Crossword Genius

Like Jack and Jill, they are non winners (7-2)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

runners-up

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

'non winners' is the definition.
The answer and definition can be both people as well as being plural nouns.
Perhaps they are linked in a way I don't understand?

'like jack and jill they' is the wordplay.
I cannot quite understand how this works, but
'jack' could be 'runner' (runner is a kind of jack) and 'runner' is located in the answer.
The remaining letters 'sup' is a valid word which might be clued in a way I don't see.
This may be the basis of the clue (or it may be nonsense).

'are' is the link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for runners-up that I've seen before include "Those in second place" , "Silver medallists" , "Those finishing second" , "Those placed second" , "They get silver" .)

I've seen this clue in the Sydney Morning Herald.
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