Europe — 15 February 2013

Gareth Bale was once again the hero as Tottenham, defeated Lyon 2-1 in the Europa League The British clubs in last night’s Europa League experienced mixed fortunes in their first leg games.

Liverpool were defeated 2-0 in Russia against Zenit St. Petersburg, Chelsea won 1-0 at Czech side Sparta Prague, Newcastle drew 0-0 with Ukrainian side Metalist Kharkiv and Tottenham defeated Lyon 2-1 at White Hart Lane.

Liverpool punished for their errors as Zenit secured a 2-0 lead to take to Anfield in next week’s second leg. The game was a tight affair until the 70th minute, when Brazilian Hulk blasted home a superb effort from long-range.

Veteran midfielder Sergei Semak doubled the Russians lead from close-range two minutes later. The Reds are up against it to make it through to the next round.

Newcastle were frustrated at St. James Park were Metalist held the Magpies to a 0-0 draw. Striker Papiss Cisse had two goals disallowed, one in each half as Newcastle failed to gain an advantage to take to the Ukraine in the second leg.

Elsewhere, Chelsea defeated Sparta Prague 1-0 in the Czech capital. Chelsea left it late though as the winner didn’t arrive until the 82nd minute. Brazilian playmaker Oscar came on as a substitute and 45 seconds later slotted home, after playing a one-two with Eden Hazard.

Tottenham claimed a last-gasp 2-1 victory over French side Lyon at White Hart Lane. Spurs took the lead on the stroke of half-time with a fantastic free-kick from 35 yards. The visitors were back on level terms ten minutes into the second, as Samuel Umtiti scored with a superb half volley from the edge of the area.

Just as it looked like the game was heading for a draw Bale struck again. Bale struck another free-kick which went over the bar and beat Remy Vercoutre in the Lyon goal.

Which English clubs can progress into the next round of the Europa League?

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David Nugent

David is a 29 year-old football fan and journalist, who is passionate about the beautiful game. He is a lifelong supporter of Premier League Everton and likes nothing better than a healthy discussion about the world's favourite sport.

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