Thomas Frank has struggled to win over Tottenham fans who have questioned his methods and whether he is a powerful enough personality to push them back towards the top of the Premier League table.
The discontent has surfaced twice recently, after the timid tactical approach in the 4-1 derby defeat at Arsenal and when they lost 2-1 at home to Fulham.
Spurs at least showed fighting spirit to come back twice to earn a point at Newcastle, and this was another improvement as they finally found a way to win at home.
Before this win, Tottenham had played 16 league games at home in 2025, winning only three and losing 10. Frank has to change that pattern.
This was only their second home league win this season - the first came on the opening weekend against Burnley - and there was much to encourage Frank.
To add to the satisfaction, Xavi Simons finally showed why the club were willing to pay £52m to bring him in from RB Leipzig, pulling the strings behind an attacking trio of Mohammed Kudus, Richarlison and Randal Kolo Muani.
Spurs have not had many days to enjoy at home this year - but this was one of them.