Pierce; attempt (4)
I believe the answer is:
stab
I believe this clue is a double definition.
'pierce' is the first definition.
(I've seen this in another clue)
'attempt' is the second definition.
(I've seen this before)
(Other definitions for stab that I've seen before include "Wound with a dagger" , "Thrust (weapon into)" , "Impale; attempt" , "Sudden sharp pain" , "Jab" .)