‘The worst conditions in my 35-year career’ – commentating in the FA Cup fog

Thick fog made the FA Cup tie between Altrincham and Notts County almost impossible to follow from the commentary positions, with BBC commentator Steve Bower saying it was the worst conditions he had experienced in his 35-year career. The match continued despite the poor visibility, turning a promising contest into a difficult spectacle for players, managers and broadcasters.

Altrincham, a National League side, led 2-1 against League One visitors Notts County before Callum Roberts’ late equaliser sent the match to extra time; County then won on penalties. From around the 60th minute, commentators struggled to identify which team or player had the ball, while managers said they could not assess tactical changes. Players reportedly could not see both goals or the corner flags from the centre circle, and the match came close to being abandoned.