Tonight was very special for another reason. While a full farewell would be somewhat premature, as he will continue to commentate for the highlights of English club football for at least one more season, this is the last time we’ll hear John Motson, BBC narrator of our beloved game for nearly 40 years, oversee a live football match. And for Motty aficionados (a group in which I certainly include myself) it marks the beginning of the end for his unparalleled statistical knowledge being heard in our living rooms. You see, his finest moments tend to come when commentating on live games, in big tournaments like the World or FA Cups. His stats, like the man himself, rise to meet the occasion. As much as we love The Great Sheepskin-Coated One, hearing how many league goals Carlton Cole hasn’t scored in all the years of his career doesn’t really compare with the big stuff like how many times a German has missed a spot-kick in a shootout since the 1976 European Championship final against Czechoslovakia. Which is just the once, by the way.
In support of his decision not to commentate on the 2010 World Cup, Motson says he wishes to go out while it’s still not too late, while he’s still able to perform. Such professionalism is genuinely heartening, and it's reassuring to know BBC commentary (let’s not even discuss ITV’s coverage, which pales in comparison) should be in safe hands, not least with Jonathan Pearce who, it must be said, loves a bit of football.
Arise Sir Motson, if you please.
In support of his decision not to commentate on the 2010 World Cup, Motson says he wishes to go out while it’s still not too late, while he’s still able to perform. Such professionalism is genuinely heartening, and it's reassuring to know BBC commentary (let’s not even discuss ITV’s coverage, which pales in comparison) should be in safe hands, not least with Jonathan Pearce who, it must be said, loves a bit of football.
Arise Sir Motson, if you please.
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