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

Micky van de Ven celebrating

The Dutch defender became the first backline player to score twice in a English top-flight game for Tottenham since Jan Vertonghen in March 2013.

Key points

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

  • Everton's Jake O'Brien has goal ruled after VAR review

  • Pape Matar Sarr scores final goal in dying moments

  • The defeat is Everton's first at Hill Dickinson Stadium

Micky van de Ven scored twice as Tottenham extended their unbeaten run on the road in the top division and handed Everton their initial loss at Hill Dickinson Stadium.

The Toffees were unbeaten in their last five matches at their new ground at the dockside location, having departed Goodison Park behind after 133 years at the conclusion of the previous campaign.

But Spurs captain the Dutchman struck on two occasions from set-pieces in the opening 45 minutes to place their impressive record at jeopardy, and they were failed to turn it around before Pape Matar Sarr - assisted by former Toffees attacker Richarlison - nodded in a final goal to seal the victory.

Jake O'Brien thought he had levelled the scores a short while after Van de Ven's first goal, glancing a powerful header past Guglielmo Vicario from an Everton corner.

Beto, in the meantime, missed a handful of chances, while the Italian goalkeeper made a series of fine saves to ensure the London club went five away games without defeat in the Premier League.

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

This victory elevates Thomas Frank's team into third place in the Premier League, five points off local foes and table-toppers Arsenal.

Everton remain in 14th position and sit six points ahead of the drop zone.

Tottenham analysis: The defender fulfils role at both ends of pitch

Following a drab midweek performance in the Champions League against the French side, where they mustered a only two shots on goal, Frank chose the French striker up front instead of ex-Everton forward Richarlison.

The new arrival was failed to influence the game before being replaced for the substitute after 60 minutes on the field, but it turns out he proved unnecessary in the end.

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

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

And Ven de Ven - stepping up as captain in the Argentine's unavailability - added his second in added time as he rose above the England keeper to nod in.

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

Everton analysis: Toffees missing finishing touch

The club's new home had been a happy hunting ground, but it appears the novelty may have faded slightly and supporters headed to the gates after Sarr's final goal for Tottenham.

The break in Everton's winning streak at home will not be a major concern for David Moyes, but their attacking woes are.

Beto and the other striker - the Toffees' two recognised centre-forwards - had netted only one league goal between them before the weekend's match.

And they were unable to add to that miserable tally on a wet and gloomy evening on in Liverpool.

The striker's performance was summed up when he opted to overhead kick a golden opportunity from near the goal, even with having space and time to reposition for a simpler attempt that would have tested the keeper.

Barry, as well, was unable to make an impact after replacing Beto in the 65th minute.

It was not for a lack of opportunity. Most of the home side's offensive moves came through Grealish and Ndiaye, who tirelessly delivered dangerous balls into the Tottenham penalty area.

What next for both teams?

Everton: Moyes' men head to the Stadium of Light in the top flight on Monday, 3 November at 8 PM.

Tottenham: Spurs go to St James' Park on Wednesday, 29 October for their fourth-round League Cup match against the Magpies.

Tony Rivera
Tony Rivera

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