Van de Ven Double Halts Everton's Unbeaten Streak at New Stadium

Micky van de Ven celebrating

Micky van de Ven became the initial defender to net two goals in a Premier League game for Spurs since the Belgian defender in spring 2013.

Match summary

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

  • The home side's defender has equalizer disallowed after VAR review

  • Senegalese midfielder nets final goal in 89th minute

  • The defeat is the Merseyside club's initial at Hill Dickinson Stadium

The Tottenham defender found the net on two occasions as Spurs extended their unbeaten run on the road in the Premier League and delivered the Toffees their initial loss at their new home.

Everton were unbeaten in their five previous fixtures at their new ground at Bramley-Moore Dock, having left Goodison Park behind after more than a century at the conclusion of the previous campaign.

But Tottenham's leader the Dutchman pounced twice from set-pieces in the opening 45 minutes to put their strong form at risk, and they were unable to mount a comeback before Pape Matar Sarr - assisted by ex-Everton forward Richarlison - headed home a third to put the game to bed.

Jake O'Brien thought he had equalized the scores five minutes after the defender's first goal, directing a powerful header past the Spurs keeper from an set-piece.

The Portuguese striker, meanwhile, failed to convert a number of chances, while Vicario made a succession of fine saves to ensure Tottenham went five away games without defeat in the Premier League.

But the video assistant referee intervened, advising Craig Pawson to review the score on the pitchside monitor and the official decided that Jack Grealish and Iliman Ndiaye were in an illegal position and had impeded with the Tottenham goalkeeper.

This victory elevates the manager's team up to third in the Premier League, five points off north London rivals and leaders Arsenal.

Everton stay in 14th position and are six points ahead of the relegation zone.

Spurs breakdown: Van de Ven fulfils duties at each end of the field

Following a uninspiring midweek display in the European competition against Monaco, where they managed a mere two shots on goal, Frank opted for the French striker up front instead of ex-Everton forward the Brazilian.

The new arrival was unable to influence the game before being substituted for Richarlison after 60 minutes on the field, but it turns out he wasn't needed in the final outcome.

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

Tottenham's first goal came from a well-worked corner routine, with the midfielder heading the ball toward the face of goal for an free the defender to score.

And the captain - stepping up as skipper in Cristian Romero's absence - added his second in first-half stoppage time as he rose above Jordan Pickford to head home.

The Dutchman was just as outstanding in defence, partnering well with his defensive colleague as the duo dealt excellently with the numerous deliveries sent their way by Everton.

Everton analysis: Everton lacking finishing touch

The club's new home had been a fortress, but it seems the novelty may have worn off somewhat and fans headed to the gates after the midfielder's final goal for Tottenham.

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

Beto and Thierno Barry - the Toffees' pair of recognised strikers - had scored only one league goal between them before the weekend's match.

And they were failed to add to that miserable record on a wet and gloomy night on in Liverpool.

Beto's performance was epitomized when he chose to overhead kick a golden opportunity from close range, despite having room and time to reposition for a simpler attempt that would have challenged Vicario.

The substitute, as well, was unable to make an impact after coming on for Beto in the 65th minute.

It was not for a shortage of opportunity. Most of Everton's offensive moves came through the winger and Ndiaye, who tirelessly delivered dangerous crosses into the Tottenham box.

What next for both teams?

Everton: Moyes' men travel to the Stadium of Light in the top flight on Monday, 3 November at 20:00 GMT.

Tottenham: The London club go to St James' Park on Wednesday, 29 October for their next round League Cup match against Newcastle.

Chad Green
Chad Green

Lena is een ervaren gids en schrijver die zich richt op de unieke cultuur en geschiedenis van Den Haag.