Tottenham Hotspur: Carling Cup Champions

Particularly after praising manager Juande Ramos transfer exploits, it felt really nice watching Tottenham secure their first trophy since 1999, defeating Chelsea yesterday in the Carling Cup final 2 - 1 in extra time.

Of course I may not have cared, had Liverpool not followed their win over Inter mid-week with a 3 - 2 win over Middlesbrough, but I digress. The Carling Cup is truly the lowest rung of competition for English clubs, but the final generally provides a great way to spend a Sunday.

Tottenham controlled most of the opening 15 minutes, Chelsea ran the middle 60 minutes or so, and Tottenham had more gas in the tank for the latter part of the game.

Juande Ramos has really got Spurs on track, especially at the back. That was the best game I'd seen Paul Robinson play, err, ever? Jonathan Woodgate has finally found a home at Spurs, I feel spelling the end to an undying reliance on the fragile Ledley King at the heart of defense.

Alan Hutton looked a little out of sorts, not seeming quite comfortable with the pace of Premier League football yet. Didier Zokora played the best match I've seen out of him as well.

As for Chelsea, their attack seemed lacking. Nicholas Anelka was nowhere to be found and Michael Essien had an uncharacteristically mediocre game. I feel Michael Ballack, who has been infinitely better since coming back into the side in late December, was brought on too late to make an impact on the game. Drogba was, as usual, the most potent Chelsea force, but even he had little impact on the Spurs defense.

Frank Lampard, who whined his way onto the team sheet, may need to watch what he wishes for in the future. He looked very pedestrian yesterday and his days at Chelsea may few if he keeps chirping without putting up the goods.

Hats off to Tottenham on a game well played, and to hoping Ramos and company will make competition in the already potent Premier League even better this year and in the future.