Bale making name as Europe's most exciting player

By John Leicester, AP Sports Columnist

PARIS — A shade over two months ago, in a packed auditorium in Monaco, Sisenando Maicon Douglas known simply as Maicon by the opponents who fear him beamed with pride as he was presented with a ball-shaped silver trophy for being the best defender in European club football for 2010.

Real Madrid boss Mourinho rules out Bale deal

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Gareth Bale has been in fine form, both in defence and midfield.

Tottenham v Stoke City

Gareth Bale, not known for his scoring touch, made easily the most impressive goal of the young season with a curving volley that met the top left corner of the net. That goal was the margin of victory for the Spurs giving them momentum for the return matchup with Young Boys.
Stoke City did not go away easily as the game ended with some controversy over a foul/no foul that was called against Stoke that disallowed the possible equalizer.

Scoring Summary
Tottenham
Gareth Bale 19', 30'
Stoke City
Ricardo Ruller 25'