Archie Gray scored his first Tottenham goal to secure a 1-0 win at Crystal Palace, easing pressure on manager Thomas Frank. The 19-year-old midfielder's scrappy header in the first half proved decisive, lifting Spurs to within one point of Palace in the Premier League table.
Gray, who joined from Leeds in summer 2024, became the youngest Englishman to score for Tottenham in the Premier League since Dele Alli at the same ground in January 2016. He left the pitch to a standing ovation and a hug from Frank, who praised his growth after a mistake in a previous game against Nottingham Forest.
Spurs recorded their first away win since early November, despite having two Richarlison goals disallowed for offside. The victory was achieved without captain Cristian Romero and playmaker Xavi Simons, both suspended after red cards against Liverpool, and amid a long injury list.
Crystal Palace dominated possession but failed to convert chances, with Jean-Philippe Mateta, Justin Devenny, and Maxence Lacroix all missing opportunities. Palace have now failed to win any of their last five matches, and 12 of the 20 league goals they have conceded this season have come from set pieces.
Thomas Frank praised his side's resilience, saying: 'I think Archie is growing. He made a mistake in the Nottingham game and played another good game against Liverpool. He is growing as a young man. I loved that goal because he was alert.'
