Indeed, he is.
When only requesting speed xxx, the pitch would command the new speed but your FMA will still display TOGA as pitch command. Very confusing. Try it sometime!
By requesting the LVLCHG the FMA will display the SPD mode. Very appropriate at that stage.
VNAV what the hell is VNAV
(I fly the classics 300/500)
BUT why do u guys hit the N1 button at 1000´? No acceleration at 1500´ for u guys down under?