Motty: Forty Years In The Commentary Box: A Journey Through Time and Football

John Motson, the legendary football commentator affectionately known as Motty, has graced our screens and airwaves for over four decades, captivating audiences with his infectious enthusiasm, evocative storytelling, and encyclopedic knowledge of the beautiful game.

Humble Beginnings

Motty's journey into the world of football commentary began in the early 1970s. After a brief stint as a newspaper reporter, he joined the BBC as a radio commentator in 1971. It was during this time that he earned his iconic nickname, thanks to his distinctive pronunciation of the word "commentary."

Motty: Forty Years in the Commentary Box

by John Motson

4.3 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	7061 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	432 pages
Hardcover	:	168 pages
Item Weight	:	11.7 ounces
Dimensions	:	5.5 x 0.58 x 8.5 inches
Paperback	:	258 pages

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Rise to Prominence

Motty's breakthrough came in 1979 when he was assigned to commentate on an FA Cup match between Hereford United and Newcastle United. Hereford, a non-league club, pulled off a remarkable upset against their illustrious opponents, and Motty's passionate and animated commentary captured the imagination of millions of viewers.

From that moment on, Motty's star began to rise. He became the BBC's lead football commentator, covering major tournaments such as the World Cup and European Championships. His unique style and ability to convey the excitement and drama of the game made him a household name.

Memorable Moments

Over the years, Motty has witnessed and commentated on some of the most iconic moments in football history. From Diego Maradona's "Hand of God" goal to Zinedine Zidane's infamous headbutt in the 2006 World Cup final, Motty's voice has provided the soundtrack to countless unforgettable matches.

Unique Style

Motty's commentary style is instantly recognizable. His infectious enthusiasm, coupled with his detailed knowledge of the game and his knack for creating vivid imagery, made him a true master of his craft.

Motty's catchphrases, such as "It's a goal!," "The commentator's curse," and "And they're off!," have become synonymous with football commentary and have entered the lexicon of popular culture.

Legacy

Motty's impact on the world of football commentary is immeasurable. His passionate and evocative style has inspired generations of commentators and brought the beautiful game to life for millions of fans around the world.

Retirement

In 2018, after an illustrious career spanning four decades, Motty announced his retirement from the commentary box. While his voice will no longer be heard on our screens and airwaves, his legacy will live on through the countless memories he has created for football fans.

Motty Motson's forty years in the commentary box have been a testament to his passion for football and his unwavering commitment to bringing the beautiful game to life for millions of fans. His unique style, his iconic catchphrases, and his unforgettable moments have cemented his status as one of the greatest football commentators of all time.

As we bid farewell to Motty, we celebrate his extraordinary contribution to the world of sports broadcasting and thank him for the countless hours of entertainment and unforgettable memories.

Motty: Forty Years in the Commentary Box

by John Motson

4.3 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	7061 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	432 pages
Hardcover	:	168 pages
Item Weight	:	11.7 ounces
Dimensions	:	5.5 x 0.58 x 8.5 inches
Paperback	:	258 pages

FREE