Lovatts Giant Cryptic

[puzzleworm]

Clue is : After the first duellist’s back-up (6). Letters so far are as follows:
?e?o?d. Think it may be second but not sure why! Many thanks in advance.

[cashier]

After the first = second

[Captain2]

A duellist always had a 'second' on hand to pass the gun and/or pick up the body! ;0)))

[mallyh]

yes someone having a duel has a second