They admit they're often punched (7)
I believe the answer is:
tickets
'they' is the definition.
Both the definition and answer are plural nouns.
Maybe you can see a link between them that I don't see?
I don't understand the remainder of the clue.
Can you help me to learn more?
(Other definitions for tickets that I've seen before include "Printed pieces of paper as issued for travellers" , "Permits" , "Notices" , "vouchers" .)