Why is it that American TV commentators get so carried away trying to explain a simple sport?
During ESPN’s MLS opener telecast, we had Bill McDermott say things like: “The chances are really starting to flow now backwards and forwards for both clubs because of quick one-touch balls out of the backfield and a change of flow from the right back to the left-wing corner flag and consequently Ben Iroha is getting in deep for the San Jose Clash.”
McDermott was getting deep into something else as a sideline reporter. Are these guys paid by the word?
Color commentator Ty Keough told us that Marco Etcheverry had eyes in the back of his head, and added: “He knows what’s going on around him as well.” That’s using a clichÄ and explaining it.
Phil Schoen was supposed to be doing play-by-play — which by my definition means telling us who has the ball. But he gives so much background information that he makes Keough seem superfluous — something Keough does well on his own.
I went to the game, sat in the stands, and had a marvelous time amid a World Cup atmosphere. Two days later, I watched the tape, and saw that the ambiance was conveyed fairly well.
The show’s introduction? An excellent montage emphasizing soccer’s internationalism. Too bad ESPN missed the historic kickoff.
I liked how they (unintentionally?) made it look like McDermott arrived via parachute.
At halftime, the “Kids Ask the Pros” feature was cute, but why not show Eric Wynalda’s favorite goal? Camera angles and replays were decent. The telecast ended with a fine slow-motion replay of Wynalda’s goal, leaving us looking forward to the next telecast.
But there’s one thing you’ve got to do: stop your babbling.
by Soccer America Senior Editor Mike Woitalla