For a show billed as the Super Bowl of action sports, the third day of the LG Action Sports World Championships fell far short of an epic and wildly popular event. Hoobastank’s closing performance was unfortunately restrained.

The disappointing concert should not be blamed entirely on the band. Hoobastank put on a show that was as entertaining as they could make it, at least under the circumstances.

The blame instead lies with whomever implemented an inexcusably awkward set up. With the Key Arena floor divided between a three-sectioned street course and a colossal half-pipe, and with the upper bowl area curtained off, fans were constrained to a few sections of the arena’s lower bowl. Concertgoers were not allowed on what floor space was available, making the base look nearly empty. Sadly, most activity on the floor came from event staff dismantling the two courses. Lead singer Doug Robb summed up the uncomfortable configuration jokingly before the closing song.

“We’ll be back soon, in a setting that isn’t 50 yards away from you.”

Hoobastank gave the impression of a group that, while passable in an arena setting, seemed better suited to a smaller venue. Opening with a decent rendition of their first hit single, “Crawling in the Dark,” the band played a simple and straightforward set. While the concert started out slow, the group seemed to grow more comfortable with the setting as the night wore on and ended with several surprisingly enjoyable and engaging, pieces. The band also played three songs from its upcoming album Fornever, including the first single to be released, “My Turn.”

Robb constantly thanked the crowd for sticking around to see the show, and said if he were in their position, he would probably have left after the extreme sports awards. Unfortunately, an already sparse audience began to trickle out after the awards ceremony, leaving only a sprinkling of attendees for the show. The band responded positively to the low turnout and showed a carefree and upbeat attitude throughout the concert.

“I am actually smiling and having a good time playing for you guys,” Robb said. “Thanks for sticking around — without you this would have been a glorified rehearsal.”

The lead singer said those who stayed for the concert would be in an upcoming video covering the championships. Robb playfully said the show would probably have to be doctored to make the arena look filled, and there would be “digital people and animals everywhere.”

The high point of the show came near the end, with the band’s presentation of its 2004 No. 1 single “The Reason.” Slowing down the act with a raw sound and heartfelt performance by Robb, the piece almost made concertgoers forget the night’s various faults.

Reach reporter Julian Martin at arts@dailyuw.com.