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Rugby Weekly Extra

581 episodes — Page 7 of 12

Leinster's depth, Munster's injuries, Friend to the Reds?

Eoin Toolan and Murray Kinsella discuss the two URC semi-finals, with an injury-hit Munster heading to Dublin to take on Leinster as Connacht visit the Stormers in Cape Town. The lads discuss how Leinster manage their big squad, Munster's challenge this weekend, the fine job Andy Friend has done in Connacht, and also the strengthening of the relationship between Kiwi and Japanese rugby. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

May 10, 202335 min

Leinster v Munster, Connacht's quality, what next for Ulster?

Bernard Jackman and Murray Kinsella break down the URC quarter-finals, where Connacht downed Ulster, Leinster overcome the Sharks, and Munster beat Glasgow. That all tees up another Leinster v Munster semi-final, but Berch reckons it could be different this time. Do Connacht have a chance in South Africa against the Stormers? The lads also discuss Terenure's brilliant AIL success, both on and off the pitch. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

May 8, 202352 min

The remarkable rise of JGP, who wins the final, and URC play-off preview

We're at full complement for a special-edition Wednesday pod, as Eoin Toolan, Bernard Jackman and Murray Kinsella join Gavan Casey to assess Leinster's Champions Cup semi-final victory over Toulouse, La Rochelle's steamrolling of Exeter, and what the latest chapter in the finalists' great rivalry might look like. The lads give their thoughts on Toulouse's gripes over the officiating of their semi-final, the decision to move Antoine Dupont to 10, and some brilliant Leinster performances by the likes of Jamison Gibson-Park, Jack Conan, Ross Byrne and Charlie Ngatai.Murray, Eoin and Bernard also look ahead to, and give their predictions for, the URC quarter-finals this weekend.Plus, Ireland suffered their first wooden spoon since 2004 in the Women's Six Nations, and it looks as though head coach Greg McWilliams is set to depart: so what should happen next in Irish women's rugby? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

May 3, 20231h 10m

Gibson-Park shines as Leinster march into another final

Ciarán Kennedy and Murray Kinsella provide instant reaction to Leinster's 41-22 hammering of Toulouse in the Champions Cup semi-final at the Aviva Stadium in Dublin. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Apr 29, 202310 min

Leo cools the hype and Aussie rugby bounces back

Eoin Toolan joins Murray Kinsella to look ahead to Leinster's big challenge against Toulouse in the Champions Cup semi-finals. The lads discuss Leo Cullen's interesting words as he attempted to manage the big expectations.And with Rugby Australia announcing a surplus for the financial year, Eoin outlines how they've managed to turn things around from the brink. There's also time to check in on all things Super Rugby and chat about the new All Blacks coaching ticket. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Apr 26, 202343 min

Ben Healy's departure unfortunate but not a 'mistake', and does hyping young players like Prendergast even matter?

Murray Kinsella, Bernard Jackman and Gavan Casey delve into Round 18 of the URC and how the provinces are shaping up for their respective knockout-rugby runs. The lads discuss how Munster totally subverted their expectations in South Africa, and why the impending departure of the in-form Ben Healy -- who should arguably start at out-half in Munster's quarter-final -- shouldn't be considered a mistake by either party. They look ahead to Leinster's Champions Cup semi-final with Toulouse, and the extent to which Saturday's heavy defeat to the Bulls needs to be examined. Plus: Are we wrong to 'hype' young talents like Sam Prendergast, and is he even really exposed to the hype that so many rugby fans fear? Murray and Berch examine how Connacht have transformed their season -- and the conversations around them -- as they prepare for a trip to Ravenhill in the quarters.Ulster, too, recovered well from a mid-season blip, albeit our analysts remain unconvinced by their recent performances.Plus, Ireland suffered another heavy defeat in the Women's Six Nations which shouldn't be sugarcoated, but there were tangible improvements to their performance which shouldn't be ignored. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Apr 24, 20231h 12m

What it's like to be a professional rugby analyst

On today's pod, Eoin Toolan tells Murray Kinsella about his work with Ireland, the Melbourne Rebels, and Kintetsu Liners. Eoin discusses how he got into rugby analysis, what's involved in the job, and how this area of the game has changed over the years. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Apr 19, 202348 min

Nienaber and Fardy back in Irish rugby, and a very happy URC weekend

Murray and Berch get stuck into a clean sweep for the Irish provinces in the URC, with Munster and Leinster registering impressive wins on the road in South Africa.The lads also discuss Jacques Nienaber signing for Leinster and Scott Fardy being announced as the new Connacht defence coach.And there's discussion of the latest defeat for Ireland Women and whether they should have more experience in their team. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Apr 17, 20231h 4m

Leinster should own their advantages, Toulouse get their dream semi, and URC preview

Murray Kinsella and Bernard Jackman join Gavan Casey to look back on Champions Cup quarter-final weekend and tentatively look ahead to the semi-finals. After analysing a brilliant second-half performance against Leicester, the lads discuss Leinster's socio-economic advantages -- a hot-button topic since Friday -- and whether or not they would be better off acknowledging their existence. Murray and Bernard also delve into Toulouse and La Rochelle's quarter-final victories and look ahead to a massive weekend in the URC for Connacht and Munster. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Apr 11, 202358 min

Eddie's Wallabies, speedy Super Rugby, and Leinster's challenge

Murray and Eoin are joined by former England and Lions lock Geoff Parling, who is now an assistant coach with the Melbourne Rebels.The lads discuss the tactical challenge Leicester will throw at Leinster in the Champions Cup on Friday, with Leo Cullen's men heavy favourites to advance.Geoff also discusses how Super Rugby is looking to speed up the game, as well as how the Fijian Drua are providing a totally new test for teams.And there's a chat about Eddie Jones' first Wallabies squad as the Aussies look to build towards the World Cup. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Apr 5, 202337 min

Leinster rule Irish rugby, Munster must spend, Connacht crash out

Gav, Berch, and Murray discuss what was a tough weekend for everyone in Irish rugby except the magnificent Leinster, who played brilliant wet-weather rugby to beat Ulster.The lads discuss how the other provinces might look to close the gap to Leinster, with Connacht having crashed out of the Challenge Cup against a superb Benetton team.Meanwhile, there was more misery for Irish women's rugby on a weekend when the 15s and 7s both struggled. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Apr 3, 20231h 1m

Leinster and Ulster go again, plus Munster’s opportunity

Ciarán Kennedy and Gavan Casey look ahead to a massive European weekend. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mar 29, 202333 min

Munster's blip, Connacht's class, and Leinster's thriller

Gav is joined by Berch and Murray to discuss a URC play-off race that has become even spicier after wins for Connacht and Ulster, a draw for Leinster, and a chastening home defeat for Munster. The lads try to pick their top eight with two rounds left to go. There's also analysis of Ireland Women's disappointing start to their Six Nations campaign away to Wales, with Bernard pointing out that things could get worse before they improve. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mar 27, 20231h 7m

Irish Rugby's Mount Rushmore, player of the Six Nations, Irish coaches

Eoin Toolan joins Murray to continue basking in the afterglow of Ireland's Grand Slam success, with Eoin providing more detailed analysis of where Andy Farrell's team got it right and where they still need to get better.The lads dig into the mailbag to answer some brilliant questions from members, including the task of picking Ireland's four best players of all time. There's also discussion of the nominees for player of the Six Nations, as well as the pathways for Irish coaches. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mar 22, 202354 min

Two Grand Slams in 24 hours and how Irish rugby can get even better

Bernard Jackman and Murray Kinsella dig into an incredible weekend in Dublin and Cork. They discuss Andy Farrell's impressive leadership of Ireland, how Johnny Sexton has changed, and the players who have stepped up in a big way to help their team towards the Grand Slam. The lads also reflect on the Ireland U20s' back-to-back Slams, talking about how these talented young players need opportunities and what's going on in the pipeline underneath. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mar 20, 20231h 3m

Ireland are Grand Slam champions!

Murray Kinsella and Gavan Casey give their immediate reaction to Ireland's Grand Slam victory against England in the Aviva Stadium. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mar 18, 20236 min

Stephen Jones says this is the best Ireland team ever

The Sunday Times' rugby correspondent, Stephen Jones, joins Eoin Toolan and Murray Kinsella to preview this Saturday's showdown in Dublin. Stephen waxes lyrical about Andy Farrell's Ireland team and declares them the best Irish side ever as he says England would do well to keep their losing margin to less than 20 points this weekend.The lads dig into what went wrong for England against France last weekend, with Eoin delivering cutting analysis on the lack of clarity and execution in the English game. There's also talk of the great Johnny Sexton's last Six Nations game, James Lowe's rise to world-class level and why Farrell's men should be able to seal the Grand Slam.Eoin also looks forward to the other two Six Nations games and hails a huge win for the Fijian Drua in Super Rugby. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mar 15, 202348 min

The unprecedented madness of Murrayfield, Dupont might already be the GOAT, and were Italy complacent?

Murray Kinsella and Bernard Jackman join Gavan Casey to dissect one of the great Irish victories -- and one of the most bizarre games in recent memory. 'Berch' felt the game was lost when both Dan Sheehan and Rónan Kelleher were struck down, so just how did Ireland wind up winning it so convincingly? And how did Scotland manage to pass up such a golden opportunity for a landmark win?Plus: Steve Borthwick's England fell foul of 'The David Clifford of rugby', Antoine Dupont, and one of the best French performances in the Six Nations era. The lads assess both side's markedly different levels of performance and the challenge England will still pose to Ireland in next weekend's Slam decider. And Italy paid the price for thinking they automatically had the beating of Wales, but Berch reckons Warren Gatland's men haven't turned a corner even in avoiding the spoon in Rome. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mar 13, 202359 min

An Irish win right up there with the best of them

Murray Kinsella joins Gavan Casey from Murrayfield to give his thoughts on Ireland's extraordinary win over Scotland which keeps their Grand Slam bid alive. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mar 12, 202312 min

Irish arrogance, Finn's form, and the threats Ireland have to worry about

Scottish journalist and commentator Jamie Lyall joins Eoin Toolan and Murray Kinsella to take a deep dive into the challenge Ireland face on Sunday. The lads discuss Finn Russell's form and his relationship with Scotland boss Gregor Townsend, whose future remains unclear. Eoin and Jamie also outline the dangers that the Scottish attack poses this weekend.There's chat about the doubts surrounding the Scots' mentality, while the panel highlight several other key players in Townsend's side. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mar 8, 202348 min

Savea's gesture, the Scottish threat, and a fitting farewell to Tom Tierney

Gav, Berch, and Murray tee up another huge week for Ireland as they get set to visit Scotland in the Six Nations. How big a threat are Finn Russell and co.?The lads discuss the other two fascinating Six Nations games ahead, as well as giving their views on Ardie Savea's throat-slitting gesture during last weekend's Super Rugby action.Berch speaks about Tom Tierney's funeral and how Munster managed a difficult week, while there is also chat about the other three provinces' URC wins. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mar 6, 20231h 5m

Ireland's defence, the All Blacks job, and Owen Farrell's kicking

Eoin Toolan joins Murray Kinsella to discuss how Ireland will review their win over Italy, with a big focus on the details of the Irish defence. The lads also chat about Andy Farrell's much-boosted selection options for the Scotland game. With the NZR confirming they'll name the next All Blacks coach before this year's World Cup, Eoin analyses whether it's Scott Robertson's job or whether there might be a surprise.Murray and Eoin also touch on Marcus Smith being left out of England's training camp, Owen Farrell's place-kicking, and an injury for Italy star Ange Capuozzo, while they finish the pod with a wrap of the opening round of Super Rugby. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mar 1, 202349 min

Good and bad by Ireland, Scotland's attack, and England go full Borthwick

Murray Kinsella, Bernard Jackman and Gavan Casey pour over a job pretty well done by Ireland in Rome in the circumstances.The lads discuss Ross Byrne's performance at 10, the makeshift midfield and who should start at 13 in the event that Garry Ringrose becomes unavailable again, and the importance of James Lowe to Ireland's attack.Berch also makes a bold call on Scotland's attack, and Murray explains why he was impressed by England in a game that virtually nobody else in the world enjoyed.Plus, the Ireland U20s remain on course for a Grand Slam, while Ulster made a bit of a statement with a fine victory over the Sharks in South Africa. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feb 27, 202356 min

Italy 20-34 Ireland - Reaction live from Rome

Ciarán Kennedy gets Murray Kinsella's live reaction from Rome as Ireland secure another bonus-point win to keep the Grand Slam dream alive. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feb 25, 202312 min

Irish rugby's coaching failings, Super Rugby kick-off, and Six Nations preview

Eoin Toolan joins Gavan Casey for a bumper chat as Ireland prepare for their trip to Rome, Connacht and Leicester Tigers make their head coaching appointments, and the southern hemisphere gears up for Super Rugby season with renewed enthusiasm.Eoin gives his insights into the movers and shakers in OZ -- where Taniela Tupou has left the Reds for Toolan's old club, the Rebels -- and tells us which young players to keep an eye out for this season.Also, his old pal Dan McKellar has been appointed head coach at Leicester: Eoin tells us what Tigers should expect from the ex-Brumbies man.Closer to home, Connacht have named Pete Wilkins as their 'new' head coach, and the lads assess fans' somewhat underwhelmed reaction to the appointment. Eoin also explains why he believes Wilkins' hiring is a step clear of one of Irish rugby's biggest failings: establishing pathways for coaches within the Irish game.The lads also discuss Italy-Ireland, the 'storm in a teacup' that is Scott Penny's call-up to Andy Farrell's squad, and France-Scotland as well as the ongoing Welsh rugby dispute. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feb 22, 202357 min

Berch's insight into Welsh chaos and an all-Leinster Ireland team

Gavan Casey is joined by Bernard Jackman and Murray Kinsella to take a deep dive into the chaos in Welsh rugby. Berch gives detailed insight into the state of play and what needs to happen to sort this mess out.Murray and Bernard pick the players they'd like to see come in for Ireland against Italy, and the lads also discuss a member's interesting question about a hypothetical all-Leinster Irish team.There's also room for a chat about the worrying sounds coming out of Connacht right now, as well as Ulster's latest defeat. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feb 20, 20231h 13m

Lowe's left foot, France's failings, and Super Rugby laws

Eoin Toolan joins Murray Kinsella to discuss the latest Super Rugby law tweaks - yellow card upgrades, reducing TMO interactions, and an interesting one around the scrum. The lads dig into Ireland's performance against France last weekend in the Six Nations, with Eoin outlining the tactical approach that impressed him so much. There's also discussion of the French frustrations after defeat in Dublin.Eoin gives his verdict on England, Wales, Scotland, and Italy, as well as answering an intriguing question about the Englishmen coaching in Ireland. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feb 15, 202353 min

Grand Slam on, Doris bosses, controversial calls, and Finn's Scots

Bernard Jackman and Ciarán Kennedy join Murray Kinsella to dive deep into Ireland's brilliant performance in an incredible Six Nations win over France.The lads discuss how Ireland limited the French threat and their four excellent tries. There's discussion of Caelan Doris' dominant performance and the more unsung contributions from players in green.After Scotland's second win, we ask if they are the real deal. There's also chat about England getting off the mark under Steve Borthwick against Italy, as well as the latest thrilling Ireland U20s win. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feb 13, 20231h 8m

Post-match pod: Grand Slam dream is still alive after French win

Murray Kinsella and Gavan Casey live from the Aviva Stadium in the aftermath of Ireland's brilliant win over France in the Six Nations, as they add to their unbeaten record at home. The Grand Slam is still on! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feb 11, 202315 min

Ireland v France live preview show with Sean O'Brien

In this special live podcast, Sean O'Brien joined Gav, Murray and Berch in Tullow RFC, for a truly compelling chat across a number of topics, which includes how Ireland must approach the French challenge and Sean's coaching career with club and province.Sean speaks openly about what drove him to confound the many doubters who said he would never have a career in professional rugby. He explains how social media and smartphones have led to inhibited players who are slow to express themselves, and emphasises the value of honest, forthright communication between teammates. The former Lion and Six Nations winner also tells us how his love of farming sometimes got in the way of his rugby career, leading to some amusing exchanges with Joe Schmidt. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feb 10, 20231h 47m

The view from France and how Ireland can beat les Bleus

Murray Kinsella and Eoin Toolan are joined by Paris-based journalist Illtud Dafydd, who gives us the inside view on how France are shaping up for Saturday's showdown with Ireland. Illtud discusses injuries in the French squad, their brilliant 9-10 combination, and how Andy Farrell's team are viewed in France.Eoin breaks down the key tactical, physical and mental challenges ahead of this massive Six Nations clash, as well as discussing the losses of Tadhg Furlong and Jamison Gibson-Park.The lads also touch on the other two Six Nations games this weekend, with Scotland hosting Wales and Italy visiting England. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feb 8, 202350 min

Ireland silence Cardiff, Italy scare France, Scotland shred England

Gav, Berch, and Murray discuss a thrilling opening weekend in the Six Nations. Ireland racked up a bonus-point win over Wales despite a wobble in the second half, while Italy pushed France all the way in Rome. The lads discuss what it all means ahead of _les Bleus' _visit to Dublin on Saturday.They also chat about Scotland's latest Calcutta Cup success against an England team who still have plenty of worries despite the change in coaching. Finally, there's time for discussion of the Ireland U20s' win in Wales, where Sam Prendergast caught the eye. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feb 6, 20231h 14m

Ireland mostly impress in bonus-point win over Wales

Murray Kinsella joins Gavan Casey on the line from the Principality Stadium to give his immediate reaction to a 34-10 victory for Andy Farrell's men. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feb 4, 202314 min

Scandal in Welsh Rugby and Gatland's selection for Ireland clash

Eoin Toolan and Murray Kinsella are joined by Steffan Thomas, the rugby correspondent for Wales Online, to discuss why the Welsh Rugby Union has been accused of having a 'toxic culture' amid allegations of sexism and racism. The lads then break down Warren Gatland's team selection for Wales' Six Nations opener against Ireland this weekend. There are more than a few veteran players but also a sprinkling of exciting young guns. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feb 1, 202345 min

Beware the Gats bounce, how to beat France, and who will win the Six Nations?

Portugal-bound Murray Kinsella and former Ireland hooker Bernard Jackman join Gavan Casey for a big Six Nations preview. The lads field members' questions about this year's tournament, giving their assessments of each of the teams along the way.One listener also unearths a potential 'Lions curse' on Ireland, and perhaps even the other pertinent nations, at World Cups. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 30, 202359 min

Cooney for Scotland, who is Ireland's 12, and the RFU's tackle height law

Eoin Toolan joins Murray Kinsella to start building up to the Six Nations, with the lads discussing Johnny Sexton's fitness and how Andy Farrell should pick in his 23 for the opening clash against Wales.With Scotland boss Gregor Townsend saying that John Cooney wants to play for them, Eoin outlines his reservations about the change in World Rugby's eligibility rules.Eoin and Murray also chat about the RFU's announcement that the legal tackle height will be lowered to the waist at community levels of the game. Eoin worries that it is a reckless decision and the lads agree that it has been very poorly communicated. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 25, 202344 min

How real are the Aki-Munster links, Ringrose's functional brilliance, and Ulster turn the corner

Murray Kinsella and Bernard Jackman join Gavan Casey after a huge European weekend for the provinces which yielded mixed results. The lads discuss Munster's stirring efforts in Toulouse, where Murray says French journalists have already made peace with, as they see it, Leinster's inevitable Champions Cup success.How realistic a prospect is it that we see Bundee Aki in Munster red next season? 'Berch' and Murray give their thoughts.Ulster's performance -- and the individual upturns of players like Duane Vermeulen, Jacob Stockdale and John Cooney -- bore all the hallmarks of a side which has turned the corner. The lads look ahead to a last-16 clash with Leinster in Dublin.And Connacht blew a chance for a home run as far as the Challenge Cup final: our analysts give their thoughts on the western province's selection against Newcastle, as well as Connacht's coaching future. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 23, 20231h 8m

Carbery out, Byrne and Crowley in: Jonny Holland on Ireland's Six Nations selection

On this week's midweek pod recorded in the aftermath of a hugely intriguing Six Nations squad announcement by Ireland, former Munster out-half and current Cork Con head coach Jonny Holland joins Gavan Casey to run the rule over Andy Farrell's big calls. There were none bigger than that made in Holland's former position: he gives his thoughts on Joey Carbery's form and Ross Byrne's 'fully deserved' call-up, and offers a behind-the-scenes insight into Jack Crowley whom he has coached at Con in recent seasons.Holland also provides his perspective on Ben Healy's upcoming move to Scotland, which has resulted in his call-up by Gregor Townsend for this year's Six Nations.Plus, all of the other Ireland-squad talking points: the inclusions of Keith Earls, Jacob Stockdale and Conor Murray; the exclusions of Kieran Treadwell and Nick Timoney; and why Mike Haley might be almost a victim of his own form in the Munster fullback jersey. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 19, 202350 min

Eddie's back, Rowntree's biggest intangible impact, and possible Aki issues

Murray Kinsella, Bernard Jackman and Gavan Casey had their hands full on Monday's pod after a stacked week of European action for the provinces and massive news in the wider rugby world.Firstly, Eddie Jones is back in the saddle, replacing Dave Rennie as the Wallabies' head coach less than nine months out from the World Cup. The lads assess a ruthless decision by Rugby Australia and whether or not it feels like the right call.Murray was in La Rochelle on Saturday as Ulster had their hearts broken at the death. He and 'Berch' determine whether or not their spirited performance in biblical conditions constitutes a turning point for Dan McFarland's men, and our analysts also give their thoughts on the northern province's half-back selection for a "season-defining" home tie with Sale Sharks.Leinster were, again, imperious in their destruction of Gloucester -- but how seriously should we take their apparent issues at the scrum and in lineout maul defence in recent weeks? Murray outlines why Jamie Osborne is an "elite" prospect for both Leinster and Ireland, and Berch takes us back to his first impressions of European-rugby centurion Cian Healy and why he's stunned that the 35-year-old has made it this far in his pro rugby career.The lads also delved into Munster's 14-man stand against Northampton which saw Graham Rowntree hand the keys to young, inexperienced players off the bench even as Saints began to turn the screw entering the final quarter. Gavin Coombes, meanwhile, has taken his game to a new level; Murray explains how and why.Plus, Connacht hockeyed Brive in Galway, but is there something afoot with Bundee Aki? Andy Friend certainly appeared to suggest as much post-match.And Berch gives his thoughts on some noise from professional coaches who are planning on making the case to World Rugby for an NRL-style post-match review process for high tackles, which would prevent red cards from 'ruining the game' as they see it. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 16, 20231h 23m

Disciplinary nonsense, 'creativity' needed in Munster's front-row hunt, and provinces' preview

Eoin Toolan joins Gavan Casey to discuss Owen Farrell's 6/4/3-match ban. The lads react to the news that Munster have ruled themselves out of the signing of Malcolm Marx, and Eoin explains why they'd be better off looking for a prop in any case.They also look ahead to the weekend's Champions Cup games involving the provinces and discuss Connacht's coaching future. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 12, 202344 min

Leinster find a way, Ulster's pain persists, Munster's squad building

Leinster appeared to be in big trouble against the Ospreys but they managed to win yet again. Gavan Casey is joined by Bernard Jackman and Murray Kinsella to discuss how they did it.The lads also break down Ulster's latest defeat as their deeply worrying run of bad results continues, while they discuss Munster's win over the Lions and the southern province's hopes to keep building their squad. There's also a chat on Connacht's fine bonus-point win over the visiting Sharks. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 9, 20231h 9m

Who starts at 10 for Ireland if Sexton doesn't make it back for Wales?

Eoin Toolan joins Murray Kinsella to discuss Johnny Sexton's injury and what it means for Ireland. Does Joey Carbery go straight into the number 10 shirt for the start of the Six Nations if Sexton isn't back? Who else is really in the frame? How much would Sexton love to get one over on Warren Gatland?The lads also look forward to another big weekend of URC action. Eoin highlights the subtle variations in Leinster's play, the lack of confidence in Ulster, the growing sense of cohesion in Munster, and Connacht's hopes of a huge result against the Sharks. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 5, 202339 min

Scotsman Healy wins it for Munster, Ulster collapse, Leinster roll on

In the first pod of a big 2023, Gavan Casey is joined by Bernard Jackman and Murray Kinsella to discuss Munster's stunning comeback win against Ulster. The lads speak about Ben Healy's role off the bench as the Tipperary man gets set for a move to Scottish rugby.There's also plenty of chat about Ulster's mid-season collapse, as well as a review of Leinster's latest win. Berch and Murray were impressed by Ryan Baird once again as Leo Cullen's men beat Connacht.Gav also wonders how big a part the Sharks and Stormers will have to play in the second half of this season as the South African sides hit strong form. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 3, 20231h 7m

Toolan's end-of-year projections for 2023: A detailed look at what the provinces and Ireland should expect to achieve in the new year

In a festive final pod of the calendar year, Eoin Toolan joins Gavan Casey to answer three core questions about each of the provinces -- and the Ireland men's national team entering a World Cup year:• What’s a reasonable expectation of them in 2023?• What is the biggest area of improvement that could help them to achieve or exceed their expectations in 2023?• Who or what should their fans be most excited about going into 2023?Timestamps: Connacht (3:55), Ulster (12:58), Munster (21:12), Leinster (29:10), Ireland (36:03).Thanks to all of our members for your continued support over the last 12 months. Have a great one, everybody, and catch you on 3 January for a big Christmas review episode! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 21, 202249 min

Munster improvements continue, don't judge Gloucester, and life's a pitch for Ulster

Bernard Jackman joins Gavan Casey to explain why he feels Munster are tracking in the right direction on both sides of the ball after they held out Northampton at Franklin's Gardens.Leinster laid waste to a second-string Gloucester in Dublin, and while Berch laments George Skivington's decision to make 13 changes, he doesn't judge the Cherries boss for sparing his front-liners a beating within the context of the current Champions Cup format.Ulster left the Aviva with two bonus points against champions La Rochelle, and Berch believes the northern province should look closer to home rather than blame the EPCR for the 11th-hour switch of venue.And Connacht trucked on in the Challenge Cup, beating Brive despite some "scary" game-management. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 19, 202253 min

Eddie Jones to OZ, John Ryan to NZ, and Champions Cup review

Eoin Toolan joins Gavan Casey and he has it on good authority that Eddie Jones is heading back to his homeland for a gig with Rugby Australia, perhaps as soon as 2023. But how will it work?The lads also discuss the Bernard Laporte corruption scandal, and then dig into Leinster, Ulster and Munster's performances in the Champions Cup over the weekend. Eoin gives a glimpse of what John Ryan can expect on his new gig with the Chiefs in New Zealand, while Gavan wonders if Ryan -- unusually -- sealed his move by training hard while he was on Barbarians duty. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 14, 202241 min

Leinster make statement, Ulster look mentally scarred, and Crowley to 12?

Bernard Jackman joins Gavan Casey to assess a mixed bag of results for the provinces in Europe. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 12, 202258 min

Provinces switch focus to Europe and what next for Eddie Jones?

Ciarán Kennedy is joined by Eoin Toolan, who was impressed by the ‘ballsy’ decisions in Wales and England to relieve Wayne Pivac and Eddie Jones of their duties so close to a World Cup.Eoin ponders Jones’ next move and makes the point that his abrasive style is not always best suited to the modern player.Also, the lads look ahead to a huge weekend in Europe for the provinces and pick their Champions Cup winners before a ball is kicked. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 7, 202240 min

Leinster give Ulster a beatdown and Munster move up a gear

Bernard Jackman joins Murray Kinsella to discuss a very impressive Leinster comeback win, as well as Munster's bonus-point victory in Edinburgh, and Connacht's win against Benetton. The lads also chat about Eddie Jones, Welsh rugby, and the great Doddie Weir. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 5, 202257 min

How to fix rugby and should Ireland be worried about their World Cup pool?

Eoin Toolan joins Murray Kinsella to discuss 'the shape of the game' as World Rugby looks to make rugby a better product, while the lads also assess how Pool B is shaping up with just nine months to go until the action kicks off in France. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 30, 202243 min