Shamrock Rovers 0-4 Tottenham: Redknapp's side crash out of Europa League despite comfortable win

Tottenham Hotspur's 4-0 victory over Shamrock Rovers in Dublin was, in the end, in vain as Rubin Kazan's draw away to PAOK was enough to send the Russian side through to the next round of the Europa League at the expense of Harry Redknapp's team.

Steven Pienaar, Andros Townsend, Jermain Defoe and Harry Kane scored the goals to hand Spurs victory in an entertaining match, with the Irish champions playing their part and giving a decent account of themselves against Premier League opposition.

The skill of Stevn Pienaar provided the spark the visitors had lacked, and they found themselves a goal in front. The South African spun expertly on the edge of the box to work himself into space before firing a low shot into the bottom corner.

Spurs’ decision to switch Townsend to the left wing, with Pienaar moving central and Giovani taking the wide right role, had dramatically improved their prospects going forward. After a neat lay-off from Defoe, Townsend curled in a fabulous effort from the edge of the penalty area to double the Tottenham lead after 38 minutes.

Filled with confidence, Townsend continued to flourish, shooting just over the bar minutes later. The 20-year old then took Livermore’s pass in his stride before crossing low for Defoe, who turned and sent the ball past goalkeeper Richard Brush from close range for a 3-0 lead.

Spurs came out in the second half looking for the goals they needed to overturn the goal difference advantage held by Rubin, but Michael O’Neill, taking charge of his last Hoops game, was not about to let his side roll over.

Disappointing as it may be for Redknapp to see Spurs crash out at this stage of the competition, having reached the quarterfinals of the Champions League just last season, they will find themselves with plenty to focus on as they turn their attentions back to an intriguing Premier League campaign.

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