U.S.-England Game Draws Impressive 7.3 Rating

Saturday’s highly anticipated match between the U.S. and England may have ended up a 1-1 draw on the pitch, but ABC/ESPN execs are likely to consider it a win after it becomes the most-viewed first-round FIFA World Cup game ever in America. The 7.3 fast-national rating makes it the fifth most-watched World Cup telecast ever in the country. Reviews of the coverage are mostly positive, with the experienced announcer stable garnering solid marks. The net is also being lauded for its decision to eliminate the ticker on the bottom of the screen during game action. Meanwhile, fans in the U.K. are still livid over ITV’s HD feed inadvertently going to commercial and missing England’s only goal during the match.

Good Seats Still Available?
Stands at some World Cup venues noticeably empty on opening weekend; security measures at stadiums described as "relaxed."

Sound Decision
Vuvuzelas to remain at World Cup despite complaints about "never-ending buzz."

Boston Legal
ABC earns 12.8 overnight rating for Game Five as Celtics push Lakers to the edge.

Austin's Powers  
Conflicting reports have Texas headed for Pac-10, staying put due to upped TV revenues.

Brightest In The Galaxy
Bidding for Stars down to two after group featuring Mike Modano drops out of contention.

Higher Ground
Hicks Sports Group counsel informed MLB of higher Rangers offer than Greenberg's.

Lineup Shuffle
MLB strips Jimmie Lee Solomon of umpiring oversight, to be replaced by Frank Robinson.

Walking In Memphis
Golfers wear ribbons to build awareness of St. Jude Classic's need for new title sponsor.