Spurs win a thriller, victory for Manchester City

Tottenham Hotspur edged closer to Champions League football after Egyptian striker Mido scored their winner in a thrilling 3-2 victory over Blackburn Rovers at White Hart Lane yesterday.

Irish striker Robbie Keane scored twice before Florent Sinama-Pongolle hauled Blackburn back into the game just before the break and Craig Bellamy drove in a 67th minute equaliser.

Mido's winner restored Tottenham's five-point lead over fifth-placed arch rivals Arsenal in the race to finish fourth and claim a place in the Champions League qualifiers.

Manchester City punished bottom club Sunderland for some woeful defending, with Greek striker Georgios Samaras scoring twice inside the first 10 minutes for a 2-1 home win.

City were gifted the early goals against a Sunderland side who somewhat made amends with a Kevin Kyle goal after 25 minutes and a spirited second half performance.

Sunderland had captain Gary Breen sent off in the 85th minute.