'The worst conditions in my 35-year career' - commentating in the FA Cup fog

What the report says

BBC Sport reported that thick fog turned Altrincham’s FA Cup first-round tie against Notts County into an unusual challenge for everyone involved, including commentator Steve Bower. The match at Moss Lane was shown live on BBC Two, but visibility became so poor that Bower said it was among the most difficult games he has covered in roughly 35 years in broadcasting.

According to BBC Sport, the fog worsened as the game went on and made it hard to follow the action beyond the centre circle. Bower said the commentary team could no longer reliably identify which team had possession, while radio staff and those in the press box also struggled to see players, officials and even the far side of the pitch. The article said the conditions were so severe that the match was close to being abandoned.

On the field, National League side Altrincham led 2-1 and were close to causing an upset before Callum Roberts equalised late for Notts County. The League One club then won on penalties after extra time. BBC Sport said the fog changed the way the game was played, with teams forced into shorter passes and tactical analysis becoming difficult in real time.

The piece also noted that fans and commentators had to rely heavily on crowd reaction and replay footage, giving the tie an unusual atmosphere that participants described as unforgettable.