White Hart Lane looked set to witness a rare scoreless match before Bent headed in Tottenham's opener in the 80th minute shortly after replacing central defender Michael Dawson.

It took Tottenham less than two minutes to double their lead when Bent rolled a pass into the path of O'Hara who slotted past David James for his first Premier League goal.

The defeat put a dent in sixth-placed Portsmouth's hopes of qualifying for the UEFA Cup through the league, although they are in the FA Cup semi-finals next month.

All eyes are on Sunday's fixtures when leaders Manchester United face fourth-placed Liverpool and second and third meet at the Emirates where Arsenal entertain Chelsea.

Saturday's later kickoffs featured fifth-placed Everton at home to West Ham United and a big relegation battle between Newcastle United and Fulham. -- REUTERS