The oracle text changes the original functionality of the card in important ways. Removing creatures from combat is something that happens often enough in the game, such as regeneration, or changing controllers during the combat step, that leaving that wording on the card would better represent the original intent of the card. Also, adding the word target changes other interactions unnecessarily.
This text would better represent the original function of the card:
2,(T): Choose an attacking creature you control. Untap it and remove it from combat.
Posted By:
zaphod
(11/21/2010 8:52:58 AM)
What's so bad about this? this plus taunting elf = win. Pummel your opponent with as many creatures as you want over and over.
Posted By:
mynameis832
(3/13/2012 3:32:58 PM)
Still unplayable.
Posted By:
GainsBanding
(2/1/2011 4:54:54 AM)
So it's like Reconnaissance? Except it costs 2 more. And it costs 2 to use the ability. And you can only do it once barring voltaic key shenanigans. And it's actually worse under the current oracle text because Dispense Justice still 
s your day.
...Yeah...
(Granted this came before recon, but still jesus).
Posted By:
RPJesus
(11/7/2011 5:10:31 PM)
Worse than Reconnaissance usually, but can be played in any color...
Posted By:
Arachnos
(4/10/2013 9:54:36 PM)