David Moyes' romantic return to Goodison Park was cut short on Wednesday with Aston Villa beating Everton 1-0.
The Blues put in a resilient display but it was straight back to reality after the game, with Moyes expressing the need to make signings as soon as possible.
The arrival of an out-of-form Tottenham side on Merseyside offered the toffees an opportunity to bounce back from a disappointing defeat.
And that is exactly what they did. A quick start thanks to early goals from Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Illiman Ndiaye put Everton ahead early and an Archie Gray own goal seemed to have wrapped up the 3 points at the half.
However, a delightful Dejan Kulusevski finish with 10 to play gave Spurs some hope.
Former Everton forward, Richarlison, grabbed a second for the away side in stoppage time bit it was too little too late for Ange Postecoglu's side.
Here are the Everton Player Ratings after a massive win:
Everton Player Ratings:
Jordan Pickford - 7.5
The new England manager, Thomas Tuchel, was in attendance at Goodison Park and would certainly have been impressed by Pickford's display.
There could be questions asked over his inability to deal with James Maddison before Tottenham's first goal. However, he made some very important saves prior to that to keep his team ahead.
The Ukraine International has shown a certain level of improvement under Moyes. However, he is still somewhat of a defensive liability and offers very little going forward.
Branthwaite has had his fair share of critics this season, with his performance against Aston Villa being extremely sub-par.
However, he put in a resolute defensive display against Tottenham.
James Tarkowski - 7.5
Everton's captain dealt with Heung-Min Son extremely well for most of the game and limited him to just a handful of clear-cut opportunities.
Jake O'Brien - 8
The Irishman signed in the summer from Lyon but this was his first Premier League start for his new club. And he did not disappoint.
Although he was played outside of his natural position, he offered much more control defensively for the toffees and should retain that spot in the team going forward.
On a day in which Everton needed to win the midfield battle, Gana-Gueye was one of the best players on the pitch.
Alongside his strong midfield display, he also provided 2 assists for his side.
Orel Mangala - 8
His midfield partner will receive most of the plaudits for the win, but the Belgian's very good performance went under the radar.
Doucoure's work rate is very important to everything good that Everton do.
However, his dificiencies on the ball leave much to be desired for Everton fans.
Illiman Ndiaye - 9
Tottenham went into this game with a whole host of injuries defensively and Everton's number 10 took full advantage of that.
Every time the forward would get the ball, the defenders would take 10 steps backwards in fear of him getting the ball. And his goal was taken absolutely brilliantly.
Jesper Lindstorm - 8.5
The Danish winger has struggled for form during his time on Merseyside but showed some of his quality today.
He should retain his place at right wing over Jack Harrison who continues to struggle this season.
Dominic Calvert-Lewin - 8.5
After 16 straight games without a goal in all competitions, Everton's number 9 finally ended his goal drought with a really well taken finish.
David Moyes will be hoping that he can build on his display and start scoring very soon.
Substitutes:
Ashley Young - 5
Nathan Patterson - 4
Michael Keane - 2
Poor substitutions did not do Everton any favours when trying to close out the game. However, they did eventually get over the line.
The blues now face a trip to Brighton next week with another chance for a massive 3 points in David Moyes' first away trip since returning.
