Commentary
“Left-Footed Kickers” and Other Insights From Dave O’Brien
By John Matelan
March 14, 2006
Can someone please tell me why Dave O’Brien has been given the U.S. soccer play-by-play responsibilities?
Dave has a great voice and loads of experience doing college football and basketball but he clearly does not know much about soccer. Other than pointing out the obvious, and annoying Marcelo Balboa, he’s not bringing much to the broadcasts.
He does not appreciate the subtleties of the game such as a good turn, an overlapping run or the one touch pass. He simply announces passes and shots with his big, booming voice. Apparently, ESPN thinks that’s what will impress the viewers. Why not give us someone who understands and enjoys the game?
Throughout the Poland match, O’Brien referred to Eddie Lewis as a “left-footed kicker.” Showing his knowledge of the opposition, he later referred to one of the Poland players as a “right-footed kicker.” I’ve coached the game for many years and can’t recall even a novice parent referring to their son or daughter as a “kicker.”
Later in the game, O’Brien pointed out that in the 2002 World Cup Poland’s win over the United States in the “consolation round” was the highlight of their tournament. Better purchase your tickets now for this year’s consolation round since tickets are bound to go fast.
Did I mention he has a great voice?
Here’s the guy who, I assume, ESPN has lined up to handle the United States’ games in June and he doesn’t even understand how the tournament is structured. Not that it’s very hard to comprehend since there are only two parts to the tournament – the group stage and the knockout phase. I guess you could also throw in the third place contest but no one really cares about that game.
Balboa must be pulling his long hair out. He’s the lone bright spot in the broadcast booth. From the first time I heard him on HDNet, I loved his direct style. He obviously has a world of playing experience at the highest level but so do many other players. What separates Balboa is his ability to articulately simplify the game for the audience. Also, he’s not afraid to criticize the players and manager or disagree with his broadcast partner.
Near the end of the first half, as the snow continued to fall, O’Brien mentioned to Balboa that the players must be looking forward to getting inside at halftime. I could picture the disgusted look on Balboa’s face when he responded that the last thing the players, particularly in a game this important to their World Cup futures, were thinking about was the cold weather.
By the end of the game I was almost (I said almost) calling for the return of Jack Edwards.
With the World Cup quickly approaching, now is not the time to be breaking in a new soccer play-by-play guy. Coverage of the world’s greatest sporting event deserves a seasoned, professional soccer talent. It’s not like ESPN doesn’t have anyone available to fill the roll. No, not you Rob Stone. Derek Rae or JP Dellacamera would certainly fit the bill.
There are also rumors that Allen Hopkins might be leaving Fox Soccer Channel and heading to ESPN.
Luckily for me, I’ll be in Germany for the World Cup and won’t be forced to listen to any U.S. broadcasts of the games.
For those of you tuning in on ESPN or ABC, keep an eye on that Ronaldinho, I hear he’s a great “right-footed kicker.”