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Horse down under Midlands city in reserve (6)

direction: down
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Source: Mephisto 3083 https://times-xwd-times.livejournal.com/2218482.html

See replies for a hint, the answer, and an explanation

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Mar 22 at 6:00amWeb
Show threadLearn Cryptic Crosswords2d ago

B_U_B_

[this post gives you every second letter of the answer to help you solve the clue]

Show threadLearn Cryptic Crosswords2d ago

BRUMBY

[this post gives you the answer without any explanation to help you interpret the clue by yourself]

Show threadLearn Cryptic Crosswords2d ago

BRUMBY

Explanation:

BRUM•BY

Midlands city = BRUM (nickname for Birmingham)
In reserve = BY (as in, laid by)

Horse down under = BRUMBY

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Brumby is not simply an Australian word for a horse, it's a particular type of horse, which is the USA would be a "mustang", i.e. a feral horse.