LONDON — There's nothing quite like an episode of University Challenge to drum up some intense Twitter conversation.

We all remember the man who wore a leather vest and that guy who was afraid of buzzers from the last series of the BBC Two quiz show, and the first episode of the new series — which aired on Monday night — didn't disappoint when it came to the contestants.

In the spotlight this time were two University of Bristol students — Alice Clarke, who was studying Medicine, and Michael Tomsett, who was taking a PhD in Organic Chemistry.

Throughout the show, their shared interactions covered pretty much the entire spectrum of human emotions.

There were questioning looks...

...moments of disappointment...

...mild bickering...





...and affection.

The whole thing sent Twitter into a frenzy of speculation.

I think Clarke and Tomsett have something going on. THE EYES. #universitychallenge — Emma Kelly (@TooManyEmmas) July 11, 2016

Clarke and Tomsett touched hands. Thank god Bristol got through so I can follow this brainy love story. #universitychallenge — Emma Kelly (@TooManyEmmas) July 11, 2016

What's up with Clarke and Tomsett? This is like 'Moonlighting' #UniversityChallenge — Richard Osman (@richardosman) July 11, 2016

Only Tomsett can make Clarke smile. #universitychallenge — Peter Mannion MP (@PeterMannionMP) July 11, 2016

The sexual tension between Clarke and Tomsett. Christ #universitychallenge — Jess (@jsills23) July 11, 2016

Ultimately, though, whether their bond was simply the deep intensity of shared quizzing or something more, it paid off — the Bristol team beat the University of Sheffield 210 points to 130, securing them a place in the second round.

Clarke and Tomsett share a victory smile at the end of the quiz. Image: bbc

Watch this space.

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