There was a round of loud applause from the fans of both teams.

The players presented a fine appearance.

The earnest, "do or die" expression on every face made the spectators feel that the coming game would be well worth seeing.
The rival captains faced each other, ready to jump for the ball the instant it left the referee's hands.

There was a moment of expectant silence; then the referee put the ball in play, the whistle blew and the game began.

Both captains sprang for the ball, but alas for the sophomores, Julia Crosby caught it and threw it to the junior right forward.