It Might be the Time that Spurs Get Going

Arguably the bigger half of London and Manchester met, (though Manuel Pellegrini and his troops might have something to say about that), Robin van Persie headed in the winner, in a match which some would say did not live up to expectations, especially for fans of the Gunners and neutrals alike. Arsenal failed to impose their authority on the game, and were sub-par at best.

Fast-forward two weeks, and the Wenger's men have extended their lead at the top to 4 points, courtesy of one Artur Boruc and his 'I wanna-be Leo Messi with gloves' moment of madness, but also down to the blockbuster down at Goodison Park. And what a match that was, I think we might all struggle to find a better 90 minutes all season. That was how good the game turned out to be, and if the notion that Jose Mourinho sent Romelu Lukaku to Everton so that he can cause Chelsea's rivals a certain degree of mayhem, then what a masterstroke it could turn out to be. But I don't think Jose did that, he's lost his verve since he returned to the bridge.

But enough of all this, I'm here to provide a bite-size preview of the game tonight at the Etihad.

For all out there who've read Robert Louis Stevenson's 'Jekyll and Hyde', Manchester City is the epitome of it. Swashbuckling at home, lethargic anywhere else. They did though, run Chelsea off the park at Stamford Bridge and but for Hart's rush of blood to the head, could've at least taken a point home.

For a team involving top internationals, City are not up to the standard which the Sheikhs would have demanded. An over reliance on Vincent Kompany has probably cost them big time, as they do not seem to have anyone capable of enforcing proper steel in the back line. Matija Nastasic is a bit lightweight for me, and does not command the defense enough in the absence of Kompany.

And Joe Hart, well, you might have to ask Joe Hart for some insight on how he'll perform.

Past the defence though, and City are ridiculously good. They were like knife through butter against Norwich, putting seven past the Canaries. The likes of David Silva, Toure, Aguero (who I think is the best striker in England now), and Alvaro Negredo will go about their duty. It's a question of whether or not Andre Villas-Boas can set his stall out from kickoff, and drum into his players what is needed tonight.

Paulinho and Dembele will be vital tonight. If that axis can stop the likes of Silva and Nasri, then Spurs might have a chance. Defoe has to start the game as I think Demichelis and Nastasic will have their cigar and a cup of latte if Roberto Soldado starts. He does not threaten the space in behind, something which Jermain Defoe dreams about.

Also, Andros Townsend and his pace will be essential for Spurs. He can stretch the pitch and have his trademark one-on-one runs against Gael Clichy. And Lamela should play on the opposite wing. With Christian Eriksen (if he's fit) behind Defoe, this match is set perfectly for Spurs. They haven't clicked yet this season, but I think it may not be too far.

The money which has been spent is bound to pay off, and I have a gut feeling that this might be the time they click. As long as the Lilywhites can keep the score tight approaching the hour mark, they'll have every chance of overturning City at their backyard. Spurs to nick it, 2-1. You heard it right.