athletic striker's third goal in as many games, but once again Ramos' side flattered to deceive for long periods.

Rock-bottom of the Premier League after securing only one point from their first four matches of the campaign, Spurs looked devoid of confidence against last season's runaway Polish champions.

Spurs had started brightly though with Jermaine Jenas setting up David Bentley inside the first minute only for Wisla goalkeeper Mariusz Pawelek to block the ball as Bent looked set to add the finishing touch.

When the Poles responded, Radoslaw Sobolewski's long-range effort curled narrowly wide while at the other end, Pawelek kept Jonathan Woodgate's effort out at the second attempt.

Former Blackburn midfielder Bentley finally gave Spurs a 33rd-minute lead, beating Pawalek with a sweet strike after being set up by Giovani Dos Santos and Aaron Lennon.

However, within 60 seconds the visitors were level. Rafal Boguski beat Gareth Bale before crossing for Tomas Jirsak to smash his shot past Heurelho Gomes.

The Spurs keeper then had to be alert to keep out Boguski's shot as Ramos' side threatened to capitulate before the break.

Bentley went close after the interval before Bent had an effort ruled out for offside. However, the 24-year-old did eventually get on the scoresheet in the 73rd minute when he headed home Fraizer Campbell's cross.

Spurs threatened to add a third goal in the closing stages with Bale and Ledley King both going close, but their cavalier approach almost cost them dear as, with four minutes left only a fine Woodgate tackle stopped substitute Andrzej Niedzielan making it 2-2.