The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 7 letter word DERBIES
I've seen this crossword clue in The Guardian
D
E
R
B
I
E
S
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "Spurs v Arsenal etc/Spurs v Arsenal etc" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case spurs v arsenal etc/spurs v arsenal etc = derbies.The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does DERBIES mean?
DERBIES noun- Any of several annual horse races.
- (by extension) Any organized race.
- A bowler hat.
- A local derby.