Football Sports

Legendary commentator John Motson dies aged 77

The former broadcaster worked for 50 years at the BBC, commentating on 10 World Cups with one of the most recognisable voices in the sport.

His most iconic commentary came in 1972, when Hereford United striker Ronnie Radford scored his iconic winner against Newcastle United.

Motson believed that if the goal never happened he would never have been a commentator.

His iconic words were; ‘Oh what a goal! Radford the scorer. Ronnie Radford! And the crowd are on the pitch. What a tremendous shot by Ronnie Radford.’

Motson commentated on the 1977 FA Cup Final, as a late replacement for David Coleman, delivering another iconic line when Manchester United captain Martin Buchan, walked up the stairs to receive the trophy; ‘How fitting that a man called Buchan should be the first to climb the 39 steps.’ (A reference to the novel ‘The 39 Steps’).

Motson also found himself commentating on the 1989 Hillsborough disaster, rather than a football match. He appeared as a witness during the later inquiry.

Motson retired form live commentary in 2008, but continued to work for Match of The Day. His final match was a 2-0 win for Crystal Palace against West Bromwich Albion at Selhurst Park in 2018.

He was also famed for wearing an iconic outfit on matchdays, big glasses and a sheepskin coat, replicated by many fans up and down the country.

He leaves behind a legacy of an iconic commentary style and charm, that many commentators have tried to replicate.

One of the games’ greatest voices.

John Motson, 1945-2023.

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