Like first position reversed, bit by bit, of late (6)
I believe the answer is:
foetal
'like first position' is the definition.
'foetal' can be an answer for 'position' (I have seen 'defensive position' mean 'foetal' so perhaps 'position' could also mean 'foetal'). I'm not sure about the 'like first' bit.
'reversed bit by bit of late' is the wordplay.
'of late' can be anagrammed to 'FOETAL'.
Though, I'm unsure how the anagram is indicated.
Can you help me to learn more?
(Other definitions for foetal that I've seen before include "Relating to an unborn in the later stages of development" , "defensive position" , "regarding developing creature?" , "Relating to the baby in the womb" , "Relating to unborn child" .)