in the clutch

: to grasp or hold with or as if with the hand or claws usually strongly, tightly, or suddenly

: clench

: to seek to grasp and hold

: the claws or a hand in the act of grasping or seizing firmly

: an often cruel or unrelenting control, power, or possession

: the act of grasping, holding, or restraining

: made or done in a crucial situation

: successful in a crucial situation

: a nest of eggs or a brood of chicks

: group, bunch