32 Sports Issue 12 July 2024 The RGS Gazette In 2008, Barack Obama was elected President for the first time, 'Iron Man,' 'Breaking Bad,' and 'The Dark Knight' were released, and Tottenham Hotspur won their last major trophy. Since then, Spurs fans have endured a long and painful wait for silverware. In contrast, Leicester City fans have witnessed a miraculous Premier League triumph, while Birmingham City and Swansea City have lifted the League Cup. Even Wycombe Wanderers have enjoyed the euphoria of a playoff final victory. Meanwhile, Tottenham’s trophy cabinet has remained untouched, with the Audi Cup hardly counting as an accomplishment. Back in 2008, Tottenham seemed poised for success. With worldclass forwards Robbie Keane and Dimitar Berbatov in their prime, the future looked bright. Sixteen years later, the trophy drought continues, despite the club’s undeniable quality and managerial prowess. Spurs’ managers since 2008 have collectively won 17 league titles and five European trophies elsewhere, yet none have managed to end Tottenham’s barren spell. The club has seen the likes of Harry Kane and Gareth Bale grace the pitch, players of exceptional talent who, despite their individual accolades, have not been able to secure a major trophy for the team. There is a grim acceptance among players and fans alike that one does not go to Spurs to win trophies. This perception may sap the will and nerve of the players when it matters most. Tottenham seems to have become a club that does not win trophies, regardless of the squad's hard work and talent. More likely, it is the willpower of the players that is lacking—that innate ability to weather pressure and expectation, to overcome the final hurdle and conquer the highest peak. The most successful teams believe that obstacles exist to be overcome, not avoided. Spurs, on the other hand, seem to approach obstacles with trepidation and lack a clear plan to surmount them. Being a fan of this forsaken club takes a toll. Spurs reach finals and challenge for league titles, yet always slip and falter when it finally matters. In a troubling way, Tottenham mirrors the England team under Gareth Southgate: exciting on paper, brimming with attacking quality, but ultimately falling short when it counts. Imagine watching England play week in, week out, never sure which team will turn up. That is what it feels like to be a Spurs fan. So, before you tease and insult, consider the plight of Tottenham supporters. Think of the lows we endure, being fans of a team that seems condemned by fate. Think on that, and perhaps spare a thought for our endless wait for glory. Why Do Spurs Fail to Win Silverware? SPORTS Benjamin Sage (Year 10) explains his take on Spurs' silverware drought. Tottenham Hotspur beat Aston Villa 40 (2024) Tottenham's last major trophy the League Cup (2008)
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