“IT GETS better and better and better” – or does it? Take this quiz on iconic football commentary moments to find out if you’re worthy of a seat in the commentary box.
Sergio Aguero’s title-winning goal was brilliantly accompanied by Martin TylerCredit: News Group Newspapers Ltd
Gordon Banks denied Pele with that famous save at the 1970 World CupCredit: Reuters
Lines like “they think it’s all over…”, “the Crazy Gang has beaten the Culture Club,” and “AGUEROOOOOOOO!” are etched in the memory of fans of the beautiful game.
But do you know who uttered these special words or when they said them? Put your knowledge to the test.
CopyBet.com, which developed the quiz, also commissioned a poll of 2,000 adults who watch football – and found John Motson is their favourite commentator of all time.
A spokesperson said “We’ve been blessed with some amazing commentators over the years and sadly we’ve lost some of the true greats in recent years.
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“For many of us, our memories of particular moments are likely entwined with the lines of commentary.
“It’s hard not to think of that winning goal from Aguero and not hear the words of Martin Tyler or England winning the World Cup and not hear ‘they think it’s all over…’”
Fittingly these two lines of commentary were voted as the most iconic by those polled – Kenneth Wolstenholme’s came top followed by Martin Tyler’s “Aguerooooooo!!”.
While third spot went to Bjørge Lillelien’s “Maggie Thatcher your boys took a hell of a beating” from Norway vs England in 1981.
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The study also revealed who the dream football broadcast team would be made up of.
In addition to featuring commentary from John Motson, it would feature punditry from Alan Shearer, Ian Wright and Roy Keane – and would be presented by Gary Lineker.
The study also revealed what characteristics make for a winning commentator, an entertaining pundit, and a game-changing presenter.
For commentators, player knowledge (33 per cent), impartiality (26 per cent), and the ability to create an engaging narrative (24 per cent) are important.
With pundits, having a solid understanding of the game (36 per cent) is key, as is not being afraid to disagree with colleagues (28 per cent), and an unbiased approach (26 per cent).
When it comes to presenters, knowledge (59 per cent) also appeals to viewers, followed by an ability to keep conversation flowing (38 per cent) and good banter (36 per cent).
And the topics fans especially enjoy their favourite experts discussing include controversial decisions (32 per cent), analysis of individual players (25 per cent), and good attacking moments (22 per cent).
Paul Gascoigne’s superb free-kick against Arsenal was greeted with superb commentaryCredit: PA:Press Association
Wimbledon beat Liverpool in the 1988 FA Cup finalCredit: Getty – Contributor
Part of their fondness for particular pundits, presenters, and commentators also appears to be due to familiarity – 62 per cent said watching or listening to coverage is like spending time with mates.
While 62 per cent also said their favourite football broadcaster takes their mind off worries they might have.
Carried out through OnePoll, the study found those polled listen to two hours and seven minutes of football coverage on the radio a week and watch three hours 28 minutes on TV.
Their top three favourite shows are BBC’s Match of the Day, Sky Sports’ Soccer Saturday, and the soon-to-be departed Soccer AM – also a Sky Sports show.
And the most popular broadcast network for football fans is Sky Sports, followed by the BBC and BT.
A spokesperson for CopyBet.com added: “Football coverage has evolved quite significantly over the years.
“It’s much more in-depth and detailed in the modern era – especially among networks which are able to air hours of matches and analysis.
“And while that’s enhanced the viewer experience, one constant has been the personalities involved and the chemistry particular pundits, presenters, and commentators have with one another.”
Gary Lineker, Alan Shearer and Ian Wright are among the nation’s favourite on TVCredit: BBCBest lines, commentators, presenters and pundits
TOP 10 MOST ICONIC LINES OF COMMENTARY
“Some people are on the pitch, they think it’s all over, it is now!” (Kenneth Wolstenholme – England vs West Germany 1966 World Cup Final)
“Manchester City are still alive here. Balotelli…Agueroooooooooooooooo!!!! I swear you’ll never see anything like this ever again!” (Martin Tyler – Manchester City vs QPR 2012)
“Maggie Thatcher your boys took a hell of a beating” (Bjørge Lillelien – Norway vs England 1981)
“Is Gascoigne going to have a crack? He is you know. Oh, I say! Brilliant! That is schoolboys own stuff!” (Barry Davies – Arsenal vs Spurs 1991 FA Cup semi-finals)
“The Crazy Gang has beaten the Culture Club” (John Motson – Wimbledon vs Liverpool 1986 FA Cup final)
“What a save, what a save! Gordon Banks!” (David Coleman – England vs Brazil 1970 World Cup)
“And Solskjaer has won it!” (Clive Tyldesley – Manchester United vs Bayern Munich 1999 Champions League Final)
“Oh, this is getting better and better and better. One, two, three for Michael Owen!” (John Motson – England vs Germany 2001)
“Oh you beauty! What a hit, son! What a hit!” (Andy Gray – Liverpool vs Olympiacos 2005 Champions League)
“Roma have risen from their ruins! Manolas, the Greek God in Rome! The unthinkable unfolds before our eyes! This was not meant to happen! This could not happen! THIS IS HAPPENING!” (Peter Drury – Roma vs Barcelona 2018 Champions League quarter final)
TOP 5 BEST COMMENTATORS
John Motson – 32 per cent
Brian Moore – 14 per cent
David Coleman – 13 per cent
Clive Tyldesley – 11 per cent
Martin Tyler – 11 per cent
TOP 5 BEST PRESENTERS
Gary Lineker – 34 per cent
Jeff Stelling – 24 per cent
Des Lynam – 21 per cent
Brian Moore – 12 per cent
Gabby Logan – 12 per cent
TOP 5 BEST PUNDITS
Alan Shearer – 16 per cent
Ian Wright – 16 per cent
Roy Keane – 14 per cent
Gary Neville – 14 per cent
Ally McCoist – 12 per cent More
