George Burley believes his side have successfully returned to basics in a bid to halt their dismal Premiership form.

The Ipswich boss said: "We looked fairly solid at the back and a threat up front, both of which were qualities missing earlier in the season.

"That's 17 goals in six games now so we've certainly got it right at the moment. Even when Spurs put us under pressure, we looked dangerous.

"Marcus Bent played exceptionally well. He's got the quality and ability to become a top-class striker.

"He knows there's room for improvement and I think he's developed in the short time he's been at Portman Road."

Burley, who has now inspired his side to five wins in six games, added: "Overall, it was a very tight game. "I thought we looked more comfortable in the second half and dealt with their passing and movement better.

"We changed things around because Mauricio Taricco was causing us so many problems on the right.

"A couple of chances came our way after the break and if we'd scored from one of those it would have changed the course of the game.

"As it was, Spurs equalised and we had to battle to get a winner. The lads really showed their character.

"To beat such quality opposition twice in a month is a fantastic achievement. Now the players need to keep this level of performance going."

Spurs boss Glenn Hoddle lambasted his side's defending.

He added: "It was a disappointing day for us, what with the poor goals we conceded and the injuries picked up by Les Ferdinand and Christian Ziege.

"I've told the players performances like this are unacceptable."

Published Monday January 14, 2002