Archie Gray's first goal for Tottenham secured a crucial 1-0 victory at Crystal Palace, easing the pressure on manager Thomas Frank. The 42nd-minute header ended a run of five defeats in eight matches for Spurs, who had slipped to 14th in the Premier League on Christmas Day.
Gray's close-range finish came against the run of play, with Palace dominating the first half. Randal Kolo Muani and Richarlison combined to set up the 19-year-old, who nodded in from Pedro Porro's corner. It was a timely strike for Tottenham, who moved up to 11th and now sit just four points off fifth-placed Chelsea.
Crystal Palace, meanwhile, suffered a third consecutive league defeat, highlighting the need for January reinforcements under manager Oliver Glasner. The hosts created several chances but failed to convert, with Justin Devenny and Jefferson Lerma among those to squander opportunities.
Tottenham had two goals disallowed for offside—both involving Richarlison—and saw substitute Wilson Odobert hit the inside of the post late on. However, they defended resolutely to secure a vital win ahead of Frank's return to former club Brentford on Wednesday.
