In the end they went down – literally – fighting in the Battle of Stamford Bridge.
But Christian Eriksen believes the intensity shown by Chelsea in Monday’s spiteful, explosive draw – and the Blues’ determination to deny them a shot at the title – proves Spurs have actually won the respect of their London rivals.
The Dane told Mirror Sport: “In the last few seasons when we played Chelsea they tried to bully us. It has normally been Spurs backing down.
“Luckily we turned it around and were able to play an even game. More for us in the first half. But it was an even game and it ended, unluckily for us, even.”
The simmering tensions spilled over into open warfare, with both teams at each other’s throats.
Chelsea stars Cesc Fabregas and Eden Hazard – who ultimately broke Tottenham hearts with a late equaliser – had claimed beforehand they did not want their London rivals to beat Leicester to the Premier League trophy.
Chelsea defender Gary Cahill believes fans and neutrals should not have been surprised by the intensity level.
Cahill said: “When there is so much at stake you cannot expect players to roll over. We’re all competitive, that’s the way it is.
“People should enjoy the game for what it was. There was a lot at stake and I hope people understand that.
“The atmosphere was one of the best I have played in for ages. It was incredible. And with that you are going to get emotions running high. But afterwards they just calm down.”
Cahill’s partner at the back, John Terry, agreed and said: “It boiled over but let’s not get silly and start banning people, it’s a London derby and the fans want to see it.”
While he and his team-mates wait for the FA to do their worst, Eriksen believes Tottenham’s season has even transformed the neutrals’ perception of Mauricio Pochettino’s side.
They will play Champions League football next season for the first time in five years.
And Eriksen added: “People have changed their minds about how they see Spurs.
“Normally they are seen as exciting but inconsistent team. Now it’s a bit of both. It’s exciting games and the style how we play.
“It’s a good start and it’s something we have forced people to believe in us. I think we have changed people’s minds.”
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