Micky van de Ven Double Ends Everton's Unbeaten Streak at Brand New Home Ground

Micky van de Ven celebrating

The Dutch defender emerged as the first defender to score two goals in a English top-flight game for Tottenham since Jan Vertonghen in spring 2013.

Match summary

  • Micky Van de Ven heads into the net two times in opening period

  • The home side's Jake O'Brien has goal ruled after video check

  • Pape Matar Sarr scores third in 89th minute

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

The Tottenham defender found the net twice as Tottenham extended their winning streak in away games in the top division and delivered Everton their first defeat at Hill Dickinson Stadium.

Everton were unbeaten in their last five matches at their new ground at Bramley-Moore Dock, having departed their historic home behind after 133 years at the end of last season.

But Tottenham's leader the Dutchman struck on two occasions from set-pieces in the first half to put their strong form at risk, and they were unable to mount a comeback before Pape Matar Sarr - set up by ex-Everton forward the Brazilian - nodded in a final goal to put the game to bed.

Jake O'Brien thought he had equalized the scores five minutes after the defender's opener, glancing a powerful header past the Spurs keeper from an Everton corner.

The Portuguese striker, meanwhile, missed a number of opportunities, while Vicario made a series of fine saves to ensure Tottenham went five matches on the road without defeat in the Premier League.

But the VAR stepped in, advising Craig Pawson to check the goal on the screen and the referee ruled that the winger and the attacker were in an illegal position and had interfered with the Spurs keeper.

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

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

Spurs breakdown: The defender fulfils duties at both ends of the field

After a uninspiring weekday performance in the Champions League against the French side, where they mustered a mere two shots on goal, the manager opted for Randal Kolo Muani in attack instead of former Toffees player the Brazilian.

The new arrival was unable to influence the game before being substituted for the substitute after an hour on the field, but it turns out he wasn't needed in the end.

Defender Van de Ven converted into an attacking force to be reckoned with.

Tottenham's opening strike came from a well-worked set-piece play, with Rodrigo Bentancur heading the ball back across the face of goal for an free the defender to head home.

And the captain - filling in as skipper in the Argentine's absence - added his next goal in first-half stoppage time as he outjumped Jordan Pickford to nod in.

The Dutchman was just as outstanding in defence, combining well with Kevin Danso as the duo dealt excellently with the numerous deliveries sent their way by the opposition.

Everton analysis: Everton missing striker's instinct

Everton's new home had been a happy hunting ground, but it appears the novelty may have worn off slightly and fans headed to the gates after the midfielder's final goal for Tottenham.

The end in the team's winning streak at home will not be a massive concern for the manager, but their attacking woes will be.

The forward and Thierno Barry - the Everton's two established centre-forwards - had netted just a single goal combined before Sunday's match.

And they were failed to add to that miserable record on a damp and dreary evening on Merseyside.

Beto's form was epitomized when he opted to bicycle-kick a golden opportunity from close range, despite having space and opportunity to reposition for a simpler attempt that would have tested Vicario.

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

It was not for a lack of opportunity. The majority of Everton's attacks came through the winger and Ndiaye, who tirelessly delivered dangerous crosses into the Spurs box.

What next for both teams?

The Toffees: Moyes' men travel to Sunderland in the top flight on early November at 20:00 GMT.

Spurs: The London club travel to Newcastle's ground on late October for their fourth-round League Cup match against Newcastle.

James Green
James Green

A passionate web developer and tech enthusiast with over 10 years of experience in creating innovative digital solutions.