Elmwood Park Soccer

By: alfredb
I have followed European football closely for nearly two decades, but I get an extra buzz each time I see the English Premiership or discuss its football. I have noticed the same passion among soccer fans who show more excitement when the discussion or viewing shifts to the Premiership.

What are the reasons for this keen interest in the football played in England?

My research has revealed the following facts:

The Pace

The pace of the English game is fast, fluid and furious, and it therefore makes viewing it more attractive than say, the Serie A which is more tactical and thus less entertaining to watch. The variety in play of the different Premier League teams also makes for attractive viewing as Arsenal’s breathtaking passing style contrasts with Bolton’s gutsy style as well as Manchester United’s pacy and sleek counter attacking approach.

The Fans

The average English fan is extra- passionate about the game and would show it in his singing on and off the stands. He has a song for his team, the players, and some for each opposing team and player. He wears his club’s colors proudly (I am not saying that other leagues don’t. But in England it is different!), and his entire family is clad in it.

In England the stands are fuller than anywhere else in Europe, even with the exorbitant ticket prices.

Television Coverage

Television coverage is detailed, with cameras covering the action from as many as 20 angles in some cases. The players are shown up-close, and their reactions, emotions as well as that of the fans are well captured for the viewer. I have seen rabbits run across the pitch at half time, and cameras follow it with interest.

Figures show that in the U.S many fans religiously get up each weekend at 4:30am PT to watch the early kick-off.

Marketing

The Premiership is well marketed, and it is common place to hear commentators describe it as “the best football league in the world” When a product is that described it sticks in the mind and is soon believed.

With the variety of stars in the Premiership from all over the world it also naturally draws followership from fans who want to follow the progress of their countrymen or favourites.

Success

In the past 5 years, England has presented more clubs in the final stages of the European Champions League than any other European country, with Manchester United and Chelsea playing the final in Moscow in 2008. This followed Liverpool’s victory in 2005 against AC Milan.

It is difficult to detach one from the English Premier League after these facts.

Alfred Biosah

www.soccerxtra.net