🔗 Share this article

The Tottenham defender found the net on two occasions as Tottenham extended their winning streak in away games in the top division and handed Everton their initial loss at Hill Dickinson Stadium.

Everton were unbeaten in their last five matches at their new ground at Bramley-Moore Dock, having departed their historic home behind after more than a century at the conclusion of the previous campaign.

But Spurs captain the Dutchman struck on two occasions from set-pieces in the first half to put their strong form at jeopardy, and they were unable to turn it around before the midfielder - assisted by ex-Everton forward the Brazilian - nodded in a final goal to put the game to bed.

The Everton defender thought he had equalized the tally a short while after Van de Ven's opener, directing a bullet header past the Spurs keeper from an Everton corner.

Beto, in the meantime, missed a handful of chances, while Vicario made a succession of fine saves to guarantee the London club went five matches on the road without defeat in the English top flight.

But the video assistant referee intervened, advising Craig Pawson to review the score on the pitchside monitor and the official ruled that Jack Grealish and Iliman Ndiaye were in an illegal position and had interfered with the Tottenham goalkeeper.

This victory moves the manager's team up to third in the Premier League, a handful of points off north London rivals and leaders Arsenal.

Everton remain 14th and sit half a dozen points clear of the drop zone.

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

Following a drab midweek display in the Champions League against the French side, where they managed a mere two shots on goal, Frank opted for the French striker in attack instead of former Toffees player the Brazilian.

The summer signing was unable to influence the game before being substituted for Richarlison after 60 minutes on the pitch, but it emerged he wasn't needed in the end.

Defender the Dutchman converted into an attacking force to be reckoned with.

Spurs' opening strike came from a cleverly executed set-piece play, with the midfielder heading the ball toward the face of goal for an unmarked Van de Ven to score.

And the captain - stepping up as captain in the Argentine's absence - notched his next goal in added time as he rose above the England keeper to head home.

Van de Ven was just as outstanding in defensive duties, partnering effectively with his defensive colleague as the duo dealt excellently with the numerous deliveries thrown their way by the opposition.

Toffees breakdown: Toffees missing striker's instinct

Everton's new home had been a fortress, but it seems the novelty may have worn off slightly and fans headed to the exits after the midfielder's third for Spurs.

The end in Everton's winning streak at home will not be a massive worry for David Moyes, but their attacking woes are.

The forward and the other striker - the Everton's pair of established centre-forwards - had netted only a single goal combined before Sunday's outing.

And they were unable to add to that poor record on a wet and gloomy evening on Merseyside.

The striker's form was summed up when he chose to bicycle-kick a golden opportunity from close range, despite having space and time to readjust for a simpler attempt that would have tested Vicario.

The substitute, as well, was unable to make an impact after coming on for the starter in the second half.

It was not for a lack of opportunity. The majority of the home side's attacks came through the winger and the forward, who tirelessly delivered threatening balls into the Tottenham penalty area.

What next for both teams?

The Toffees: Moyes' men travel 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.