Van de Ven Brace 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 English top-flight match for Tottenham since Jan Vertonghen in March 2013.

At a glance

  • Micky Van de Ven heads home twice in first half

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

  • Senegalese midfielder nets final goal in 89th minute

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

The Tottenham defender scored twice as Tottenham extended their winning streak in away games in the top division and delivered Everton their first defeat at their new home.

The Toffees were unbeaten in their last five matches at their recently opened stadium at Bramley-Moore Dock, having left their historic home behind after more than a century at the end of last season.

But Tottenham's leader Van de Ven struck on two occasions from corners in the first half to put their impressive record at jeopardy, and they were unable to mount a comeback before the midfielder - assisted by former Toffees attacker Richarlison - headed home a final goal to seal the victory.

The Everton defender thought he had levelled the scores five minutes after Van de Ven's opener, directing a bullet header past the Spurs keeper from an set-piece.

Beto, meanwhile, failed to convert a handful of chances, while the Italian goalkeeper made a series of fine saves to ensure the London club went five away games unbeaten in the English top flight.

But the video assistant referee intervened, advising the match official to check the goal on the pitchside monitor and the official ruled that the winger and Iliman Ndiaye were in an illegal position and had impeded with the Spurs keeper.

This victory elevates Thomas Frank's side into third place in the Premier League, five points off local foes and leaders Arsenal.

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

Spurs breakdown: Van de Ven fulfils role at both ends of pitch

Following a drab midweek display in the European competition against the French side, where they managed a mere attempts on goal, the manager chose Randal Kolo Muani in attack instead of ex-Everton forward the Brazilian.

The new arrival was unable to influence the game before being substituted for the substitute after 60 minutes on the field, but it turns out he proved unnecessary in the final outcome.

Defender Van de Ven transformed into an offensive threat to be reckoned with.

Tottenham's first goal came from a cleverly executed set-piece play, with Rodrigo Bentancur heading the ball toward the six-yard box for an unmarked Van de Ven to head home.

And the captain - stepping up as skipper in Cristian Romero's absence - added his next goal in first-half stoppage time as he rose above the England keeper to nod in.

The Dutchman was equally outstanding in defensive duties, combining effectively with his defensive colleague as the pair dealt excellently with the numerous deliveries thrown their way by Everton.

Everton analysis: Everton lacking striker's instinct

Everton's new home had been a happy hunting ground, but it seems the novelty may have faded somewhat and supporters headed to the exits after the midfielder's third for Tottenham.

The end in the team's winning streak at home won't be a massive worry for David Moyes, but their striker situation will be.

Beto and Thierno Barry - the Toffees' pair of established strikers - had scored only a single goal between them before the weekend's match.

And they were unable to contribute to that miserable record on a wet and gloomy night on Merseyside.

The striker's performance was epitomized when he opted to bicycle-kick a clear chance from close range, even with having space and time to readjust for a more conventional shot that would have tested the keeper.

The substitute, as well, was unable to influence the game after coming on for Beto in the 65th minute.

It was not for a shortage of chance. Most of Everton's attacks came through Grealish and the forward, who relentlessly delivered dangerous balls into the Tottenham penalty area.

Upcoming fixtures for both teams?

The Toffees: The team travel to the Stadium of Light in the top flight on early November at 20:00 GMT.

Spurs: The London club go to St James' Park on Wednesday, 29 October for their next round Carabao Cup tie against Newcastle.

Michelle Mays
Michelle Mays

A seasoned gaming journalist with over a decade of experience covering online casinos, specializing in UK gambling regulations and player safety.