Andre Villas-Boas says he is impressed by Jermain Defoe. Photo credit: Nigel French/EMPICS

Jermain Defoe thought Tottenham were unlucky to lose to Newcastle

Tottenham star Jermain Defoe believes that his side were better than Newcastle.

Demba Ba had given the Magpies the lead but the striker fired Spurs level but Hatem Ben Arfa’s penalty condemned the north Londoners to defeat in Andre Villas-Boas’ first game in charge.

“I thought we were unlucky and that we were the better team,” Defoe said.

“We were patient, organised and didn’t give them anything through the middle. They didn’t have any clear-cut chances, that’s why I think we did well and were unlucky to lose.

“When I scored the equaliser, I thought we’d go on and nick it and if we won a point, so be it. It’s such a tough place to play. When they won the penalty it was tough to take.”