A Sign Of The Times...

The World Cup qualifier against Ukraine on Saturday will NOT be shown on television.

It has been revealed that for the first time in the history of football a qualifying match will not be shown on television, instead viewers will be able to pay in advance to watch it online for £4.99 on Wednesday with the price going up to £10.99 Thursday and Friday and £11.99 if you leave it until Saturday. The rights to broadcast the game were originally held by Setanta (deceased) - poor Angus! But have been sold to a company called Perform.

Of course it would be unfair to assume that every football fan can use a computer, which is probably why the game will also be shown at 11 Odeons across the country. It is unclear how this decision will be received by fans but I can't help thinking there is going to be bad feedback. When I think about watching football... I think of gathering round the television with family to support my team or country or going to the pub to watch with mates. Neither of these traditional scenes will be possible.

It does appear to reflect a shift in the way society consumes their media. Today it would be fair to say most teenagers and young adults are familiar with such internet players such as 4od (4 on demand) and bbc iplayer but such a popular event such as a world cup match is going to reach out to people of all ages and in every demographic. I could see it easing the more mature generation into the 21st century.

Maybe we'll come across some golden bloggers!