Conceptual Metaphors In Peter Drury’s Football Commentaries: A Cognitive-Semantic Analysis

Abstract

This study looks at metaphors in Peter Drury’s football commentaries paying close attention to types of metaphor how source domains are matched to target domains and how these metaphors shape the story of the match. Using a descriptive design and cognitive‑semantic analysis this study examines transcribed commentary from three match broadcasts: the first and second legs of AS Roma versus Barcelona in the 2018 UEFA Champions League and the 2022 FIFA World Cup Final between Argentina and France. Metaphorical expressions were found using a four‑step process taken from MIPVU: analyzing meaning in context checking the Oxford Dictionary for meaning spotting semantic contrast and classifying with Conceptual Metaphor Theory. The appendix inventory lists 25 expressions. Structural metaphors appear often while ontological and orientational metaphors offer other ways to frame match events. The analysis shows that Drury maps football actions onto domains like driving, warfare, performance, fire, economic value, myth and spatial movement. These mappings convey control, vulnerability, skill, opportunity, historical significance and changes in competitive status. The findings suggest that metaphor is not just decorative in commentary; it organizes fast‑moving events into a clear and emotionally engaging story turning athletic competition into a drama of conflict, recovery, destiny and achievement.