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

Micky van de Ven celebrating

Micky van de Ven became the first backline player to net twice in a English top-flight game for Tottenham since the Belgian defender in spring 2013.

Match summary

  • Micky Van de Ven nods home twice in first half

  • Everton's defender has goal disallowed after video check

  • Pape Matar Sarr scores final goal in dying moments

  • The defeat is the Merseyside club's first at Hill Dickinson Stadium

The Tottenham defender found the net twice as Spurs extended their unbeaten run in away games in the top division and handed the Toffees their initial loss at their new home.

Everton were undefeated in their last five matches at their recently opened stadium at Bramley-Moore Dock, having departed Goodison Park behind after more than a century at the conclusion of last season.

But Spurs captain the Dutchman struck on two occasions from corners in the opening 45 minutes to place their strong form at jeopardy, and they were failed to mount a comeback before the midfielder - set up by former Toffees attacker the Brazilian - headed home a third to seal the victory.

Jake O'Brien believed he had levelled the scores a short while after the defender's opener, directing a bullet header past the Spurs keeper from an set-piece.

Beto, in the meantime, failed to convert a number of chances, while Vicario made a series of fine saves to ensure Tottenham went five away games unbeaten in the Premier League.

But the video assistant referee stepped in, advising Craig Pawson to check the score on the pitchside monitor and the referee ruled that the winger and Iliman Ndiaye were in an illegal position and had impeded with the Tottenham goalkeeper.

The win moves the manager's side up to third in the Premier League, a handful of points off local foes and table-toppers Arsenal.

The Merseyside club stay 14th and are six points ahead of the relegation zone.

Tottenham analysis: The defender excels in role at each end of the field

Following a drab weekday performance in the Champions League against Monaco, where they mustered a mere attempts on target, Frank chose Randal Kolo Muani in attack instead of ex-Everton forward the Brazilian.

The summer signing was unable to influence the game before being replaced for Richarlison after an hour on the field, but it turns out he wasn't needed in the end.

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

Tottenham's first goal came from a well-worked set-piece play, with Rodrigo Bentancur heading the ball back across the face of goal for an unmarked Van de Ven to head home.

And Ven de Ven - stepping up as skipper in Cristian Romero's absence - notched his next goal in first-half stoppage time as he outjumped the England keeper to head home.

The Dutchman was equally impressive in defensive duties, partnering effectively with Kevin Danso as the duo handled superbly with the numerous deliveries thrown their way by Everton.

Toffees breakdown: Everton lacking finishing touch

Everton's new home had been a happy hunting ground, but it appears the freshness may have faded slightly and fans flocked to the exits after the midfielder's third for Spurs.

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

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

And they were unable to contribute to that poor tally on a wet and gloomy evening on Merseyside.

The striker's performance was summed up when he chose to overhead kick a golden opportunity from close range, despite having space and time to readjust for a simpler shot that would have tested the keeper.

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

It wasn't for a lack of opportunity. Most of the home side's attacks came through the winger and the forward, who tirelessly delivered dangerous balls into the Tottenham box.

What next for both teams?

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

Tottenham: The London club go to St James' Park on late October for their fourth-round League Cup tie against the Magpies.

Susan Martin MD
Susan Martin MD

A UK-based lifestyle blogger passionate about travel, wellness, and sharing practical tips for everyday living.

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