Cryptic crossword clue
Team’s holding line after defender’s lapses 10

The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 10 letter word BACKSLIDES

I've seen this crossword clue in The Times
B
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Buddy explains!

The straight part
We know that "lapses" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case lapses = backslides.
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 BACKSLIDES mean?

BACKSLIDES noun
  1. A backward regression; a reverting back to a worse state.
  2. A dance move in which the feet are alternately slid back and the heels lifted, giving the illusion of walking forwards while actually moving backwards; later popularly called the moonwalk.
BACKSLIDES verb
  1. To regress; to slip backwards or revert to a previous, worse state.
  2. To shirk responsibility; to renege on one's obligations or commitments.

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