Crossword Genius

Facing archdeacon, counterpart appearing powerless (6)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

veneer

'facing' is the definition.
('veneer' can be a synonym of 'facing')

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

(Other definitions for veneer that I've seen before include "Evener (anag.)" , "Decorative surface layer" , "Thin wood facade" , "A thin outer layer" , "False front" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.
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