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Hossam Ghaly took part in Tottenham
Hotspurs' latest friendly away to Birmingham City, and
managed to claim two assists to his name. The Egyptian
played the first 57 minutes of the game, and provided
Mido's replacement, Dimitar Berbatov, with two goals.
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Ghaly was heavily involved in the first
half for Spurs, possibly the most active player for
either team. His sharp, simple passing and his 'cleaning
up' of defensive situations were essential for Tottenham's
tight control of the game. This domination of play meant
that Birmingham City looked far from being the home
side. It was clear, however, that Ghaly had received
orders not to push too far forward, and his aerial abilities
were only ever utilised in the defence. Ghaly was often
seen to be the last man back in defence whenever Spurs
undertook any attacking set-pieces.
Spurs played with Defoe and Berbatov up front, supported
by Robbie Keane. The rest of the midfield consisted
of Tainio in the centre, with a holding pair of Ghaly
and Huddlestone, who worked very well together to snuff
out Birmingham's advances. Spurs attacking side backs
Routledge and Assou-Ekotto pushing forward constantly,
Ghaly and Huddlestone also had to cover on the sides,
and both performed well. King and Dawson at the back
were almost flawless.
After a number of half chances, Spurs' pressure paid
off. A free-kick was played to Ghaly who found Berbatov
well. The Bulgarian striker controlled the ball and
hit it low across Maik Taylor's goal. 1-0 to Tottenham.
The second soon followed, and Ghaly was involved again.
Some quick feet and good skills from Ghaly were followed
by a delightfully lofted pass to Berbatov. After controlling
it well, the striker hit a surprise volley towards goal,
which rattled off the underside of the crossbar and
into the net. 2-0. A super strike!
More half-chances followed for Spurs, with Birmingham
only looking dangerous on rare occasions through Pennant.
Ghaly continued to play well, and even had the chance
to shoot late on in the half, but his low shot went
wide.
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