Spurs star discusses disallowed goal

On his first start for Andre Villas-Boas’ side, Dempsey had his first half strike ruled out for offside.

Spurs also had efforts from Jermain Defoe and Steven Caulker chalked off, and USA forward Dempsey insists his strike should have stood.

“I thought I was level with the line,” said the 29-year-old.

“It was a good ball from Bale, I got on the end of it and thought I opened my account but it was offside.

“That’s the way it goes sometimes but they defended well, set up to counter-attack and were tough to break down but we had some chances and were unlucky to get the goal tonight.”

Despite the disappointment of seeing his goal celebrations cut short, Dempsey was pleased to make his first start.

“It’s good to get games and get more minutes.

“I’m trying to create chances, get on the end of things, I can play other positions but they were tough and sat back and played on the counter.

“But we did have some chances and were unlucky not to get a goal.”