BlueSquare adds a social element to in-play action
News on 29 Nov 2011
News on 29 Nov 2011
UK online sports betting firm Bluesquare says Wednesday’s Blue Square Bet Premier fixture between Wrexham and Darlington football teams will break new ground as it introduces the novel marketing idea of a fully interactive televised football match with social media messages discussed live on air.
By interacting through social media such as tweets, Facebook or email, fans will be able to enhance the in-play experience by discussing events in the game live on Sky Channel 433 with Bluesquare expert presenters Steve Bower and Ian Snodin, who will discuss and respond to the social media musings they receive while the action is unfolding.
The company claims it will be a first for British broadcasting, with spectators contacting the program using the following addresses:
Twitter: @steveandsnods
Facebook: http://Facebook.com/premiersports
Email: steveandsnods@premiersports.tv
“We want fans, players, managers – anyone who has an opinion – to get in touch with us during the match. I’ve told Snods [Ian Snodin] it will be just like watching the match in the pub because everybody will be able to join in the debate. Only we won’t be drinking!” said Premier Sports anchor commentator Steve Bower.
“This has never been done before and will give the viewers the chance to really be a part of the show,” said Premier Sports’ Richard Webb. “By using the technology available, fans can help to drive the show. You can send a message at any time but what we really want to push is interaction during the live matches.”
The fully interactive live football match is the latest innovation to hit the Blue Square Bet Premier. The pioneering division was also the first to feature interviews with managers during games from the technical area and to relay the latest live odds from a bookmaker while the match was being played.
Blue Square Bet spokesman Alan Alger added: “We’re used to seeing history being made in the Blue Square Bet Premier and I’m sure the latest innovation will be a hit with fans. Commentators are never short of words and now viewers will be able to have their own say during a match too.”
