That prevented what could quickly have become a social media pile-on. Why? Because with the game goalless, Werner had fluffed his first-half lines. Son Heung-min had swiftly pitched a first-time left-footed ball forward and Werner’s initial touch was exquisite. He was never going to be caught in a 50-yard dash, so whether he could finish was the only outstanding question.
There are some forwards who supporters do not want to see given time and space to think about how to apply a goal-scoring touch: Werner is amongst them. His attempt to circumnavigate Sam Johnstone failed. His team-mates ruffled his hair in support, and lesser players may have buckled. Werner did not and that speaks to his character. “He was a constant threat to them,” said Ange Postecoglou afterwards.
“I understand with attacking players that goals make them feel better, feel a bit more confident, so this relieves the pressure a little bit. Just in general I thought he was really aggressive with his running, kept taking on the full-back.
“Apart from the missed chance, I thought his general play was really good. A goal always helps these things. It was pleasing for us. It was an important time of the game, and it was great for him to score.”
Pre-Werner’s intervention, Spurs were trailing to Eberechi Eze’s 59th-minute free-kick. As time disappeared, an old-school “smash and grab” looked likely. Oliver Glasner had set Palace up to contain.