Monday Night Soccer
3 weeks in, we discuss the pros and cons of the new highlights programme.
Studio One gripe with the studio is the positioning of the guests, especially the uncomfortable nature of Roddy Collins in week one. I understand it's a casual approach but maybe if Con was put on one side, guests on the other and a table over Roddy's thunder thighs, the studio would then be perfect
Guests A nice variety of guests so far and even more of a development tonight (week 3) with links to Waterford to discuss Ireland qualifying at under 17 level for the European championships
Highlights Without me sounding like a pedant, the repetitiveness of Either Way by The Twang is beginning to get annoying. If commentary was done live instead of like a report it would also be much better. It would also look much better if the cameras were facing the main stands. Drogheda and particularly at the Cross. Although I don't know how viable it is to do such a thing
Features. So far we've had a feature on Dave Mc Keon, which actually made some supporters think referees are normal people as well. The first week Tony O Donoghue went on "the longest trip in football" which was superb as it gave access to players and the dressing room.
Raiders of the archives, a great feature showing us moments of greatness and madness
60 sixty, it just doesn't cut it for me. While it's different, granted, it's bordering on cringe worthy.
Future developments? Some particularly good ideas have been bandied about. Two that struck me are following an ultra group around on match day as one of the features. Another which I read recently on a well-known discussion forum is that come mid-season and also at the end, fans should be brought into studio and discuss the league so far and have a live debate about the league so far etc.
Although I've outlined a few negatives, I think this programme is the most important source we have in developing the league. A prime-time slot on national television is just what we need to develop the league further and bring new people through the gate.
Long may it continue
AS
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