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

Everton were undefeated in their five previous fixtures at their new ground at the dockside location, having left Goodison Park behind after more than a century at the conclusion of last season.

But Tottenham's leader Van de Ven pounced on two occasions from set-pieces in the opening 45 minutes to put their impressive record at jeopardy, and they were unable to mount a comeback before the midfielder - assisted by former Toffees attacker the Brazilian - headed home a final goal to put the game to bed.

The Everton defender believed he had levelled the tally a short while after Van de Ven's first goal, directing a powerful header past Guglielmo Vicario from an Everton corner.

The Portuguese striker, meanwhile, missed a number of opportunities, while the Italian goalkeeper made a succession of fine saves to ensure Tottenham went five matches on the road unbeaten in the English top flight.

But the VAR intervened, advising Craig Pawson to check the goal on the pitchside monitor and the official decided that the winger and Iliman Ndiaye were in an illegal position and had interfered with the Tottenham goalkeeper.

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

Everton remain in 14th position and sit six points ahead of the relegation zone.

Spurs breakdown: The defender excels in role at both ends of pitch

Following a uninspiring weekday performance in the European competition against the French side, where they mustered a mere attempts on goal, the manager opted for the French striker up front instead of ex-Everton forward the Brazilian.

The summer signing was unable to influence the game before being substituted for Richarlison after 60 minutes on the field, but it emerged he proved unnecessary in the final outcome.

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

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

And the captain - stepping up as skipper in Cristian Romero's absence - notched his next goal in first-half stoppage time as he rose above Jordan Pickford to nod in.

The Dutchman was just as impressive in defence, partnering well with his defensive colleague as the duo dealt superbly with the numerous deliveries thrown their way by the opposition.

Everton analysis: Toffees lacking striker's instinct

Everton's new home had been a happy hunting ground, but it appears the novelty may have worn off slightly and fans headed to the gates after Sarr's final goal for Tottenham.

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

Beto and Thierno Barry - the Toffees' two established strikers - had netted only a single goal combined before the weekend's match.

And they were failed 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 bicycle-kick a golden opportunity from close range, despite having room and opportunity to reposition for a simpler shot that would have tested the keeper.

The substitute, as well, was unable to influence the game after replacing Beto in the 65th minute.

It was not for a lack of chance. Most of Everton's attacks came through Grealish and Ndiaye, who relentlessly whipped dangerous balls into the Tottenham box.

What next for both teams?

Everton: Moyes' men head to the Stadium of Light in the Premier League on Monday, 3 November at 20:00 GMT.

Spurs: Spurs travel to Newcastle's ground on Wednesday, 29 October for their next round League Cup tie against Newcastle.