The captains and some of the officials were holding a consultation near the centre of the field. It was soon over, and the referee placed the ball in the centre of the circle.
The two teams spread out and lined up in regular order. The game was about to begin.
Vernell was a clever man at centre. He waited until Hackett placed his stick, after which he quickly placed his in such a position as to balk the effort he fancied the Hopkins man intended to make.
The whistle sounded.
Hackett attempted to draw the ball, but with a snap Vernell defeated him and obtained it, quickly passing it to Merry, who was in position to take it.
Merry scooped it as Mowry came in on him.
Mowry tried a “check up,” but was a second too late, and Frank got away with the ball, although the Hopkins player was right on him.
Merry was forced to pass, and he sent the ball to Onslaw with a quick “tip.”
Lowe attempted a check with his stick, but Onslaw turned in such a way that the move to balk him failed.