Micky van de Ven Double Halts Everton's Unbeaten Streak at Brand New Stadium

Micky van de Ven celebrating

The Dutch defender became the initial backline player to net twice in a Premier League game for Spurs since Jan Vertonghen in March 2013.

Key points

  • Micky Van de Ven heads into the net two times in first half

  • Everton's defender has goal disallowed after VAR review

  • Senegalese midfielder scores third in 89th minute

  • The defeat is Everton's initial at their new ground

Micky van de Ven found the net twice as Tottenham prolonged their unbeaten run on the road in the Premier League and delivered the Toffees their first defeat at Hill Dickinson Stadium.

Everton were undefeated in their five previous fixtures at their recently opened stadium at the dockside location, having left their historic home behind after 133 years at the conclusion of last season.

But Spurs captain Van de Ven struck on two occasions from corners in the first half to put their strong form at jeopardy, and they were failed to turn it around before Pape Matar Sarr - assisted by ex-Everton forward Richarlison - nodded in a third to put the game to bed.

The Everton defender believed he had levelled the tally five minutes after the defender's opener, directing a powerful header past the Spurs keeper from an set-piece.

Beto, meanwhile, failed to convert a number of chances, while the Italian goalkeeper made a series of fine saves to ensure the London club went five matches on the road unbeaten in the English top flight.

But the VAR intervened, instructing Craig Pawson to review the goal on the pitchside monitor and the official decided that the winger and the attacker were in an illegal position and had interfered with the Spurs keeper.

This victory elevates Thomas Frank's side into third place in the division, five points off local foes and leaders Arsenal.

The Merseyside club stay 14th and sit six points clear of the relegation zone.

Tottenham analysis: The defender fulfils duties at both ends of pitch

Following a uninspiring midweek display in the Champions League against Monaco, where they mustered a only two shots on goal, Frank opted for the French striker in attack instead of former Toffees player the Brazilian.

The new arrival was failed to make much of an impact before being substituted for Richarlison after an hour on the field, but it emerged he wasn't needed in the final outcome.

Centre-back the Dutchman transformed into an offensive threat to be feared.

Spurs' first goal came from a cleverly executed corner routine, with the midfielder directing the ball toward the six-yard box for an unmarked Van de Ven to head home.

And the captain - filling in as captain in the Argentine's absence - added his next goal in first-half stoppage time as he outjumped the England keeper to head home.

The Dutchman was equally impressive in defensive duties, combining effectively with Kevin Danso as the duo handled superbly with the 34 crosses thrown their way by the opposition.

Everton analysis: Everton lacking striker's instinct

The club's new home had been a happy hunting ground, but it appears the novelty may have worn off somewhat and supporters flocked to the exits after the midfielder's third for Spurs.

The end in the team's winning streak at home won't be a major concern for David Moyes, but their attacking woes are.

The forward and Thierno Barry - the Toffees' two established centre-forwards - had scored only one league goal between them before Sunday's outing.

And they were unable to contribute to that miserable tally on a wet and gloomy evening on in Liverpool.

Beto's form was summed up when he chose to overhead kick a clear chance from close range, despite having space and opportunity to readjust for a simpler shot that would have tested the keeper.

The substitute, too, failed to make an impact after replacing the starter in the second half.

It was not for a shortage of opportunity. Most of Everton's offensive moves came through the winger and the forward, who relentlessly whipped dangerous balls into the Tottenham box.

What next for these two sides?

The Toffees: Moyes' men head to Sunderland in the Premier League on Monday, 3 November at 20:00 GMT.

Spurs: The London club travel to Newcastle's ground on Wednesday, 29 October for their fourth-round Carabao Cup tie against Newcastle.

Dominique Hess
Dominique Hess

A passionate music journalist and DJ with over a decade of experience covering underground scenes and emerging talent.