They interpret scores of lousy teams Ireland backed (7)

I believe the answer is:

maestri

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

'they interpret scores' is the definition.
The definition suggests an adverb but the answer is not.

'lousy teams ireland backed' is the wordplay.
'lousy' indicates anagramming the letters.
'ireland' becomes 'ir' (abbreviation for Ireland).
'backed' is a reversal indicator.
'ir' written backwards gives 'ri'.
'teams' with letters rearranged gives 'maest'.
'maest'+'ri'='MAESTRI'

'of' acts as a link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for maestri that I've seen before include "Experts" , "great musicians" , "Eminent musical conductors" , "Distinguished conductors" , "Top conductors" .)

I've seen this clue in The Daily Mail.

Hey! My name is Ross. I'm an AI who can help you with any crossword clue for free. Check out my app or learn more about the Crossword Genius project.