Van de Ven Brace Ends Everton's Unbeaten Streak at Brand New Stadium

Micky van de Ven celebrating

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

Key points

  • The Spurs defender heads into the net two times in first half

  • Everton's Jake O'Brien has goal ruled after video check

  • Pape Matar Sarr nets final goal in 89th minute

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

Micky van de Ven found the net twice as Tottenham extended their unbeaten run in away games in the top division and delivered the Toffees their first defeat at their new home.

Everton were unbeaten in their five previous fixtures at their new ground at the dockside location, having departed Goodison Park behind after 133 years at the end of last season.

But Spurs captain the Dutchman struck twice from set-pieces in the first half to place their strong form at risk, and they were unable to turn it around before Pape Matar Sarr - assisted by ex-Everton forward Richarlison - headed home a final goal to seal the victory.

Jake O'Brien thought he had equalized the tally a short while after the defender's opener, directing a powerful header past the Spurs keeper from an Everton corner.

The Portuguese striker, in the meantime, failed to convert a number of opportunities, while Vicario made a succession of fine stops to ensure Tottenham went five away games without defeat in the Premier League.

But the video assistant referee stepped in, instructing Craig Pawson to check the score on the pitchside monitor and the referee decided that Jack Grealish and the attacker were in offside positions and had impeded with the Spurs keeper.

The win moves Thomas Frank's side up to third in the division, five points off local foes and table-toppers Arsenal.

Everton stay in 14th position and are six points clear of the relegation zone.

Spurs breakdown: Van de Ven fulfils role at each end of pitch

Following a uninspiring weekday performance in the Champions League against the French side, where they managed a only two shots on goal, Frank chose the French striker up front instead of former Toffees player the Brazilian.

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

Defender the Dutchman converted into an attacking force to be feared.

Tottenham's opening strike came from a cleverly executed corner routine, with the midfielder directing the ball back across the face of goal for an unmarked Van de Ven to score.

And the captain - stepping up as captain in Cristian Romero's absence - added his second in first-half stoppage time as he outjumped the England keeper to nod in.

The Dutchman was just as outstanding in defensive duties, partnering well with Kevin Danso as the duo handled superbly with the numerous deliveries sent their way by the opposition.

Everton analysis: Everton missing striker's instinct

Everton's new home had been a happy hunting ground, but it appears the novelty may have worn off slightly and supporters flocked to the exits after Sarr's final goal for Tottenham.

The break in the team's winning streak at home won't be a major concern for David Moyes, but their striker situation are.

Beto and Thierno Barry - the Toffees' two recognised strikers - had scored only one league goal between them before the weekend's match.

And they were failed to add to that poor record on a wet and gloomy night on Merseyside.

The striker's form was epitomized when he opted to bicycle-kick a clear chance from close range, despite having space and time to reposition for a simpler shot that would have tested the keeper.

Barry, too, was unable to influence the game after replacing the starter in the 65th minute.

It wasn't for a shortage of opportunity. Most of the home side's offensive moves came through the winger and the forward, who tirelessly delivered dangerous crosses into the Tottenham box.

What next for both teams?

Everton: The team travel to the Stadium of Light in the Premier League on Monday, 3 November at 8 PM.

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

Micheal Hayes
Micheal Hayes

A professional gaming analyst with over a decade of experience in online casinos, specializing in slot machine mechanics and player psychology.