Harry happy as Crouch hits back

09 April 2011 20:30
Harry Redknapp was delighted for Peter Crouch after he bounced back from his midweek sending off against Real Madrid by scoring two goals in Tottenham's 3-2 victory over Stoke. The England hitman's red card 15 minutes into the match against Jose Mourinho's side cost Spurs dearly as they went down 4-0 in the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final. The 30-year-old's name was greeted with a mixed reception as it was read out on the public address system before the game, but he soon won the home fans over by opening the scoring with a well-placed header after 10 minutes. He bagged his second by beating Asmir Begovic with another header just after the half-hour to put the Londoners on course for their first victory in almost two months. Luka Modric bagged a third but goals from Matthew Etherington and Kenwyne Jones ensured that Tottenham were made to endure a nervy second half. "It was the response I wanted and expected after Real Madrid. I was pleased for Crouchie," said Redknapp. "I wasn't sure whether to play and him and I wasn't sure what reaction he would get from the crowd. Sometimes they can turn on you when they think you're to blame for something but they were great with him and they made a great atmosphere today. He was okay. He wasn't nervous going into the game."

Source: PA