Escape to a match? (5)

I believe the answer is:

elope

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'escape' is the definition.
(I know that elope is a more specific form of do a runner)

I don't understand how the rest of the clue works.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for elope that I've seen before include "Do a runner" , "Run off with Mr/Ms Right" , "Run away together" , "Bolt" , "Run away with lover" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.

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