Tottenham Hotspur produced a wonderful team performance on Saturday to beat London rivals Crystal Palace 3-1 away at Selhurst Park.
But one player once again showed his class and style with yet another brilliant display – that player was 20-year-old Dele Alli.
The young England international is already in contention for goal of the season with a superb volley in the 86th minute to put Spurs in front after Harry Kane had cancel out Jan Vertonghen’s own goal.
Alli received the ball off the net of Christian Eriksen just outside of the box.
After keeping the ball in the air with a cushioned knee, he flicked the ball effortlessly over the head of the onrushing Mile Jedinak.
He proceeded to volley the ball low and hard into the bottom corner before rushing away to wildly celebrate his wonder-goal.
Since making his debut against Manchester United in August 2015, Alli has shown great character far beyond his age – making 21 appearances scoring six times.
But his first strike in 2016 has been the one earning him plaudits from followers of the game.
His coach Mauricio Pochettino had this to say about the goal: “Dele Alli’s goal was a fantastic goal and it showed his quality.
“It is a goal that will be seen around the world on television – it was unbelievable. We knew he was a player of unbelievable potential, but today he showed unbelievable maturity and quality.”
Pochettino’s opposing number, Alan Pardew, couldn’t help but applaud the effort of the former MK Dons star.
Speaking to the BBC, he said: “It was horrible to watch, and I don’t often say that about a beautiful goal.
“As soon as he flicked the ball over his head I feared the worst. It was a great moment for him and he is a great talent.”
The win increased Spurs’ gap in fourth place over Manchester United to five points – with the same points difference remaining between them and leaders Leicester.
Tottenham have not qualified for the Champions League since they reached the quarter-finals in the 2010/11 season.
