http://www.writewords.org.uk/archive/17653.asp?rr=1
There’s been much debate recently about the problems of
‘simulation’. This sanitised term, applied by the games authorities
can’t hide what it actually is, cheating. Diving, feigning injury,
trying to gain an advantage by getting an opposing player sent off
is, and lets get this clear not ‘ just part of the modern game’ it is
out and out deception and it’s an element which is turning myself
and a growing number of my contemporaries away from the
game.
While the actions of players throwing themselves to the ground
after less contact than you get from a granny with her shopping in
M&S is nauseating enough, it’s what happens in the aftermath of
the ‘foul’ that beggars belief. They writhe and convulse in a
manner that suggests they don’t need a trainer but an entire
trauma team. If the Health Secretary want’s to reduce NHS
waiting lists she might consider employing some of the
Premiership’s trainers and physios bearing in mind the way these
gifted healers have our stricken heroes back on their feet within
minutes.
This is not a rant about obscenely paid prima donnas, arguably,
the salaries being paid have to be seen in the context of the
entertainment industry and that’s another argument altogether.
The issue I’m trying to raise here is why does it seem to be only a
growing number of footballers who indulge in this ludicrous
practise. In these days of mass media coverage do they really
think they can get away with it and escape the subsequent
criticism. Or, more to the point do they hold the game and the
fans in such contempt that they don’t really care as long as they
achieve their objectives, an unfair advantage and the win bonus.
No one doubts that getting hammered in a tackle by someone the
size of John Terry can hurt but why does it seem to be only
footballers who resort to these amateur dramatics.
This was perfectly illustrated to me last year when I watched the
All Scotland Shinty final between Fort William and Kingussie. I
have to be honest I’ve never really paid the game much attention
before but I watched fascinated, not only at the skill and
athleticism but also at the seemingly superhuman capacity of these
two teams to absorb pain. It didn’t seem to matter whether it was
stick, opponent or ball that hit them, not once did they resort to
the absurd behaviour which now seems so prevalent in top class
football. The trainer did at times have to enter the field of play,
mainly for blood injuries and also for when one of the goalkeepers
was stunned by the ball but the injuries and the resulting treatment
were dispatched with a minimum of fuss.
by absolutely_fabregas » Sat Jul 28, 2007 6:15 pm 
