Bale gave the north Londoners the lead 15 minutes into the match, heading home on his return to action following the birth of his first child. Spurs deservedly doubled their advantage as half-time approached through Clint Dempsey, who directed home into an empty net after Jose Fonte's clearance off the line fell straight into his path.
A vastly-improved Saints side re-emerged for the second period and they reduced the deficit in the 66th minute when Jay Rodriguez lashed home his first Premier League goal.
Source: PA
Source: PA