What does the cryptic crossword clue "Close to goal - end is excited! (9)" mean?

The definition is "Close to". The wordplay uses an anagram. anagram of GOAL + END + IS = ALONGSIDE; definition: "Close to" The answer is ALONGSIDE.

Close to goal - end is excited! (9)

Independent Cryptic #11974 | 10 Across | 2025-02-24 flower