Crossword Genius

Jacks lost after playing bowls? (7,6)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

spanish armada

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

This might be a double definition.

'jacks' is the first definition.
The answer and definition can be both acts as well as being singular nouns.
Perhaps they are linked in a way I don't understand?

'lost after playing bowls?' is the second definition.
The answer and definition can be both acts as well as being singular nouns.
Maybe there's an association between them I don't understand?

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for spanish armada that I've seen before include "Fleet that sailed from Lisbon in May fifteen eighty eight" , "1588 invasion fleet" , "1588 invasion force" , "Fleet sent against England in 1588" , "Famous naval fleet" .)

I've seen this clue in The Telegraph.
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