1.   The defenders are able to say that the challengers of the conventional wisdom have not mastered their intricacies.

2.   The defenders were able to hold on for several weeks.

3.   One keen defender is the present prime minister, Mrs. Thatcher.

4.   Also outspoken Friday were defenders Alexi Lalas and Jeff Agoos, who were the only field players not to get playing time.

5.   As a tactical matter, defenders are bigger, stronger, faster, smarter.

6.   Against Dallas Sunday, some Giants defenders were so exhausted they had to sit out.

7.   Both defenders were right, sort of.

8.   But beyond his arm strength, Jets defenders are impressed with his intelligence.

9.   But his defenders were everywhere.

10.   But its defenders have been just as fierce in their loyalty.