Van de Ven Brace Ends Everton's Unbeaten Streak at Brand New Home Ground

Micky van de Ven celebrating

Micky van de Ven emerged as the first backline player to score two goals in a English top-flight game for Tottenham since Jan Vertonghen in spring 2013.

Match summary

  • Micky Van de Ven heads home two times in opening period

  • Everton's defender has equalizer disallowed after video check

  • Pape Matar Sarr nets third in dying moments

  • This loss is the Merseyside club's initial at Hill Dickinson Stadium

Micky van de Ven found the net on two occasions as Tottenham prolonged their unbeaten run in away games in the Premier League and handed Everton their first defeat at their new home.

Everton were unbeaten in their five previous fixtures at their recently opened stadium at Bramley-Moore Dock, having departed their historic home behind after more than a century at the end of the previous campaign.

But Tottenham's leader the Dutchman struck twice from set-pieces in the opening 45 minutes to place their strong form at risk, and they were failed to mount a comeback before the midfielder - set up by ex-Everton forward the Brazilian - headed home a final goal to seal the victory.

Jake O'Brien believed he had equalized the scores five minutes after the defender's first goal, directing a powerful header past the Spurs keeper from an Everton corner.

Beto, meanwhile, missed a number of opportunities, while Vicario made a series of excellent stops to ensure Tottenham went five away games without defeat in the English top flight.

But the video assistant referee stepped in, advising the match official to check the score on the screen and the official ruled that Jack Grealish and Iliman Ndiaye were in an illegal position and had interfered with the Tottenham goalkeeper.

This victory elevates Thomas Frank's team into third place in the division, five points off north London rivals and table-toppers Arsenal.

Everton remain 14th and sit six points clear of the drop zone.

Spurs breakdown: The defender fulfils role at both ends of the field

Following a uninspiring weekday display in the European competition against the French side, where they mustered a mere attempts on goal, the manager opted for the French striker up front instead of former Toffees player Richarlison.

The new arrival was failed to influence the game before being replaced for the substitute after an hour on the field, but it turns out he wasn't needed in the end.

Defender the Dutchman converted into an attacking force to be reckoned with.

Tottenham's first goal came from a cleverly executed corner routine, with Rodrigo Bentancur directing the ball toward the six-yard box for an unmarked Van de Ven to score.

And Ven de Ven - stepping up as skipper in the Argentine's unavailability - added his next goal in first-half stoppage time as he rose above the England keeper to head home.

The Dutchman was just as impressive in defence, combining effectively with his defensive colleague as the duo dealt superbly with the 34 crosses thrown their way by the opposition.

Everton analysis: Toffees lacking striker's instinct

Everton's recent stadium had been a happy hunting ground, but it appears the freshness may have faded somewhat and fans flocked to the gates after the midfielder's third for Tottenham.

The end in Everton's winning streak at home will not be a major concern for David Moyes, but their striker situation will be.

The forward and Thierno Barry - the Toffees' pair of recognised centre-forwards - had netted just one league goal between them before Sunday's match.

And they were unable to add to that miserable record on a damp and dreary evening on Merseyside.

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

The substitute, as well, failed to influence the game after coming on for the starter in the 65th minute.

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

What next for these two sides?

Everton: The team head to Sunderland in the Premier League on early November at 20:00 GMT.

Tottenham: Spurs travel to Newcastle's ground on late October for their fourth-round League Cup tie against Newcastle.

Robert Bowman
Robert Bowman

A food blogger and culinary explorer specializing in Indian cuisine, sharing recipes and dining experiences from across the UK.