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cruciluci
The other two groups are four synonyms of one of the two main thematic items and the four longer items that all have an appendage (front or back) of the other thematic item

I am definitely struggling. I thought I had 1 across (from the fourth Wall clue) although I hadn’t fully parsed it. But 2 down has scuppered that. I now have “Ham?ni?ed” which is mince. A nudge (or possibly a massive shove) would be welcome.

Think soccer ( or “football “ if you must)

Of course I must call it football , buddy, that's its name!!

I think buddy's from America, bobbycollins (where they play ''football'' with their hands}.

Hey, soccer’s your word, we’re just keeping it warm for you.

...that spherical thing with pointy ends wouldn't dribble well.

Thank you, Buddy. Seems like I got the wrong clue, too… Stripping layers of wallpaper (at least four, possibly more) which have been laid on top of each other back almost 100 years must be taking its toll on me!

Well, I’ve got the two main thematic items and I’m still grid-staring. Are the two blocks in straight lines?

Yes (the preamble also mentions orientation/direction).