Crossword Genius

Work hard in attempt to get prize (6)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

trophy

'prize' is the definition.
('trophy' can be a synonym of 'prize')

'work hard in attempt' is the wordplay.
'work' becomes 'op' (abbreviation for opus).
'hard' becomes 'h'.
'in' indicates putting letters inside.
'attempt' becomes 'try' (I've seen this before).
'op'+'h'='oph'
'oph' placed within 'try' is 'TROPHY'.

'to get' is the link.

(Other definitions for trophy that I've seen before include "Memento of success" , "Cup given as prize for victory" , "Prize symbolising victory" , "leading award" , "Award cup" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.
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