The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 7 letter word PILLARS
I've seen this crossword clue in The Times
P
I
L
L
A
R
S
More clues leading to the result PILLARS
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "Supporters" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case supporters = pillars.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 PILLARS mean?
PILLARS noun- A large post, often used as supporting architecture.
- Something resembling such a structure.
- An essential part of something that provides support.
- A portable ornamental column, formerly carried before a cardinal, as emblematic of his support to the church.
- The centre of the volta, ring, or manege ground, around which a horse turns.