The greatest misconception with Sky Sports Fanzone is that the two commentators are actually seated at the ground in the style of Martin Tyler and Andy Gray. Sheepskin coats pulled up high and a flask of hot tea at the feet. The truth is that it’s much more comfortable than that!
Hidden away on the A4 into
For an evening kick off the two opposing fans are expected to arrive at the studio for
Everyone signs in at the security gatehouse and this can be good for meeting celebrities. For example last season I met Alan Shearer and rugby league’s Robbie Paul. I was amazed at how small he was I didn’t tell him that though! After dropping off coats and a check of the latest news on the game it is off to the Sky canteen for dinner and friendly banter. The food available ranges from the incomprehensible and inedible fancy dishes like lobster claws marinated in garlic and turtle shells to good old-fashioned pie and chips. The producer takes advantage of the silence during eating to remind the commentators of the do’s and don’ts. You would be surprised at how many complaints they receive regarding comments that appear innocuous but somehow manage to offend.
The match itself is viewed in a small booth with just enough room for the two combatants and the producer. The two fans watch the action on an enormous television screen and get the same view as those sitting at home. The headphones are capable of having the sound of the crowd in one ear and the inane ranting of the other commentator in the other. I normally turn one up and one down! Half time provides an opportunity for feedback from the producer and a scan of the email correspondence.
At the end of the match, which passes very quickly, there is just time to collect a videotape of the game before being escorted to the mode of transport home.
To anyone thinking about applying for Fanzone just send an email to the address that scrolls across the bottom of the screen. Be prepared to talk constantly during the match as any periods of silence are frowned upon. And hope you manage to get a game like Villa away. It makes the trip home go much quicker and it keeps you smiling for months and months!
Article reproduced with kind permission of the BCFC official matchday programme.