Crossword Genius

Bale occasionally finishes matches (6)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

blends

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'matches' is the definition.
The answer and definition can be both related to natural events as well as being plural nouns.
Perhaps they are linked in a way I don't understand?

'bale occasionally finishes' is the wordplay.
'occasionally' indicates alternate letters.
'finishes' becomes 'ends' ('end' can be a synonym of 'finish').
The alternating letters of 'bale' are 'bl'.
'bl'+'ends'='BLENDS'

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for blends that I've seen before include "Mixes into one" , "Combines into one" , "Mixes and combines" , "Mixes together" , "Compounds" .)

I've seen this clue in The Guardian.
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