Van de Ven Brace Ends Everton's Run at New Stadium

Micky van de Ven celebrating

The Dutch defender emerged as the first defender to net twice in a Premier League match for Spurs since Jan Vertonghen in spring 2013.

Key points

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

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

  • Pape Matar Sarr scores third in dying moments

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

Micky van de Ven found the net twice as Spurs extended their winning streak in away games in the top division and handed the Toffees their first defeat at their new home.

The Toffees were unbeaten in their last five matches at their recently opened stadium at the dockside location, having left Goodison Park behind after more than a century at the conclusion of last season.

But Spurs captain the Dutchman struck twice from set-pieces in the first half to put their impressive record at risk, and they were failed to mount a comeback before the midfielder - set up by ex-Everton forward the Brazilian - nodded in a third to put the game to bed.

The Everton defender believed he had equalized the scores five minutes after the defender's opener, directing a powerful header past Guglielmo Vicario from an set-piece.

Beto, in the meantime, failed to convert a number of opportunities, while the Italian goalkeeper made a series of fine saves to guarantee the London club went five matches on the road without defeat in the English top flight.

But the video assistant referee stepped in, instructing Craig Pawson to check the score on the screen and the referee ruled that the winger and the attacker were in an illegal position and had impeded with the Spurs keeper.

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

The Merseyside club stay in 14th position and are six points clear of the drop zone.

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

After a uninspiring midweek display in the European competition against Monaco, where they managed a only two shots on target, the manager opted for the French striker up front instead of ex-Everton forward the Brazilian.

The new arrival was failed to influence the game before being replaced 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 offensive threat to be feared.

Spurs' 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 unavailability - notched his next goal in first-half stoppage time as he outjumped the England keeper to head home.

Van de Ven was equally outstanding in defensive duties, partnering effectively with Kevin Danso as the duo dealt excellently with the numerous deliveries thrown their way by Everton.

Everton analysis: Toffees missing finishing touch

Everton's new home had been a fortress, but it appears the novelty may have worn off somewhat and supporters flocked to the exits after the midfielder's final goal for Tottenham.

The end in the team's unbeaten home run won't be a massive concern for the manager, but their attacking woes will be.

Beto and Thierno Barry - the Everton's two recognised strikers - had scored just a single goal between them before Sunday's match.

And they were unable to add to that poor tally on a damp and dreary evening on Merseyside.

Beto's performance was epitomized when he opted to overhead kick a golden opportunity from close range, despite having room and time to readjust for a more conventional shot that would have tested Vicario.

Barry, too, failed to make an impact after replacing the starter in the 65th minute.

It wasn't for a shortage of opportunity. Most of Everton's attacks came through the winger and the forward, who tirelessly delivered dangerous balls into the Spurs box.

What next for both teams?

The Toffees: Moyes' men head to Sunderland in the top flight on early November at 8 PM.

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

Pamela Bentley
Pamela Bentley

A professional poker player and coach with over 10 years of experience, specializing in tournament strategy and mental game techniques.