SUPER CRYPTIC CROSSWORD

ACROSS

1 Speaks ill of, as a footballer who plays dirty (9)

6 A vice doctors have (5)

9 As I take the railway back into the country (5)

10 Better shelter is found in the grass (9) 11 More convinced than ever, after playing with, as a partner? (6,4)

12 She’s urging on the gunner (4)

14 The nun’s upset about the lace being torn and dirty (7)

15 Having the locks put back is sweet (7) 17 Guards who won’t let anybody get off! (7) 19 Before the nobleman and I returned (7) 20 Very interested in the new role (4) 22 Writes a letter and so attempts to get one out of a hole? (5,1,4)

25 Belong with the paperchain and a tin, outside (9)

26 Allow, in general (5)

27 It feels smooth and silky, to a girl’s back (5)

28 A flower or weed, perhaps, that has charm about it (9)

DOWN

1 Established one has quarters, though not good outside (5)

2 Spot something in the jeweller’s window (9)

3 Certainly how the ruthless are prepared to gain their ends (2,3,5)

4 Gets going and attacks (5,2)

5 Got better after half the dose (7)

6 That’s pointless, my dear (4)

7 The goods sent by road leave (5) 8 Character that funny, crazy dream was about (3,6)

13 In the way intended, the forged Degas took in the island (2,8)

14 Doesn’t fully satisfy (9)

16 One mile out, with a neat flick, get rid of it (9)

18 Waters about a thousand asters, spraying them (7)

19 At once, writes: “A quarter the cost” (7) 21 Beat the birdie! (5)

23 From many, uplifting praise (5)

24 Were having a wee drop in the drink, for a laugh (4)