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

Micky van de Ven celebrating

The Dutch defender emerged as the initial defender to net twice in a Premier League match for Spurs since Jan Vertonghen in spring 2013.

Match summary

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

  • The home side's defender has goal ruled after VAR review

  • Pape Matar Sarr scores third in dying moments

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

The Tottenham defender found the net on two occasions as Tottenham extended their winning streak on the road in the Premier League and delivered the Toffees their first defeat at Hill Dickinson Stadium.

Everton were unbeaten in their five previous fixtures at their new ground at Bramley-Moore Dock, having departed their historic home behind after more than a century at the conclusion of the previous campaign.

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

Jake O'Brien believed he had levelled the scores five minutes after Van de Ven's first goal, glancing a powerful header past Guglielmo Vicario from an set-piece.

The Portuguese striker, meanwhile, failed to convert a number of chances, while Vicario made a succession of fine saves to guarantee Tottenham 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 the attacker were in an illegal position and had interfered with the Spurs keeper.

The win moves the manager's team into third place in the Premier League, a handful of points off north London rivals and table-toppers Arsenal.

The Merseyside club remain in 14th position and sit six points clear of the relegation zone.

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

After a uninspiring midweek performance in the European competition against the French side, where they managed a mere attempts on target, the manager opted for Randal Kolo Muani up front instead of ex-Everton forward Richarlison.

The new arrival was failed to influence the game before being substituted for the substitute after 60 minutes on the field, but it emerged he wasn't needed in the final outcome.

Centre-back the Dutchman transformed into an attacking force to be reckoned with.

Tottenham's first goal came from a cleverly executed set-piece play, with the midfielder heading the ball back across the face of goal for an free Van de Ven to score.

And the captain - filling in as captain in the Argentine's absence - notched his second in first-half stoppage time as he rose above the England keeper to head home.

Van de Ven was equally impressive in defence, partnering well with Kevin Danso as the pair handled superbly with the numerous deliveries sent their way by Everton.

Toffees breakdown: Everton lacking finishing touch

The club's new home had been a happy hunting ground, but it seems the freshness may have faded slightly and fans headed to the gates after the midfielder's third for Spurs.

The break in the team's unbeaten home run won't be a major concern for David Moyes, but their attacking woes are.

The forward and the other striker - the Toffees' two established strikers - had scored only one league goal combined before Sunday's match.

And they were unable to add to that miserable tally on a wet and gloomy night on Merseyside.

The striker's performance was summed up when he chose to bicycle-kick a golden opportunity from close range, even with having space and opportunity to reposition for a simpler attempt that would have tested Vicario.

The substitute, as well, was unable to make an impact after coming on for Beto in the second half.

It wasn't for a lack of chance. The majority of the home side's offensive moves came through the winger and the forward, who tirelessly delivered dangerous crosses into the Tottenham penalty area.

What next for these two sides?

The Toffees: The team travel to Sunderland in the top flight on Monday, 3 November at 8 PM.

Spurs: Spurs go to St James' Park on late October for their fourth-round Carabao Cup match against Newcastle.

Tammy Burns
Tammy Burns

A seasoned travel writer and luxury lifestyle expert, Elara explores hidden gems and opulent destinations, sharing unique perspectives on high-end experiences.