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

Micky van de Ven celebrating

The Dutch defender became the initial defender to net twice in a Premier League match for Spurs since the Belgian defender in March 2013.

At a glance

  • Micky Van de Ven nods home twice in opening period

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

  • Pape Matar Sarr scores final goal in 89th minute

  • This loss is Everton's first at Hill Dickinson Stadium

The Tottenham defender found the net on two occasions as Tottenham prolonged their unbeaten run on the road in the top division and handed the Toffees their first defeat at Hill Dickinson Stadium.

Everton were undefeated in their last five matches at their recently opened stadium at Bramley-Moore Dock, having left their historic home behind after 133 years at the conclusion of last season.

But Tottenham's leader Van de Ven pounced twice from corners in the opening 45 minutes to put their impressive record at risk, and they were failed to mount a comeback before the midfielder - set up by former Toffees attacker Richarlison - nodded in a third to seal the victory.

The Everton defender believed he had equalized the tally a short while after Van de Ven's first goal, glancing a powerful header past Guglielmo Vicario from an Everton corner.

Beto, in the meantime, missed a handful of chances, while the Italian goalkeeper made a succession of fine saves to ensure Tottenham went five matches on the road unbeaten in the Premier League.

But the video assistant referee stepped in, advising the match official to check the score on the pitchside monitor and the referee decided that the winger and the attacker were in offside positions and had impeded with the Tottenham goalkeeper.

This victory elevates Thomas Frank's side into third place in the division, a handful of points off local foes and table-toppers Arsenal.

The Merseyside club remain in 14th position and sit half a dozen points clear of the drop zone.

Spurs breakdown: Van de Ven excels in duties at both ends of pitch

Following a drab midweek display in the European competition against the French side, where they managed a only two shots on goal, the manager opted for Randal Kolo Muani up front instead of former Toffees player Richarlison.

The summer signing was unable to influence the game before being substituted for the substitute after 60 minutes on the pitch, but it emerged he wasn't needed in the end.

Defender the Dutchman converted 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 unmarked the defender to head home.

And Ven de Ven - stepping up as captain in the Argentine's absence - added his second in added time as he outjumped the England keeper to head home.

Van de Ven was just as impressive in defensive duties, partnering well with Kevin Danso as the duo dealt excellently with the 34 crosses thrown their way by the opposition.

Everton analysis: Everton missing finishing touch

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

The break in Everton's unbeaten home run won't be a major worry for David Moyes, but their attacking woes will be.

The forward and the other striker - the Toffees' two established centre-forwards - had netted only one league goal combined before the weekend's outing.

And they were failed to contribute to that poor record on a damp and dreary evening on in Liverpool.

The striker's form was summed up when he opted to bicycle-kick a golden opportunity from close range, despite having space and time to readjust for a simpler shot that would have challenged the keeper.

Barry, as well, failed to make an impact after coming on for the starter in the 65th minute.

It wasn't for a shortage of opportunity. The majority of Everton's offensive moves came through Grealish and the forward, who relentlessly whipped threatening balls into the Tottenham box.

What next for both teams?

Everton: The team travel to Sunderland in the Premier League on Monday, 3 November at 8 PM.

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

Robert Smith
Robert Smith

A wellness coach and writer passionate about mindfulness and sustainable living, sharing experiences to inspire positive change.