A petition calling for a review of unfair media bias may be widened, with new parameters to include ownership laws, integrity and ‘Uppin’ the Riff’.
The call comes following Phil Gould’s impassioned display throughout Penrith’s preliminary final triumph over Souths, with claims the legendary analyst met his prerequisites for impartiality by remaining impartially 100 per cent behind the Panthers.
As the Mountain Men scraped to their first grand final since 2003, viewers were pointing out Gould’s uncanny similarities in the broadcast to other iconic calls, such as Norman May in the Olympics and Phil Gould in Origin.
Swinging between insightful analysis and anxious barracking, debate raged whether the former general manager still considered himself within the inner sanctum at Penrith or if he just really, really, really loves the Panthers and/or his old parking permit.
Nevertheless, with Channel Nine holding exclusive rights to the decider, concerns are growing the broadcast could spiral into Penrith’s own version of Fox News, only with more screaming and Grecian 2000.
Sunday’s clash is shaping as one of most anticipated match-ups in recent times, with interest set to grow to record proportions unless the Daily Telegraph leak the result beforehand.
The tale of the tape reveals both sides staking serious claims for the title, with Penrith brimming with confidence on the back of a 17-match winning streak, while the Storm are two years overdue.
Jahrome Hughes (Photo by Matt King/Getty Images)
But Gould’s role looms as an awkward decision for Nine unless network bosses can somehow channel his unending energy for the club into something more palatable, such as promos for The Block.
Alternatively, the decision could be taken out of the broadcaster’s hands should the government plausibly complete a royal commission about footy barracking some time before kick-off.
For those unaware, former prime minister Kevin Rudd has released a petition calling for a review into media saturation in Australia, claiming mass bias has reached the dramatic levels only seen by communist domiciles or Paul Vautin.
Rudd says he is acting on behalf of a groundswell of condemnation towards the Rupert Murdoch media empire, with the magnate alleged of holding unfair sway over Australia’s democracy with his barely concealed political leanings and Mad Monday ambushes.
But despite the obvious similarities, the link between Gould and Murdoch has been described as apples and oranges. While the Fox Corporation chairman may have piloted targeted campaigns through his multiple platforms that have influenced elections and shaped policy for decades to come, Gould’s influence is much greater.
For comparison, Murdoch owns 70 per cent of the print media in Australia, while Gould has 100% Footy. Additionally, the commentator enjoys imposing reach through television, radio, podcasts and a newspaper column, not to mention a highly entertaining Twitter feed and numerous feuds.
The Gould conundrum further adds to his already imposing shadow over this grand final, with opinion split on his level of influence in blooding the new breed of Panthers.
Nathan Cleary (Photo by Jason McCawley/Getty Images)
This sees many fans lauding his tenure for the unrivalled pathways he created for nurturing local talent, whereas others bemoan his decision to ship these juniors to the Titans on full pay.
Others point out that Ivan Cleary has soared since Gould left, with the commentator’s departure finally allowing the coach the freedom to sack and hire himself as he sees fit.
Despite being outsiders with bookies, Penrith will enter the match as sentimental favourites. This is despite a large number of fans declaring they would like to see the greatest player of all time retire with a win despite no chance of Isaah Yeo retiring whatsoever.
william edward
Guest
But having watched Fox all season and having to endure Nine commentary tonight, I will sign it immediately though to be fair he thought the Penrith obstruction try was badly incorrect so he at least understands the rule - I would love to see Annerley explain that one.
Cyril Snodgrass III
Guest
Kayo coverage of games is much better than the 9 version with Gould. will be watching the telecast of the GF with Gould muted
DP Schaefer
Roar Rookie
I keep wondering why Sterlo isn't on more.
Tom
Guest
But then you might have to deal with Dr. Braith Anasta (PhD, University of Life)
stanc
Roar Rookie
Buy a digital radio. It is a split-second ahead of Fox502 digital; and like you I do the same but the FatMan is a bit of a worry with his not so relevant comment. He's lived in Sin City for so long now he hardly remembers Northern Brisbane his ancestral home. Happy listening!!
no one in particular
Roar Guru
if you have a digital radio it should put you in sync with the TV
JAMES G HASLAM
Guest
I think the debate should be about whether Ivan Cleary could effectively coach Penrith with Phil Gould looking over his shoulder. Not a slur on Gould at all with what he has accomplished, but can a coach function at his best with someone like a Gould having all that power. My guess is it could have worked if Cleary had brought Gould in.
Dwanye
Roar Rookie
I bought myself a delay radio years ago of the net. Had enough of nines cricket buddies one summer, used it now for forty also
stanc
Roar Rookie
"no one in particular". I agree entirely with your assessment but would add old Blocker [cheap-shot] Roach besides struggling with English has such a squeaky voice that quickly irritates and struggles to put two words together. I'm forced to turn sound OFF and listen to ABC Grandstand on my digital radio which is slightly ahead of Fox's action - But alas they start mentioning where people, in the world, are listening to their broadcast, however it's better than that collection of yokels. However they are very slightly ahead of Rabs, Gussie, the 8th immortal druggie Joey and classmate of cheap-shots Freddie who didn't graduate English, at all.
Kman
Roar Rookie
This is just hilarious Dane! Pitch perfect and perhaps close to the bone :laughing:
Mango Jack
Roar Guru
Just read in the Tele that Storm edged out the Panthers 20-18, courtesy of a Josh Ado-Carr try from a Cam Smith forward pass. Damn!
Tony
Roar Guru
Does he wear lipstick?
SourD
Roar Rookie
Melbourne-based Bulldogs fan here. I'll be one of the few neutrals cheering for the Storm on Sunday. Not even because i'm in Melb, but just that they're a great team to watch. Plus i have my own reasons for not jumping on the Penrith as underdogs bandwagon. The anti-Storm sentiment is ridiculous.
Cameron Warner
Roar Rookie
What’s that old saying about lipstick on a pig :laughing:
Big Daddy
Guest
You got that right. They're so loud. Even the guy that calls the races in Sydney. What are they on.
Tim Buck 3
Roar Rookie
I haven't noticed Greg Alexander being anti Melbourne but it's okay if he is as Melbourne are performing well above their salary sombrero. Melbourne have been given plenty of help as they are flying Rugby League's flag in the home of Australian Football and they need to attract local support to get juniors to play. Aren't Melbourne Brisbane's 2nd team?
Eelsalmighty
Roar Rookie
Everything Gus says is right, and if you want a second opinion just ask him again.
Tony
Roar Guru
Whatever their doing isn't working
Tony
Roar Guru
:happy:
Cameron Warner
Roar Rookie
Had a good chuckle at this Phil Gould’s makeup person doesn’t get paid enough