I have resorted to Univision. I don’t have to listen to the absurd blatherings of the ESPN crew and I have this sneaking su####ion that the Mexican announcers actually know what they’re talking about. I really don’t know for sure, but it’s nice assumption thinking that what you’re hearing makes sense (even if it is in another language).
Plus that “GOAAAAAAALLL!” thing is pretty cool.
Finally the introduction of Cahill just killed the tight coverage on Kewell and Viduka eliminating any double team the Japanese were playing earlier. I don't know if Hiddink was just being stupid not bringing Cahill on earlier (see: all the first half's missed opportunities) or if he was just setting the Japanese team up until they got too comfortable.
This wasn’t fatigue because the Japanese were easily getting up and down the field and finding opportunities till the end. They just got out played in the last third of the game (and the last third of the field).
The ESPN/ABC announcers really are horrible. Anyone who is accustomed to the measured, knowledgeable eloquence of English Premiership coverage likely can't stand to listen to the American attempt to cover the Beautiful Game. I am an American, but come on - it sounds like these guys have been calling basketball games since the last World Cup and suddenly are supposed to be taken seriously. Are there any internet broadcasts of quality announcers that simulcast with the games?
I like soccer. I watch a lot of soccer. Sometimes I play soccer and it's a sad site.
I pretty much exclusively support Liverpool after being deserted by the MLS (see: San Jose Clash… I mean Earthquakes… I mean Houston 1836? errr… Dynamo, whatever). I’ve been following the game since 1995, and in-depth since about 2002. I’m currently a senior in college at Arizona and catch Sounders games over the summer in Seattle. So yup, that’s about it.
