Tottenham's Jose Mourinho Admits Lapses In Blown Lead Against West Ham

Blundering a 3-0 edge heading into the final minutes of the match wasn't the best outcome that Tottenham manager Jose Mourinho had in mind when they shared the pitch against West Ham.

The Portuguese football mentor believes that his brigade exhibited complacency and had difficulties in handling pressure when their counterparts mounted a comeback down the stretch.

“It was exactly when we were in control that we conceded the first goal and their belief went up. My guys were not strong enough to cope with it psychologically and in the last few seconds, we lost two points," Mourinho told the Guardian.

"I have to analyze the second half, and I have to do it internally, but for you, I prefer to say that football happened and praise West Ham’s belief.”

Heung-Min Son drew first blood for the Spurs, scoring in the first minute of play. Harry Kane then extended the lead by drilling two consecutive goals.

“It is not easy to be losing 3-0 and be dominated, to keep the belief. I knew they are a different team to last season, but to lose the advantage of three goals is a big punishment and eventually [it was] deserved," Mourinho explained.

"We should be stronger. In the second half, West Ham risked quite a lot, pressing up and they gave us more space. We should get an occasion to win the game."

Fabian Balbuena netted West Ham's first goal of the fixture, which was immediately followed by an own goal from Davinson Sanchez.

The Irons were able to complete the comeback with Manuel Lanzini sinking in the ball during extra time.

“We were causing some trouble but not enough trouble,” West Ham coach David Moyes said. “I just said to the players at half time that we had played well and to keep going."

Mourinho’s squad is looking to bounce back after this with their upcoming UEFA Europa League match against Bundesliga’s LASK on Friday at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.