The rivalry between Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur, known as the North London derby, has its roots going back over 100 years. You could say it began after Arsenal’s move to Highbury in 1913. This relocation, just four miles from Tottenham’s White Hart Lane, which ignited a fierce local rivalry that has only intensified over the years.
Tottenham fans were understandably resentful, viewing Highbury as their territory, and this animosity set the stage for what would become one of football’s most intense rivalries. The first competitive clash after Arsenal’s move occurred on January 15, 1921, where Tottenham triumphed 2-1 at their home ground. However, the matches were often marred by bitterness, with a particularly brutal encounter in September 1922 leading to both clubs being reprimanded by the Football Association.
The rivalry escalated further after World War I when Arsenal’s controversial promotion to the First Division in 1919, despite finishing sixth in the Second Division, left Tottenham furious.
Arsenal’s chairman, Sir Henry Norris, allegedly engaged in underhanded tactics to secure the vote that granted Arsenal the promotion, a claim that has never been forgotten or forgiven in the minds of Spurs fans ever since.
As an Arsenal supporter, it’s hard not to relish the historical context of our club’s success compared to Tottenham’s struggles. Over the years, Arsenal has consistently finished above Spurs in the league, leading to the notoriously famous celebration of “St. Totteringham’s Day,” a day when Arsenal fans rejoice in Tottenham’s inability to surpass them in the league standings.
While the 2022-23 season saw the return of this celebration after a seven-year hiatus, it serves as a reminder of Arsenal’s dominance in North London. Despite Tottenham’s recent attempts to close the gap, including their rise in the Premier League, they have not won a league title in over 60 years, while Arsenal has claimed three since the Premier League’s inception in 1992.
The contrast in silverware is stark, and as an ardent Gooner, it’s satisfying to see our club’s rich history compared against Spurs’ ongoing quest for a Premier League trophy.The North London derby is not just about the matches; it’s about pride, history, and the fierce competition that defines our local rivalry. Each encounter is charged with emotion, and the stakes are always high, making every game a must-watch event for fans. As we look ahead, the rivalry continues to evolve, but one thing remains clear: Arsenal’s place in North London is firmly established, and the Gunners will always strive to maintain that supremacy over Tottenham.
This season’s first North London Derby is due to be in just three week’s time at the Tottenham Stadium, and it is possible that we could both be unbeaten going into the game, Due to the fierce rivalry, Arsenal will be a very good price to take all three points, and I for one will be taking up the Paddy Power sign up offer, so I can put all my free bonus money on a guaranteed Arsenal win. We managed a thrilling 3-2 win in this game last season in our race fo the title, but I am certain we will be winning this year’s version in a much easier fashion.
And once again, North London will be Red!
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