🔗 Share this article

Micky van de Ven scored twice as Spurs extended their winning streak in away games in the Premier League and handed Everton their initial loss at their new home.

Everton were unbeaten in their five previous fixtures at their recently opened stadium at Bramley-Moore Dock, having left their historic home behind after more than a century at the conclusion of last season.

But Tottenham's leader the Dutchman struck twice from set-pieces in the opening 45 minutes to put their strong form at risk, and they were unable to turn it around before the midfielder - set up by ex-Everton forward 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, glancing a powerful header past Guglielmo Vicario from an Everton corner.

The Portuguese striker, meanwhile, failed to convert a number of chances, while the Italian goalkeeper made a succession of excellent stops to ensure Tottenham went five away games without defeat in the Premier League.

But the video assistant referee intervened, advising the match official 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 Tottenham goalkeeper.

The win elevates Thomas Frank's team into third place in the Premier League, five points off north London rivals and table-toppers Arsenal.

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

Tottenham analysis: The defender fulfils duties at each end of pitch

Following a uninspiring midweek display in the Champions League against Monaco, where they managed a mere attempts on target, Frank opted for the French striker in attack instead of ex-Everton forward Richarlison.

The summer signing was unable to make much of an impact before being replaced for Richarlison after 60 minutes on the field, but it turns out he proved unnecessary in the final outcome.

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

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

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

The Dutchman was equally impressive in defensive duties, combining effectively with Kevin Danso as the duo dealt superbly with the 34 crosses thrown their way by the opposition.

Toffees breakdown: Everton missing finishing touch

The club's new home had been a happy hunting ground, but it appears the freshness may have worn off somewhat and fans headed to the gates after the midfielder's third for Spurs.

The end in Everton's winning streak at home won't be a major concern for David Moyes, but their attacking woes are.

The forward and Thierno Barry - the Everton's two established centre-forwards - had netted only one league goal combined before Sunday's outing.

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

Beto's form was summed up when he opted to bicycle-kick a golden opportunity from near the goal, despite having room and opportunity to readjust for a simpler attempt that would have challenged the keeper.

The substitute, as well, failed to influence the game after coming on for Beto in the 65th minute.

It wasn't for a shortage of chance. Most of Everton's attacks came through the winger and Ndiaye, who relentlessly delivered threatening balls into the Tottenham penalty area.

What next for both teams?

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

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