The old expression "you had to have been there" in order to have experienced a tumultuous game of football is an extremely hackneyed usage of the English language and a classic example of lazy journalism, which as you know is something we give short shrift to at the Org.
However in the case of Hammers 'famous' victory over serial Europa League Cup winners Sevilla, you would HAVE to have really been there in order to know the game felt judging by the lack of column inches the match received! Everton's victory over Newcastle was deemed far more important than Hammers reaching the 1/4 finals of the Europa League and in the course of doing so managed to knock out the competitions favourites.
Perhaps it is 'Murky Murdoch' trying to muddy the waters because BT Sport have got ALL the European Cup competitions' action, after all News International and Sky are a multi headed beast so it is quite likely that Hammers have become persona(s) non grata with a large section of the media, especially since they burned their bridges during 'Kitty Gate'.
Even the BT commentators, including a scouser? Were hardly gushing in their enthusiasm, preferring to point out how under strength the visitors to the Stratford Stadium were, as opposed to how GOOD David Moyes' team were. They would have criticised the atmosphere if they could have got away with it, and if the noise hadn't been deafening!
At least the Press gave Leeds a good review for their 3-2 victory over Hammers top six spot competitors Wolves, now when was the last time Leeds came from behind away from home to eventually win 3-2? - LN
