One needs to be a fast mover in this mating game (5,5)
I believe the answer is:
speed chess
'one needs to be a fast mover in this mating game' is the definition.
The definition suggests a singular noun which matches the answer. I also know that 'game' relates to this answer.
'mating game' is the wordplay.
'mating' becomes 'speed' (I can't explain this - if you can you should believe this answer much more).
'game' becomes 'chess' (board game).
'speed'+'chess'='SPEED CHESS'
Can you help me to learn more?
(Other definitions for speed chess that I've seen before include "which leaves little time for mate" , "movement of men with expedition" , "attempt to mate quickly" .)