What does the cryptic crossword clue "Cross after hints about what a naughty child might throw (8)" mean?

The wordplay uses a reversal. TIPS (reversal="TIPS") + BALL (synonym="e.g. a cross in football etc (I think") = SPITBALL The answer is SPITBALL.

Cross after hints about what a naughty child might throw (8)

Guardian Cryptic #29083 | 21 Across | 2023-05-30 flower