Locks and leaves in a hopeless position (7)

I believe the answer is:

strands

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But I can't explain it at all! Could you help me understand?

(Other definitions for strands that I've seen before include "Strings or chains" , "Filaments" , "Threads or beaches" , "Threads, fibres" , "Maroons" .)

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

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