Originally Posted by Jason C:
“This whole issue touches an aspect of the BBC/BT FA Cup broadcasting arrangement I've found slightly questionable, namely the balance of power between the broadcasters asking for high levels of access and the non-league clubs having the ability to accept or decline them as they see fit.”
Yes, although of course last season we had FC United complaining about being chosen to be on television, and then Eastleigh complaining when they weren't chosen to be on television. So the broadcasters can't win whatever they do.
You don't want to say the broadcasters have paid the money so the clubs can lump it, but of course they're not covering it out of the goodness of their hearts, they want something in return. I enjoy the BT Conference coverage because of the access-all-areas approach, and I think it can be hugely valuable. The other week when BT were at Solihull Moors, it felt like it was the biggest day in their history and they were able to showcase themselves to the nation. That's far more appealing to the audience than just treating it as any other match, and I think more valuable in promoting the clubs.
Originally Posted by The Scout:
“What were the circumstances of this though? I found a clip of it on Twitter but it wasn't a live game so was it shown as part of Final Score or something? If so, it was probably more in line with when it was convenient for the broadcaster to approach him as part of their schedule as opposed to waiting for a convenient moment like a break in play as they would've looked to do if it was a live game. This wouldn't have helped matters.”
It was indeed during Final Score, one of the nine matches they were dipping in and out of during the afternoon. But I can't imagine Westley wouldn't be aware of Clemmit and his role, this approach goes back nearly a decade with Setanta in 2007 and it seems popular among those involved and Clemmit is respected in the game. Also as well I'm sure Westley will know, at that level, managing is often just as much a PR job as a coaching one, you do have to represent the club all over the place.
One other point, mind, is that I'm almost always going to side with Clemmit in this scenario because I don't really like Graham Westley that much.