🔗 Share this article

Micky van de Ven scored on two occasions as Spurs prolonged their winning streak in away games in the top division and delivered Everton their initial loss at Hill Dickinson Stadium.

The Toffees were undefeated in their last five matches at their new ground at Bramley-Moore Dock, having left their historic home behind after more than a century at the end of last season.

But Spurs captain the Dutchman pounced on two occasions from set-pieces in the opening 45 minutes to place their strong form at jeopardy, and they were unable to mount a comeback before the midfielder - assisted by ex-Everton forward Richarlison - headed home a final goal to seal the victory.

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

Beto, meanwhile, failed to convert a number of opportunities, while the Italian goalkeeper made a series of excellent saves to ensure the London club went five matches on the road without defeat in the English top flight.

But the video assistant referee intervened, advising the match official to review the score on the pitchside monitor and the referee decided that Jack Grealish and Iliman Ndiaye were in offside positions and had interfered with the Spurs keeper.

This victory elevates Thomas Frank's team up to third in the division, a handful of points off north London rivals and leaders Arsenal.

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

Spurs breakdown: The defender excels in duties at both ends of the field

Following a drab midweek performance in the Champions League against Monaco, where they mustered a mere attempts on goal, the manager opted for Randal Kolo Muani up front instead of ex-Everton forward Richarlison.

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

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

Tottenham's opening strike came from a well-worked corner routine, with Rodrigo Bentancur directing the ball toward the six-yard box for an free the defender to head home.

And Ven de Ven - stepping up as skipper in Cristian Romero's absence - added his next goal in first-half stoppage time as he rose above Jordan Pickford to head home.

Van de Ven was just as impressive in defensive duties, combining effectively with his defensive colleague as the pair dealt superbly with the numerous deliveries thrown their way by the opposition.

Toffees breakdown: Toffees missing striker's instinct

The club's new home had been a fortress, but it seems the novelty may have faded slightly and supporters flocked to the gates after Sarr's third for Tottenham.

The end in the team's winning streak at home will not be a major concern for the manager, but their attacking woes are.

The forward and Thierno Barry - the Toffees' pair of established centre-forwards - had scored only one league goal between them before Sunday's outing.

And they were unable to add to that poor record on a damp and dreary evening on Merseyside.

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

Barry, as well, failed to make an impact after replacing the starter in the 65th minute.

It was not for a lack of opportunity. The majority of Everton's offensive moves came through the winger and the forward, who tirelessly whipped threatening crosses into the Spurs box.

What next for both teams?

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

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