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No early start for pewter broken by cad (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

twerp

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'cad' is the definition.
The answer and definition can be both people as well as being singular nouns.
Maybe they are linked in a way I don't understand?

I don't understand the rest of the clue.

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(Other definitions for twerp that I've seen before include "In slang, a stupid or objectionable person" , "Numpty" , "Pillock" , "Twit" , "Silly-billy" .)

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