John Helm: Benson makes an early exit
John Helm: Benson makes an early exit
IT WAS sad to read of cricket umpire Mark Benson’s hasty retirement from the international stage.
Whatever the reason, and the most popular theory appears to be a lack of willingness on his part to be continually subjected to players moans, it is another nail in the coffin of democratic decision-making.
Football referees Mike Riley and Rob Styles walked prematurely away from roles they were finding increasingly uncomfortable with, and that in itself is an indictment on the very word sport.
IT MAY have escaped your notice but the biggest football match being played anywhere in the world today is Al Ahli versus Auckland City.
That is according to FIFA.
Of course, others may consider Dynamo Kiev v Barcelona of greater importance, some would plump for Barnsley v Scunthorpe United, a few would even put Millwall’s FA Cup replay against Staines Town top of the bill.
Of all FIFA’s brands the Club World Cup is probably the lowest ranking in terms of popularity, yet the final which takes place in Abu Dhabi on December 19 is already a sell-out.
The middle east obsession with attracting top-level sport has been recognised by the transfer of this global event to the United Arab Emirates from Japan, though it is hard to imagine the fascination over a match say between TP Mazembe of the Democratic Republic of Congo and Pohang Steelers of Korea. That’s Friday’s offering if you’re looking for a ticket.
Abu Dhabi won the right to stage the Club World Cup for the next two years partly due to a guarantee of £3m towards grassroots football.
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