Son and Maddison Shine: Tottenham Beats Fulham 2-0

James Maddison and Heung-min Son are on top with Spurs // Getty Images

Tottenham Hotspur soared back to the Premier League apex with a decisive 2-0 triumph against Fulham, solidifying their standing thanks to star performances from Heung-min Son and James Maddison.

The showdown, which unfolded under the floodlights of Monday Night Football at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, left fans enthralled as it marked a significant milestone for the Spurs under the aegis of Ange Postecoglou.

The game's tempo was set by Tottenham's dynamic duo, Son and Maddison, who have seamlessly stepped into the offensive breach precipitated by Harry Kane's absence. Son's breakthrough came in the 36th minute, punctuating a period of Spurs dominance, while Maddison's goal followed in the 54th minute, his precision and skill undeniably apparent. The duo's synergy and shared vision were palpable, exploiting weaknesses in Fulham's defenses, particularly capitalizing on Calvin Bassey's precarious ball handling near his own penalty area, which directly contributed to both of Tottenham's goals.

Beyond the night's scoring exploits, the match served as a historical touchstone for manager Ange Postecoglou. Amassing an impressive 23 points from his initial nine games, the Australian tactician has etched his name in Premier League lore, eclipsing the prior record jointly held by esteemed figures Guus Hiddink, formerly of Chelsea, and Norwich City's past manager Mike Walker, who each accumulated 22 points in a comparable span. Postecoglou's transformative impact on the team's tactics and morale has been nothing short of revolutionary, rekindling hopes among the Spurs faithful for not just a top-four finish, guaranteeing Champions League football, but potentially even loftier achievements.

Ange Postecoglou broke the record for best start from a new manager in the Premier League with 23 points from 9 games with the win over Fulham

Despite Fulham's valiant efforts, they were perpetually a step behind a reinvigorated Tottenham side. The Cottagers did forge some opportunities, only to be thwarted by the reflexes and acumen of goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario, whose pivotal interventions safeguarded Tottenham's lead. The intensity of Postecoglou's squad — relentless in their pressing — proved too overwhelming for a Fulham side that couldn't find their footing, especially after conceding the second goal. This latest setback leaves them languishing in 16th place, having tasted victory a mere twice in their preceding eight league outings.

Tottenham's quest for sustained excellence doesn't pause, with a clash against Crystal Palace on the horizon this Friday night. Meanwhile, Fulham will be hoping to recalibrate and return to winning ways during a challenging visit to Brighton come Sunday. Both teams, though on divergent paths, remain acutely aware of the Premier League's unforgiving nature, where resolve and continuous adaptation are as crucial as the points on offer.