Spurs overpower 10-man BVB to grant Thomas Frank temporary reprieve

Spurs offered their manager Thomas Frank a moment of relief by controlling the game against Borussia Dortmund down to ten players in a 2-0 victory that boosted Tottenham to fourth position in the Champions League standings.

Franks role seemed precarious following an uprising from supporters after Saturdays 2-1 defeat at home to struggling Premier League side West Ham.

Yet the Danish coach received a temporary extension and his team secured their first victory on home soil since December 9, calming talks about his job for the time being.

Cristian Romero and Dominic Solanke netted during the opening period around Daniel Svenssons dismissal.

A win over Eintracht Frankfurt in the upcoming final league phase match next week would ensure Tottenham a top-eight spot and progression to the knockout stage.

Borussia Dortmund on the other hand appear set to navigate into the last 16 through the play-off stage.

Frank has managed just two home triumphs in the Premier League as Tottenham have plummeted to 14th place despite an encouraging beginning with the ex-Brentford leader.

The European competition tells a contrasting tale with four successes from four matches in north London.

Plagued by injuries and bans Franks squad underwent five alterations after the poor showing versus the Hammers and earned a noticeably better performance.

Borussia Dortmund found it tough throughout to handle the danger posed by Wilson Odobert and Pedro Porro on the right flank with the former setting up both strikes.

The initial goal arrived from a corner where Odobert fired the ball back into the crowded area and Romero bundled it over the line from near range.

A sluggish beginning for the German outfit worsened when VAR prompted officials to change Svenssons reckless tackle on Odobert from a caution to a sending off at the 26-minute mark.

Dominic Solankes season hampered by injuries has contributed significantly to his teams difficulties.

The England forward made his first start under Frank and claimed his opening goal of the season even if it involved little skill as Odoberts delivery bounced off his legs.

Borussia Dortmund had only suffered one loss in 12 outings since their previous visit to England a 4-1 reverse against Manchester City in November.

Manager Nico Kovac displayed his annoyance at his teams initial 45 minutes by introducing two substitutes at halftime and the 2024 finalists at least halted further concessions in the latter half.

Gregor Kobel denied efforts from Xavi Simons and Randal Kolo Muani to limit the damage.

Tottenham had already achieved sufficient to ease the anger within their supporter base and afford Frank an additional opportunity to demonstrate his value.