ACROSS the wide spectrum of TV sports coveage, the programmes and that stand out and gain the biggest audience are those that present expert analysis or offer a difference of opinion among the panellists, a bit of conflict to get the temperature rising and create debate. Think Giles/Dunphy, Hook/Pope, Keane/anyone. The Saint and Greavsie? (Too old?)

The introduction of A.P. McCoy was expected add an extra element to Channel 4’s racing coverage but after his initial outing last week the jury is out.

The Channel 4 team have received plenty of criticism amid falling viewing figures and complaints that the programme is too bland. Often a case of too many cooks and a diluted broth. Those who held strong opinions, Francome, McCririck are badly missed, or so we are led to believe.

On the basis of last week’s offering, not much has yet changed in adding any extra bite to the analysis team through the champion jockey. Indeed, it’s in danger of all being a bit too chummy.

Jim McGrath still comes across as unbiased professional, offering a strong opinion if called upon. Of the others, it’s just often too much of all friends together. By the end of the broadcast slagging A.P.’s new tweedy waist coat is not why viewers are going to tune in.

By contrast, Matt Chapman on At The Races continues to be the man of the people and like him or his style, he plays the antagonist with ease. There will always be a difference of opinion here, something to raise a debate. Taking on handicapper Phil Smith, just for the fun of it. And the top names, Rich Ricci, Andy Stewart are willing to talk to him on the On The Line afternoon show. The attraction is that he is demonstrably passionate about the sport, even if you do not agree with his opinions, it never fails to come through.

McCoy also needs to learn not to show the self depreciating style that made for compelling viewing in Being AP. If you tip six losers, don’t draw attention to it. We all have bad days.

You’ll not see the number of beaten horses tipped by Pricewise mentioned anywhere.

By contrast, RTE’s racing coverage has also by times received criticism for having too much of the same old faces. However, broadcasting through the windy conditions from Fairyhouse last weekend, the whole programme had a much more down to earth look about it.

Down in the elements paddock-side, Robert Hall had to abandon a fruitless struggle with an umbrella. If jockeys, horses and camera men brave the elements why not presenter too. Forget the Channel 4 booth. The RTE production just had a great deal more authenticity.

Ted’s never going to toe the party line, even bringing Ruby alongside was not going to guarantee agreement, indeed it provoked the opposite.

For the moment, there’s more than A.P. needed to bring a bit of spice to Channel 4 racing.