Crossword Genius

Many require the protection of fencing (4)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

mask

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

'protection of fencing' is the definition.
'mask' can be an answer for 'protection' (mask is a kind of protection). I'm not certain of the 'of fencing' bit.

'many require' is the wordplay.
'many' becomes 'm' (Roman numeral for a thousand).
'require' becomes 'ask' (synonyms).
'm'+'ask'='MASK'

'the' acts as a link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for mask that I've seen before include "Face-cover" , "cloak" , "Cover for the face" , "Screen" , "Camouflage" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.
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