Crossword Genius

A tail, perhaps, caught right in what should catch the head (6)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

lariat

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

'what should catch the head' is the definition.
I can't judge whether this defines the answer.

'a tail perhaps caught right' is the wordplay.
'perhaps' is an anagram indicator.
'caught' indicates putting letters inside.
'right' becomes 'ar' (I've seen this in other clues).
'tail' with letters rearranged gives 'liat'.
'liat' going around 'ar' is 'LARIAT'.

'in' is the link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for lariat that I've seen before include "Line of cowboy" , "Rope to lasso or tether" , "Mortar-spreading tool" , "Cowboy's rope (of Spanish origin)" , "A trail (anag) - rope" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.
Want a hint initially instead of a full solution? Install my app