Van de Ven Brace Halts Everton's Run at Brand New Stadium

Micky van de Ven celebrating

The Dutch defender became the first backline player to net two goals in a Premier League game for Spurs since Jan Vertonghen in March 2013.

At a glance

  • The Spurs defender nods into the net two times in opening period

  • Everton's defender has goal disallowed after VAR review

  • Senegalese midfielder scores third in 89th minute

  • The defeat is the Merseyside club's first at their new ground

The Tottenham defender scored on two occasions as Spurs prolonged their unbeaten run in away games in the top division and delivered Everton their initial loss at their new home.

Everton were unbeaten in their last five matches at their recently opened stadium at Bramley-Moore Dock, having left Goodison Park behind after 133 years at the end of last season.

But Spurs captain the Dutchman struck on two occasions from set-pieces in the opening 45 minutes to place their strong form at risk, and they were failed to turn it around before the midfielder - set up by ex-Everton forward Richarlison - nodded in a third to seal the victory.

Jake O'Brien thought he had equalized the tally five minutes after the defender's first goal, directing a bullet header past the Spurs keeper from an Everton corner.

Beto, meanwhile, failed to convert a handful of chances, while the Italian goalkeeper made a succession of excellent saves to ensure the London club went five matches on the road without defeat in the Premier League.

But the video assistant referee stepped in, advising Craig Pawson to check the score on the screen and the official decided that the winger and the attacker were in offside positions and had impeded with the Spurs keeper.

The win moves Thomas Frank's team up to third in the division, a handful of points off north London rivals and leaders Arsenal.

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

Tottenham analysis: Van de Ven fulfils role at each end of pitch

After a drab midweek display in the European competition against Monaco, where they managed a only two shots on target, Frank opted for Randal Kolo Muani in attack instead of ex-Everton forward the Brazilian.

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

Centre-back the Dutchman transformed into an offensive threat to be feared.

Tottenham's first goal came from a well-worked corner routine, with Rodrigo Bentancur directing the ball toward the face of goal for an unmarked Van de Ven to score.

And the captain - stepping up as skipper in Cristian Romero's absence - notched his second in first-half stoppage time as he rose above Jordan Pickford to nod in.

The Dutchman was equally impressive in defensive duties, partnering effectively with Kevin Danso as the duo dealt excellently with the 34 crosses sent their way by the opposition.

Toffees breakdown: Everton missing finishing touch

The club's recent stadium had been a happy hunting ground, but it seems the freshness may have worn off slightly and fans headed to the exits after Sarr's final goal for Tottenham.

The end in Everton's unbeaten home run will not be a major concern for the manager, but their striker situation will be.

Beto and the other striker - the Toffees' two recognised centre-forwards - had scored only a single goal between them before Sunday's match.

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

Beto's performance was summed up when he opted to overhead kick a golden opportunity from near the goal, despite having space and opportunity to reposition for a more conventional shot that would have tested Vicario.

Barry, as well, was unable to influence the game after replacing Beto in the 65th minute.

It was not for a shortage of chance. The majority of Everton's attacks came through the winger and Ndiaye, who relentlessly delivered dangerous balls into the Spurs penalty area.

Upcoming fixtures for both teams?

Everton: Moyes' men travel to Sunderland in the Premier League on early November at 8 PM.

Spurs: Spurs travel to Newcastle's ground on late October for their next round League Cup tie against Newcastle.

Andrea Jackson
Andrea Jackson

A financial analyst with over a decade of experience in precious metals markets, specializing in silver investment strategies and economic forecasting.