Given that the present continuous is used for something happening now, e.g. "I am eating", and the present simple is used for general facts, e,g. "Lions eat meat", why does sports commentary do the opposite?

For example, "Smith passes to Jones" = present simple, but is used for something that is happening now;
"Smith is having success down the left wing" = present continuous, but used for a general fact;

Explanation or justification anyone?