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Mark the Clown

Video Review: WPC Final, Wrexham v Swansea, BBC 2 Wales

To start with, anyone who watched the coverage on BBC 2 Wales of last year's WPC final will remember that this was the occasion when Mark Aizlewood made remarks that were investigated by the Commission for Racial Equality in light of his outrageous comments during the half-time break. Truly, Mr Aizlewood, you are a clown of the highest order, and if the BBC had any sense, we would never have to suffer yourself and your 'views' on the again. At a time when groups such as Football Unites, Racism Divides are making such valuable strides forward in stamping racism out of the modern game, and indeed when the very game this berk is alleged to be an expert on features three T&T internationals, and different nationalities in the Swans side, such comments are totally indefensible. I was debating whether to quote Aizlewood word for word in this review, but decided against giving his comments any more attention.
His comments stemmed from a very nasty elbow on Macca from Swansea's forward Zaverese, which in all fairness could have decapitated him. But to judge such actions as the likely result of foreign players' emergence into the British game, and as the likely actions of all overseas players in general, is simply naïve and ignorant. One needs only to look as far as Carlos, Dennis, and Hector to see the enthusiasm and sportsmanship that these particular imports have for the British game. I can only really judge that Aizlewood is trying to construct an image as a controversial pundit in order to make up for his reputation as a workmanlike player. But, as he has shown, he has neither the wit nor intelligence to do so. Mark Aizlewood, your taxi awaits. 

Despite the above, BBC Wales' coverage of the match itself was a joy to watch. With anchorman Oliver Hindes and his other studio guests, Dai Davies and RP's own Mickey T, the presentation was both enthusiastic and created an air of expectation for the match itself. BBC Wales have certainly learnt from the brash, sometimes over-the top expressionism of Sky's football coverage, and blended it with the more considered MOTD-style of the Beeb itself. And for a tournament like the WPC, the format is ideal. The enthusiasm for the competition is evident throughout, which can only benefit the cup in the long run. If a UEFA place is eventually granted, it will prove to be a more worthwhile exercise. The highlights of the coverage itself where many, not least Trundle proving he can actually head the ball when he puts his mind to it. Honest, Lee, it doesn't hurt that much! He also has the best accent in the world, a kind of ultra-Scouse drawl that would probably prove too much for even Brookside to handle. It was fairly amusing to watch Macca being harassed by some pre-pubescent Swansea fans, and his expression turning from mild anger to barely controlled rage in the space of about ten seconds of his interview. 

But the highlight of all was proving that once again, and at a canter, that we are by far and away the best team in Wales.

James Morris