Peter Crouch says Tottenham let themselves down with their 1-1 draw at Birmingham City.
In November, Spurs brushed aside Inter Milan, Arsenal, Werder Bremen and Liverpool.
But for Harry Redknapp's side this draw was a reality check.
England striker Crouch said: "With the players we've got and the quality we have in all areas there is no reason why we cannot mount a challenge.
"But we aren't as consistent as we should be - to be a title contender you have to grind out these results.
"We're getting there, but Chelsea and Manchester United have had that for a long time and that's where we need to be.
"You have to go in and make sure you get that 1-0 and hang in there, that's important if you want to win a title. But we still have the ability to be right up there at the end of the season."
