Matchday Armband

I stepped onto the polished wooden bench in the home dressing room to claim my matchday focus. You told me the game was coming, and today is kickoff. Resting beside a crisp, printed team sheet was a thick black elastic band left from the kit bag. I hooked my left arm through the loop, hauled it up to my bicep, and pulled it taut against my red sleeve until it locked like an official captain's armband. I planted both studs firmly on the glossy wood, squared my shoulders, and locked my gaze toward the tunnel entrance. No nerves, just pure intent. When the whistle blows, I run the midfield.