Crossword Genius

Puts effort into scores (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

tries

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

'puts' is the definition.
The definition and answer can be both acts as well as being plural nouns.
Maybe there's an association between them I don't understand?

I don't understand the remainder of the clue.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for tries that I've seen before include "Attempts" , "Scoring moves in rugby" .)

I've seen this clue in the Sydney Morning Herald.
Want a hint initially instead of a full solution? Install my app