In 1987, Spurs played Coventry City in the FA Cup final. Spurs were clear favourites but Coventry triumphed thanks to a late and freakish goal. Coventry had a free kick, about 25 yards out I recall. The ball was blasted towards the Spurs defencive wall, struck Spurs' captain Gary Mabbutt on the leg and flew up in the air, looping over the head of Spurs' helpless goalie and into the net. A terrible way to lose an FA Cup final but if you're on the winning side well hey, they all count.
On me knee son! Gary Mabbutt displays his famous patella
Now, Coventry had never won anything before (older readers may remember the Monty Python spoof quiz show featuring - bizarrely - famous communist leaders from history: "When did Coventry City first win the FA cup? That's a trick question: Coventry have never won the FA Cup.") and I don't think they've won anything since. So their only trophy win is all thanks to Gary Mabbutt's knee. Consequently, this lump of flesh and bone has acquired mythical status amongst Coventry supporters to the extent that there is a Coventry City fanzine/web-site called GMK (it's true: Google it).
How long before there's a Spurs equivalent called GBLF? I speak of course of Gareth Bale's Left Foot. Last night, the Welsh wizard's magical appendage twice plopped the ball beyond the reach of Lyon's diving goalie from free kicks...plus he did the same thing the other day against Newcastle. So that's three free kicks and three goals in the last two matches. Even David Beckham in his prime could not match this.
The consequences are clear. For Tottenham, it's pay the lad anything he wants; tell the rest of the team to pass the ball to Bale at every opportunity; when he's not on the pitch, keep Bale in pampered and secure surroundings at all times and don't let him do anything which might cause damage to GBLF.
For opponents, it's stamp on the bastard ASAP!
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