Tottenham Hotspur are currently in control of the battle for fifth place in the English Premier League, thanks to a fantastic goal by Rafael van der Vaart. The Dutchman has been one of the signings of the season in the Premier League, and he's strengthened that status with his 13th league goal of the year. At halftime, Spurs are up on Liverpool by a score of 1-0.
Liverpool Vs. Tottenham Hotspur: Rafael Van Der Vaart Goal Gives Spurs Halftime Lead
The goal came off of a corner kick, but not in a traditional fashion. After Luka Modric sent the ball into the box, it was deflected out to van der Vaart. He hit a looping shot from 20 yards out and it got up and down quickly, giving Pepe Reina no chance to make a save.
Other than the goal, there were a couple of interesting incidents in the first half. On the 20th minute, Luis Suarez was called for a foul on Michael Dawson, but Suarez thought the big central defender went down easily. He urged Dawson to get up with a light kick, certainly with no violent intent. Spurs fans wanted to see red while the Anfield crowed booed Howard Webb's decision to show Suarez a yellow card. In the end, Webb almost certainly got the decision correct, as Suarez's behavior was unsporting, but not violent.
Liverpool had a good chance to equalize in the 39th minute, but Andy Carroll squandered the opportunity. Central defender Martin Skrtel made a spectacular run and cross, floating a ball toward's Carroll's head, but the target forward missed his mark terribly.
European football is at stake for both teams, so expect a second 45 minutes of action and tough play.
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