Newcastle 1-2 Spurs - pundit's view

Post-match views from ex-professionals, pundits and members of the media - first up for 2018/19, former Ipswich, Charlton and Republic of Ireland midfielder Matt Holland with his thoughts on our 2-1 opening day win at Newcastle in the Premier League on Saturday.

Matt joined Jon Champion on the international TV commentary for Premier League Productions at St James' Park. 

Matt Holland

- Played over 600 matches for West Ham, Bournemouth, Ipswich and Charlton
- Capped 49 times by the Republic of Ireland, played at 2002 World Cup
- Regular pundit on talkSport

"I think Spurs will be delighted, particularly on the back of knowing the World Cup players haven’t had a full pre-season and the semi-finalists only a few days’ training. They’ve come to a difficult fixture – and Newcastle pressed hard in the second half – and come away with three points, a great start.

"Spurs were in control of the game in first half, dominated, could have been a further ahead really. In the second half they had to dig in, defend well and they made some good blocks, Jan Vertonghen made a key block right at the end from Rondon. They fought hard and it was good to see young Luke Amos come on late, that shows a lot of faith from the manager.

"Overall, a lot of positive signs there for Spurs."