Van de Ven Double Ends The Toffees' Run at New Stadium

Micky van de Ven celebrating

The Dutch defender became the initial backline player to net twice in a Premier League match for Tottenham since Jan Vertonghen in spring 2013.

Match summary

  • Micky Van de Ven nods into the net twice in opening period

  • Everton's Jake O'Brien has goal ruled after video check

  • Pape Matar Sarr scores final goal in dying moments

  • The defeat is Everton's first at Hill Dickinson Stadium

The Tottenham defender scored twice as Spurs extended their unbeaten run in away games in the Premier League and delivered the Toffees their first defeat at Hill Dickinson Stadium.

The Toffees were unbeaten in their last five matches 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 the Dutchman struck on two occasions from corners in the first half to place their strong form at risk, and they were unable to mount a comeback before Pape Matar Sarr - assisted by ex-Everton forward Richarlison - nodded in a final goal to put the game to bed.

The Everton defender believed he had equalized the scores a short while after the defender's opener, directing a bullet header past the Spurs keeper from an set-piece.

The Portuguese striker, in the meantime, missed a number of chances, while Vicario made a series of fine saves to guarantee the London club went five away games unbeaten in the Premier League.

But the video assistant referee intervened, instructing the match official to review the goal on the screen and the official ruled that Jack Grealish and the attacker were in offside positions and had interfered with the Tottenham goalkeeper.

This victory elevates Thomas Frank's side into third place in the Premier League, a handful of points off north London rivals and table-toppers the Gunners.

Everton remain 14th and are half a dozen points clear of the relegation zone.

Tottenham analysis: Van de Ven excels in role at each end of the field

After a drab weekday performance in the European competition against the French side, where they managed a mere two shots on target, Frank chose Randal Kolo Muani in attack instead of former Toffees player the Brazilian.

The new arrival was failed to make much of an impact before being replaced for Richarlison after 60 minutes on the field, but it turns out he proved unnecessary in the end.

Defender the Dutchman transformed into an attacking force to be feared.

Spurs' opening strike came from a well-worked set-piece play, with Rodrigo Bentancur directing the ball back across the six-yard box for an free the defender to score.

And the captain - stepping up as captain in Cristian Romero's unavailability - notched his next goal in added time as he outjumped the England keeper to head home.

The Dutchman was equally impressive in defensive duties, partnering well with Kevin Danso as the duo handled superbly with the numerous deliveries sent their way by Everton.

Everton analysis: Everton missing finishing touch

The club's recent stadium had been a happy hunting ground, but it appears the freshness may have faded slightly and supporters headed to the gates after the midfielder's third for Tottenham.

The end in Everton's winning streak at home will not be a major worry for the manager, but their attacking woes are.

Beto and the other striker - the Toffees' two recognised strikers - had netted only one league goal between them before the weekend's match.

And they were unable to add to that poor record on a damp and dreary night on in Liverpool.

The striker's performance was summed up when he opted to overhead kick a golden opportunity from close range, despite having space and time to reposition for a more conventional shot that would have challenged Vicario.

Barry, as well, was unable to influence the game after replacing Beto in the 65th minute.

It was not for a shortage of chance. The majority of the home side's offensive moves came through the winger and the forward, who tirelessly whipped dangerous balls into the Tottenham penalty area.

What next for both teams?

Everton: Moyes' men head to the Stadium of Light in the Premier League on Monday, 3 November at 20:00 GMT.

Spurs: Spurs go to Newcastle's ground on Wednesday, 29 October for their next round League Cup tie against the Magpies.

Misty Rivera
Misty Rivera

A seasoned journalist with a passion for uncovering stories that matter, bringing years of experience in international reporting.