Tottenham are four points ahead of fifth-placed Arsenal following their Bale-inspired 2-1 win over Newcastle at White Hart Lane.
Gareth Bale: "In recent years we have kind of gone off the boil a little at this time of the season but I think the lads have got a lot more confidence.
"We have learned from our mistakes from previous years and now we can be a lot stronger going in to the finishing end of the season so I hope we can do it.
"I was unhappy with my performance because I missed a couple of late chances to take home the match ball.
"I was absolutely fuming (that I didn't get a hat-trick).
"I missed a few chances, especially the one with my right foot, but the most important thing was that we got the three points to put the pressure on the teams above us and below.
"I am enjoying my game at the moment and the team is playing well, which always makes it easier."
Spurs manager Andre Villas-Boas: "He is such a great player.
"These moments of individual brilliance always help the team.
"The best teams in the world count on the best players and they are able to make the difference for you so it was a great game for him."