By SHAUN CUSTIS
GARETH BALE can still feel the frustration at being denied a Champions League place by the cruellest of twists.
Spurs had qualified for this season’s competition but missed out because Chelsea won the trophy in dramatic style by beating Bayern Munich on penalties.
It meant the Blues, who finished sixth in the Premier League, qualified as holders and dumped Tottenham into the Europa League.
Now Spurs want victory against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge tonight to keep their top-four dream alive and make up for that heartache 12 months ago.
It is in their own hands provided they beat the Blues, Stoke and Sunderland in their last three games.
And Tottenham winger Bale said: “I think I was more annoyed than anything else watching that Champions League final and seeing all our hard work wasted.
“I thought Bayern battered Chelsea but it was one of those nights which you couldn’t control. What happened has driven us on and we’ve used that as an incentive this year.
“If we win all our games there’s nothing which can stop us qualifying, so it’s up to us.
“We’ve had a taste of the Champions League before and I know how much everyone wants it.
“We need to keep our focus on what needs to be done and finish the job off.”
While Bale is determined to get revenge on Chelsea, he has huge respect for Rafa Benitez’s side.
The Blues are currently three points clear of Spurs and one ahead of Arsenal, who have played a game more than their Champions League rivals.
Bale added: “Chelsea are a massive club, one of the best. They have won titles and the Champions League and they want to be in it again as much as anybody.
“They have signed some great players and have a very good team.
“We know it’s going to be difficult to beat them on their home ground but we’ve definitely got the team that can do that.
“I’ve never won at Stamford Bridge, a draw is the best I’ve done, so it’s time we had a win there.”
