🔗 Share this article

Micky van de Ven scored twice as Spurs extended their winning streak on the road in the top division and handed the Toffees their first defeat at Hill Dickinson Stadium.

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

But Spurs captain Van de Ven pounced twice from set-pieces in the first half to place their impressive record at risk, and they were unable to mount a comeback before Pape Matar Sarr - set up by ex-Everton forward Richarlison - headed home a third to put the game to bed.

Jake O'Brien believed he had levelled the scores five minutes after the defender's first goal, directing a powerful header past the Spurs keeper from an Everton corner.

Beto, in the meantime, missed a handful of chances, while the Italian goalkeeper made a succession of fine saves to ensure Tottenham went five matches on the road without defeat in the English top flight.

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

This victory moves Thomas Frank's side into third place in the Premier League, five points off north London rivals and table-toppers Arsenal.

Everton remain 14th and sit six points clear of the relegation zone.

Tottenham analysis: The defender fulfils duties at both ends of the field

After a drab midweek performance in the Champions League against the French side, where they mustered a mere attempts on goal, Frank opted for Randal Kolo Muani up front instead of former Toffees player the Brazilian.

The new arrival was failed to make much of an impact before being substituted for the substitute after an hour on the pitch, but it turns out he proved unnecessary in the end.

Centre-back the Dutchman transformed into an offensive threat to be reckoned with.

Tottenham's first goal came from a cleverly executed corner routine, with the midfielder heading the ball back across the six-yard box for an free the defender to head home.

And Ven de Ven - stepping up as captain in Cristian Romero's absence - notched his second in added time as he outjumped Jordan Pickford to head home.

Van de Ven was just as impressive in defence, partnering well with his defensive colleague as the pair dealt excellently with the numerous deliveries sent their way by the opposition.

Toffees breakdown: Everton lacking striker's instinct

The club's recent stadium had been a happy hunting ground, but it seems the novelty may have faded slightly and supporters flocked to the exits after Sarr's third for Spurs.

The end in Everton's unbeaten home run won't be a massive worry for the manager, but their attacking woes will be.

The forward and Thierno Barry - the Everton's two recognised strikers - had scored just one league goal combined before Sunday's outing.

And they were unable to contribute to that poor record on a damp and dreary evening on in Liverpool.

The striker's form was epitomized when he opted to overhead kick a clear chance from near the goal, despite having room and opportunity to readjust for a more conventional attempt that would have tested Vicario.

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

It wasn't for a shortage of opportunity. Most of Everton's attacks came through the winger and Ndiaye, who tirelessly whipped dangerous crosses into the Spurs penalty area.

Upcoming fixtures for these two sides?

The Toffees: Moyes' men head to the Stadium of Light in the Premier League on Monday, 3 November at 8 PM.

Spurs: The London club travel to Newcastle's ground on Wednesday, 29 October for their next round Carabao Cup match against Newcastle.