Micky van de Ven Double Ends The Toffees' Run at Brand New Home Ground

Micky van de Ven celebrating

The Dutch defender became the first defender to score two goals in a Premier League game for Tottenham since Jan Vertonghen in spring 2013.

At a glance

  • The Spurs defender heads home twice in first half

  • Everton's defender has equalizer disallowed after video check

  • Pape Matar Sarr scores final goal in 89th minute

  • 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 top division and delivered the Toffees their first defeat at their new home.

Everton were undefeated in their five previous fixtures at their recently opened stadium at the dockside location, having departed their historic home 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 first half to put their impressive record at jeopardy, and they were failed to turn it around before the midfielder - assisted by former Toffees attacker the Brazilian - headed home a final goal to put the game to bed.

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

The Portuguese striker, meanwhile, failed to convert a handful of opportunities, while Vicario made a succession of fine saves to guarantee the London club went five away games unbeaten in the English top flight.

But the video assistant referee intervened, instructing Craig Pawson to check the goal on the screen and the official decided that the winger and the attacker were in an illegal position and had interfered with the Tottenham goalkeeper.

This victory elevates Thomas Frank's side up to third in the division, a handful of points off local foes and leaders Arsenal.

The Merseyside club remain 14th and are six points clear of the relegation zone.

Spurs breakdown: The defender excels in role at each end of the field

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

The summer signing was unable to influence the game before being replaced for Richarlison after an hour on the pitch, but it emerged he proved unnecessary in the end.

Centre-back Van de Ven transformed into an offensive threat to be reckoned with.

Tottenham's opening strike came from a well-worked corner routine, with the midfielder heading the ball back across the six-yard box for an free the defender to head home.

And Ven de Ven - stepping up as captain in the Argentine's absence - notched his next goal in first-half stoppage time as he outjumped the England keeper to head home.

The Dutchman was just as outstanding in defensive duties, combining well with Kevin Danso as the pair handled superbly with the numerous deliveries sent their way by Everton.

Everton analysis: Everton lacking finishing touch

Everton's new home had been a happy hunting ground, but it seems the novelty may have worn off slightly and supporters flocked to the gates after Sarr's third for Tottenham.

The end in Everton's winning streak at home will not be a massive concern for the manager, but their striker situation will be.

The forward and Thierno Barry - the Everton's pair of established centre-forwards - had netted only a single goal combined before the weekend's outing.

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

Beto's form was epitomized when he chose to overhead kick a clear chance from near the goal, despite having space and opportunity to readjust for a simpler attempt that would have challenged Vicario.

The substitute, too, failed to make an impact after replacing the starter in the second half.

It was not for a shortage of chance. The majority of Everton's offensive moves came through Grealish and Ndiaye, who tirelessly whipped dangerous balls into the Spurs box.

Upcoming fixtures for these two sides?

Everton: The team travel to the Stadium of Light in the top flight on early November at 8 PM.

Tottenham: Spurs travel to St James' Park on late October for their next round Carabao Cup tie against the Magpies.

Sean Hall
Sean Hall

A passionate designer with over a decade of experience in digital and print media, dedicated to sharing innovative ideas.