Crossword Genius

Torpedoed, but don't let go, we hear (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

holed

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'torpedoed' is the definition.
Although both the answer and definition are past participle verbs, I can't see how one could define the other.

'don't let go we hear' is the wordplay.
'don't let' becomes 'ho' (I can't justify this - if you can you should believe this answer much more).
'go' becomes 'lead' (synonyms).
'we hear' shows a homophone (sound like).
'lead' sounds like 'led'.
'ho'+'led'='HOLED'

'but' acts as a link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for holed that I've seen before include "Like leaky vessel?" , "Perforated" , "Potted (ball)" , "Likely to sink" , "Pierced side" .)

I've seen this clue in The Irish News.
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