important games of the year because ZFB messed up its TV coverage.

Followers of the English game were looking forward to a dramatic kick-off to the season -- the Charity Shield clash between Manchester United and Arsenal.

But when they tuned in at 10 a.m. on Saturday, when the exclusive live broadcast was due to start, they found the game was almost over and they had missed two goals.

And as the match went into a tense play-off, decided by penalty kicks, a blackout meant viewers could not see the crucial goal that gave Man Utd victory.

One soccer fan said: "It's the game played between the FA Cup winners and the Premier League winners, and I was looking forward to it all week.

"I turned the TV on at 10 a.m. and the game had almost finished. They only showed the last 20 minutes.

"The game was a 1-1 draw, but neither goal was shown. Penalties were taken and it went to 4-4, but then the picture went with only the commentary left, missing the climax.

"It was a 12.30 p.m. kick-off in England, which is 8.30 a.m. here. "But the broadcast started at 10 a.m. They must have thought it was a 2 p.m. kick-off over there.

"No wonder people get cable and satellite TV. They aren't brilliant but they're 100 percent better than local sports coverage.'' Manchester United fan Mr. Andrew Wilkinson added: "It's the opening game of the season and usually sets the scene for the rest of the year.

"I'm a regular visitor to the Robin Hood pub on Saturdays for the live English soccer. Thank goodness ZFB don't get those games exclusive.

"It's difficult enough getting news of English soccer and United over here. I was very disappointed.

"It was supposed to be quite a historic occasion but I feel cheated. And it was my birthday.'' A Bermuda Broadcasting spokesman was unavailable for comment.

A Charity Shield match report is on page 21.