Redknapp back as Spurs down Watford

The FA Cup proved a welcome distraction for Harry Redknapp after his Tottenham side became the first name in the hat for the fifth round draw with a 1-0 win over Watford last night.

Rafael van der Vaart’s long-range goal shortly before half-time turned out to be enough for victory at Watford yesterday, although the home side deserved a replay having hit the post twice and dominated for lengthy spells.

Redknapp had made a dash from Southwark Crown Court as soon as his case had adjourned for the weekend to join up with his players in time for kick-off.

The first half show both teams sharing exchanges but it was Tottenham who took the lead on 42 minutes.

Van der Vaart evaded an attempt to intercept Kyle Walker’s pass and ran from deep inside the Watford half before beating Loach from 25 yards.

It looked as though the goalkeeper should really have saved it, although the ball did bounce just in front of the England Under-21 international.

In the other fourth round tie played yesterday, Denis Stracqualursi headed his first goal as Everton came from a goal down to beat Fulham 2-1 at Goodison Park.

It was Fulham who took the lead on 13 minutes when Everton defender John Heitinga handled the ball inside the area.

Danny Murphy calmly stroked home the penalty but Everton, feeling wronged by referee Howard Webb's decision, responded well to the setback.

Everton were rewarded for their good spell when Stracqualursi headed them level with his first goal for the club after 27 minutes.

The Toffees continued to pile up the pressure and struck the winner on 73 minutes when Marouane Fellaini fired the ball past Fulham goalkeeper David Stockdale.

Results: Watford vs Tottenham 0-1; Everton vs Fulham 2-1.