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

Micky van de Ven celebrating

The Dutch defender emerged as the first backline player to score twice in a English top-flight match for Spurs since the Belgian defender in spring 2013.

At a glance

  • The Spurs defender nods into the net twice in first half

  • Everton's defender has equalizer ruled after video check

  • Senegalese midfielder nets final goal in dying moments

  • The defeat is Everton's initial at their new ground

The Tottenham defender found the net on two occasions as Spurs prolonged their winning streak on the road in the top division and handed Everton their initial loss at their new home.

The Toffees were unbeaten in their last five matches at their recently opened stadium at Bramley-Moore Dock, having departed Goodison Park behind after 133 years at the conclusion of last season.

But Spurs captain Van de Ven pounced on two occasions from set-pieces in the opening 45 minutes to place their impressive record at risk, and they were unable to turn it around before the midfielder - set up by ex-Everton forward Richarlison - headed home a final goal to seal the victory.

The Everton defender believed he had levelled the scores five minutes after the defender's first goal, directing a powerful header past the Spurs keeper from an set-piece.

The Portuguese striker, meanwhile, missed a handful of chances, while Vicario made a series of fine saves to guarantee the London club went five matches on the road unbeaten in the Premier League.

But the video assistant referee stepped in, instructing Craig Pawson to review the score on the pitchside monitor and the referee decided that the winger and Iliman Ndiaye were in offside positions and had interfered with the Spurs keeper.

This victory moves Thomas Frank's team into third place in the division, a handful of points off local foes and leaders the Gunners.

Everton stay in 14th position and sit half a dozen points ahead of the relegation zone.

Tottenham analysis: The defender excels in duties at both ends of the field

Following a uninspiring weekday performance in the Champions League against the French side, where they mustered a only two shots on target, Frank chose Randal Kolo Muani in attack instead of ex-Everton forward the Brazilian.

The new arrival was unable to make much of an impact before being replaced for the substitute after 60 minutes on the pitch, but it turns out he wasn't needed in the end.

Defender Van de Ven converted into an offensive threat to be feared.

Spurs' opening strike came from a well-worked corner routine, with the midfielder heading the ball toward the face of goal for an unmarked the defender to head home.

And Ven de Ven - stepping up as skipper in Cristian Romero's absence - added his second in first-half stoppage time as he outjumped Jordan Pickford to head home.

The Dutchman was equally outstanding in defensive duties, partnering well with his defensive colleague as the pair dealt superbly with the 34 crosses sent their way by Everton.

Toffees breakdown: Everton lacking striker's instinct

Everton's new home had been a fortress, but it appears the freshness may have worn off slightly and supporters headed to the exits after Sarr's final goal for Tottenham.

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

Beto and the other striker - the Everton's pair of recognised centre-forwards - had netted just a single goal combined before Sunday's match.

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

Beto's form was epitomized when he chose to overhead kick a clear chance from close range, despite having room and time to readjust for a simpler attempt that would have tested the keeper.

The substitute, too, was unable to influence the game after replacing Beto in the 65th minute.

It was not for a lack of chance. Most of the home side's attacks came through Grealish and Ndiaye, who tirelessly delivered threatening balls into the Tottenham box.

What next for both teams?

The Toffees: Moyes' men head to Sunderland in the Premier League on Monday, 3 November at 8 PM.

Spurs: The London club travel to St James' Park on Wednesday, 29 October for their fourth-round Carabao Cup match against Newcastle.

Ethan Cohen
Ethan Cohen

A passionate writer and community advocate with a background in social sciences, dedicated to exploring human connections and personal growth.