Crossword Genius

Cross about game before knock down -- that hurt spirit (5,10)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

robin goodfellow

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'spirit' is the definition.
(I've seen this before)

'cross about game before knock down that hurt' is the wordplay.
I cannot really understand how this works, but
'game' could be 'bingo' (bingo is a game) and 'bingo' is found within the answer.
'cross' could be 'rood' (term for a crucifix) and 'rood' is found in the leftover letters.
'before' could be 'e' (I've seen this in other clues) and 'e' is located in the answer.
'down' could be 'low' (associated in meaning) and 'low' is located in the answer.
This may be the basis of the clue (or it may be nonsense).

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for robin goodfellow that I've seen before include "Shakespearean knave" , "Brownie" , "Prankster" , "Mischief-maker" , "Puck" .)

I've seen this clue in The Telegraph.
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