Spirited Rochdale ‘did not surprise’ Pochettino

Matt Stead

Spurs boss Mauricio Pochettino admitted he was not surprised by Rochdale’s performance as they forced a replay in the FA Cup.

Steve Davies earned Rochdale a replay against Premier League Tottenham with a dramatic late equaliser in the FA Cup fifth round at the crown Oils Arena.

Harry Kane and Lucas Moura looked to have spared spared Spurs’ blushes with second half goals as the Premier League side came from behind.

But that was when Davies struck to ensure a replay at Wembley, his goal adding to the first half strike from Ian Henderson.

“The FA Cup is magic. We have another opportunity at Wembley, the same situation like before,” Pochettino told the BBC.

“I was so calm on the bench because I know very well what happens if you believe the tie is over. That happens. We concede two clear chances, one was nearly and one was a goal.”

Pochettino also admitted that he was not surprised by how Rochdale played.

“I was not surprised. This competition is completely differently. Newport gave us a fantastic game and they lost their next game in the league 5-0.

“The motivation is always massive. It’s not easy to play this type of game. Of course we wanted to win but we have the possibly to win.

“We have all the squad fit and it will be another game to provide players with the chance to compete on Wembley and we have the possibility to reach the quarter finals.”