Tottenham secured Premier League survival on a dramatic final day of the season on Sunday as West Ham’s 14-year stay in the top division came to an end.
Spurs kicked off against Everton needing, realistically, only a draw to avoid relegation for the first time since 1977 — as they sat two points clear of the Hammers with a significantly better goal difference.
Joao Paulinha released the mounting pressure at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium just before half-time, poking home after his header thundered back off a post.
The Portugal midfielder was mobbed by his teammates as head coach Roberto De Zerbi sprinted down the touchline, turning to celebrate with ecstatic fans in the London sunshine.
That goal left Nuno Espirito Santo’s West Ham, then drawing 0-0 with Leeds, needing a favour from Everton, even if they went on to win their match.
