Tottenham extended their lead over rivals Arsenal to seven points by securing a 2-1 victory in a pulsating north London derby on Sunday afternoon that many believe represented a shift in the balance of power between the two clubs.

Gareth Bale and Aaron Lennon ensured that Per Mertesacker's goal proved only a consolation for the Gunners, who have already suffered disappointing defeats in the FA Cup and Capital One Cup, with a Champions League exit in the coming weeks likely.

Spurs rose back above Chelsea into third place and took another step under Andre Villas-Boas towards changing the guard in the north of the capital as they seek to return to Europe's top competition.

Sports »  Soccer/Football  Championships

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