Crossword Genius

That's the last time - I always lose (5,5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

never again

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

'that's' is the definition.
Both the definition and answer are adverbs.
Maybe you can see a link between them that I can't see?

'last time i always lose' is the wordplay.
I cannot really understand how this works, but
'time' could be 'again' (I have seen 'Next time' mean 'again' so perhaps 'time' could also mean 'again') and 'again' is present in the answer.
'always' could be 'ever' (synonyms) and 'ever' is present in the answer.
A single letter 'n' remains which might be clued in a way I don't see.
This may be the basis of the clue (or it may be nonsense).

'the' is the link.

Can you help me to learn more?

I've seen this clue in The Irish Independent.
Want a hint initially instead of a full solution? Install my app