Tottenham secured a 2-0 victory over Auckland FC at Eden Park on Sunday, continuing their pre-season tour of New Zealand and Australia with a second straight win. Roberto De Zerbi's side followed up a 1-0 behind-closed-doors win against MK Dons with another comfortable display in front of a record crowd.
Dane Scarlett opened the scoring in the 12th minute, and Richarlison doubled the lead just past the hour mark. De Zerbi rested several key players after the long journey Down Under, giving starts to academy talents including Luca Williams-Barnett and Tye Hall.
Richarlison
Brazilian forward Richarlison made a timely case for his place in the squad by tapping home after good work from Mathys Tel down the left flank. He was unlucky not to set up Tyrese Hall for a goal after winning the ball back and crossing into the six-yard box. De Zerbi has admitted Tottenham remain in the market for attacking reinforcements despite spending more than £200 million on new signings, and both Richarlison and Scarlett could be sold as the manager looks to add more firepower.
Archie Gray
With a youthful starting lineup, Archie Gray was handed the captain's armband. The English midfielder had a hand in both goals: his in-swinging cross created the opportunity for Scarlett's opener, and his quick pass set Tel free for the second. Gray has been played across several positions at Spurs but restored to central midfield, he relished the opportunity. Speculation that he was assessing his options has faded as he appears to have earned De Zerbi's trust.
Malachi Hardy
Malachi Hardy is making a name for himself in pre-season, following a confident display against MK Dons with another astute performance. The 18-year-old centre-back impressed with his composure on the ball and timing of defensive interventions. Tottenham have yet to concede a goal in pre-season, and Hardy's performance has been a key part of that. De Zerbi has not placed great emphasis on youth, but Hardy is doing all he can to stake a claim for first-team involvement.
