Tottenham’s rising star Archie Gray drew criticism from Arsenal fans after firing the ball into the away end during Sunday’s fiery North London derby.
The 19-year-old was seen launching the ball toward the travelling supporters shortly after team-mate Randal Kolo Muani had equalised for Spurs in the first half.
Clips of the moment rapidly circulated on social media, prompting outrage among Arsenal supporters, many of whom believed Gray was lucky to avoid harsher punishment. Several demanded a suspension, with one fan insisting he “has to be banned,” while another argued it “should definitely be a ban.” A third claimed the referee “bottled it” by not sending him off.
Match official Peter Bankes issued the youngster a yellow card, and he was subsequently approached by Arsenal defender Gabriel MagalhĂŁes, who appeared to have seen the incident unfold.
Earlier in the campaign, Sheffield United manager Chris Wilder was dismissed and later charged by the FA after kicking a ball into the crowd during a loss to Southampton. However, former PGMOL chief Keith Hackett has suggested that similar sanctions for Gray are unlikely.
In comments to Tottenham Hotspur News, Hackett explained that players celebrate in various ways and expressed hope that, instead of imposing fines or suspensions, the FA would simply contact the club to remind players about supporter safety and discourage a repeat.
Any celebration for Gray and Spurs proved brief. Arsenal seized control soon after the interval, with Viktor Gyökeres putting them back in front early in the second half.
The Gunners then took command, securing a commanding 4–1 win — their second victory by that scoreline over Spurs this season. Doubles from Eberechi Eze and Gyökeres restored a five-point cushion at the top of the Premier League, while Tottenham sank further into a nervy relegation fight.
