🔗 Share this article

Micky van de Ven scored on two occasions as Spurs prolonged their unbeaten run on the road in the top division and delivered the Toffees their initial loss at Hill Dickinson Stadium.

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

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

The Everton defender thought he had equalized the tally five minutes after the defender's first goal, directing a powerful header past Guglielmo Vicario from an set-piece.

Beto, in the meantime, failed to convert a handful of opportunities, while Vicario made a succession of excellent saves to guarantee the London club went five away games unbeaten in the Premier League.

But the VAR stepped in, instructing Craig Pawson to check the score on the pitchside monitor and the referee decided that the winger and Iliman Ndiaye were in an illegal position and had impeded with the Spurs keeper.

This victory moves Thomas Frank's side into third place in the division, five points off north London rivals and leaders Arsenal.

Everton stay 14th and are six points clear of the drop zone.

Tottenham analysis: Van de Ven fulfils role at both ends of the field

After a uninspiring weekday performance in the Champions League against Monaco, where they mustered a mere two shots on goal, Frank chose Randal Kolo Muani up front instead of ex-Everton forward the Brazilian.

The summer signing was failed to influence the game before being replaced for the substitute after 60 minutes on the field, but it turns out he wasn't needed in the final outcome.

Centre-back Van de Ven converted into an offensive threat to be reckoned with.

Tottenham's first goal came from a well-worked corner routine, with the midfielder directing the ball toward the six-yard box for an free the defender to score.

And Ven de Ven - filling in as captain in Cristian Romero's unavailability - added his next goal in added time as he outjumped the England keeper to head home.

The Dutchman was equally impressive in defensive duties, partnering well with his defensive colleague as the duo dealt superbly with the numerous deliveries sent their way by Everton.

Toffees breakdown: Everton lacking striker's instinct

The club's new home had been a fortress, but it appears the freshness may have worn off slightly and fans flocked to the gates after Sarr's final goal for Spurs.

The break in the team's unbeaten home run won't be a major concern for the manager, but their striker situation are.

The forward and the other striker - the Everton's pair of established strikers - had netted just one league goal combined before Sunday's match.

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

Beto's form was epitomized when he opted to bicycle-kick a clear chance from close range, even with having space and opportunity to reposition for a simpler 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 opportunity. Most of the home side's attacks came through Grealish and the forward, who tirelessly delivered dangerous crosses into the Spurs penalty area.

Upcoming fixtures for both teams?

The Toffees: The team head to the Stadium of Light in the Premier League on Monday, 3 November at 20:00 GMT.

Spurs: The London club travel to St James' Park on late October for their next round Carabao Cup tie against Newcastle.