Second Captains @ The Irish Times

Eoin Reddan on self analysis and success, Golf in the Olympics, Eiffel 65

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Thu, 30 Jun 2016 09:39:55 +0000

Eoin Reddan retired last Saturday, camped in the South African 22, probing for a late Irish series victory and a slice of history. He takes us back to the day he left Munster, how his dad influenced his career, and tells us the one thing he'd do differently second time round. Shane Lowry has followed Rory McIlroy and Graeme McDowell and pulled out of the Rio Olympics. Lawrence Donegan tells us why the golf experiment at the Games could be doomed to failure. Plus there's Eoin's brain-scoop interview technique, a busy weekend of GAA, and our continuing obsession with Eiffel 65.

QF Previews, Ronaldo's varicose veins, Belgian over confidence, Germany Italy

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Wed, 29 Jun 2016 21:46:30 +0000

With the Quarter Finals looming we go deep on Belgian over confidence, Ronaldo's veins, football in the groin, French pressure, and England's academy generation. Belgian journalist Kristof Terreur gives his thoughts on player power in the Belgian camp, John Brewin previews Poland V Portugal and Ken explains why he thinks Germany will finally get past Italy.

ICELAND 2-1 ENGLAND, BLAME GAME, VIKING THUNDER CLAP

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Tue, 28 Jun 2016 12:42:36 +0000

It was a quite astonishing night of football in Nice last night - Iceland defeat England 2-1, Roy Hodgson resigns in disgrace, and the Viking thunder-clap is heard around the world. We get the Icelandic reaction from writer and historian Anton Ingi Sveinbjorsson, while Jonathan Wilson and Ken try and sift through the wreckage of another English tournament disaster. Plus there's Joe Hart's chocolate wrists, Danny Baker and Chris Waddle's righteous anger, Steve McClaren's prescient commentary and George Hamilton's finest hour.

Finish them Ireland, GAA hots up, free taking clinic, ageing disgracefully

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Mon, 27 Jun 2016 14:10:23 +0000

Eoin and Murph are back in studio after a day-trip to Lyon to see Ireland knocked out of the Euros by the hosts - and today we discuss Ireland's inability to finish off a poor South African team, with Shane Horgan. The GAA season at least has seen a major upturn in drama in the last 8 days, and Oisin McConville is in studio to pick apart Donegal and Monaghan's thrilling draw on Saturday night. Plus there's a free-taking clinic at no extra cost, Murph's selfie game and ageing disgracefully.

Irish heartbreak in Lyon, obstacles and opportunities, Hendrick hurry

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Mon, 27 Jun 2016 12:00:52 +0000

Ireland made us proud in this tournament on and off the field - we sum up an amazing few weeks for the fans, players and coaches involved. We ask Richie Sadlier, Ken and Philippe Auclair if there was much more the Irish players could have done and just how good are France. Plus there's existential dread, fun pilots, Pogba's physique and making Thierry squirm.

Ireland V France preview, Brady Family Fame, Brexit, banks, FTSE and football

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Fri, 24 Jun 2016 11:31:52 +0000

After 36 hours of ecstasy, it's time to turn our attention to France in the last 16 of the Euros. Ken advocates zero changes to the mindset and personnel that did for the Italians on Wednesday night, and we patriotically predict French victory, safe in the knowledge our predictions have been woefully incorrect thus far. Simon Kuper and Jonathan Wilson are also on hand to talk Brexit, banks, FTSE and football, and there's the Brady family being adorable, French obsession with the Henry handball, and Ken's Larry David metamorphosis.

IRELAND 1-0 ITALY: THE GAME, THE GOAL, THE CELEBRATIONS, THE TEARS, THE NIGHT WE'LL NEVER FORGET

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Thu, 23 Jun 2016 12:46:51 +0000

It's a scoreline and a performance that will live long in the memory. We discuss Shane Long's crazy eyes, Wes' redemption, and the moment between Robbie Brady and his family that will be an iconic moment for this generation of football fans. Martin O'Neill's bravery in selection was utterly vindicated. Ken talks to Jeff Hendrick, Wes Hoolahan and James McCarthy in Lille, Richie Sadlier joins us in studio and we get the thoughts of Dion Fanning and Miguel Delaney.

Ire V Ita preview party, Damn you Tardelli, NI fans, Spain pain

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Wed, 22 Jun 2016 09:18:25 +0000

It's the morning of our final group game, and the hopes and dreams of pre-tournament have been replaced by a sense of foreboding. Antonio Conte has promised no favours, our team's confidence is fragile after Belgium, and there's uncertainty over team selection... so JOIN THE PARTY HERE!! Ken, Eoin and Murph search for reasons to be cheerful, and Emmet Malone reports from the team camp ahead of tonight's do-or-die, win-or-bust game against Italy. Plus there's Eoin's Poems, NI fans and Germania.

Dog Eat Dog, Welsh Heaven, English path, Roy's jungle rules, Goooools

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Tue, 21 Jun 2016 12:40:54 +0000

Wales march into the next round of the Euros as group winners, and their all-action style, powered by player of the tournament Gareth Bale, has comprehensively won Eoin over. We speak to Welsh legend Dean Saunders. Sid Lowe talks to us about Spain and Pedro throwing his toys out of the pram, plus there's Ken's first negative experience of the French transport infrastructure, humiliation in front of a regular contributor, our first 'Ken's gooools' of the tournament, and why Ireland need to embrace the dark side.

Irish Sport: Hope and Crushing Disappointment, Lowry's pain, 3rd Test V SA, Go Galway

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Mon, 20 Jun 2016 13:14:02 +0000

It was a sporting weekend of unremitting torture for most fans - decisive defeat at the Euros, late anguish in Johannesburg, and final round heartbreak for Shane Lowry at the US Open. And yet Murph can see an upside - Galway hero Paul Conroy joins us to talk about their come-from-nowhere win over Mayo on Saturday night. Malachy Clerkin talks golf lunacy and Dustin Johnson's brain, and Gerry Thornley joins us from Port Elizabeth to look ahead to the third test next Saturday.

EURO 2016 DAILY SHOW - IRELAND'S MENTAL RECOVERY, REST GAME FOR ITALY, DARYL MURPHY?

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Mon, 20 Jun 2016 10:14:10 +0000

Richie Sadlier joins us in studio to try and rouse some optimism ahead of Wednesday night against the Italians. We hear the 12 year old reason why Italy might have no wish to help out Sweden courtesy of Gabriele Marcotti, and we pray for the sort of Italian disrespect for the tournament's integrity by debating how many of their best players they're going to drop. Plus there's Presidential protocol, Ciaran being insufferable and debating whether a nation should now turn its hungry eyes to Daryl Murphy.

Poking through the embers of 3-0 defeat to Belgium

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Sun, 19 Jun 2016 09:22:02 +0000

After a painful 3-0 defeat to Belgium, Eoin Ken and Murph wonder if Ireland were just 'beaten by the best', or can we, as a nation, find some scapegoats, hard luck stories, or a referee to hate. Plus there's false positivity, admitting you're wrong, and why Eoin McDevitt is such a great example to all the overpaid footballers out there.

Roy Keane japes, replacing Walters, N Ireland win, Brave Roy Hodgson

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Fri, 17 Jun 2016 13:33:56 +0000

It's a huge weekend for Ireland, as we face into our game against Belgium in Bordeaux tomorrow, and the Belgians are apparently in turmoil, at war with themselves and a tactical shambles. Can we take advantage? Richie Sadlier is in studio, and has brought a new four-legged friend... Ken was in Lens for England-Wales, and we talk Rooney, Hart and Bale. Michael Walker tells us about Northern Ireland's brilliant win yesterday and, inevitably, there's Jimmy Nesbitt.

Irish injustice and unity, stirring English panic, which Belgium

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Thu, 16 Jun 2016 09:02:57 +0000

England and Wales is one of the tastiest games of the group stages, and to Ken, Eoin and Murph's delight Wales know how to press the English panic button. Ahead of Saturday, we take a look at the most infamous game in Ireland and Belgium's shared history - the World Cup qualifier in 1981 that saw Ireland robbed by a Portuguese referee. 20 years later author and sports journalist Paul Howard tracked him down and brought him face to face with his mistakes. Paul joins us in studio to tell us the remarkable tale of what happened that day. Plus there's sledging Wayne Rooney, bodyswap movies and Kyle Lafferty.

Ronaldo's geography, Iceland joy, Paul McGrath on Lukaku, Welsh PR

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Wed, 15 Jun 2016 10:10:32 +0000

Paul McGrath joins Ken, Eoin and Murph to continue our coverage of Ireland in our daily Euro 2016 podcast, and one of Ireland's greatest ever footballers is bullish about our chances of handling Romelu Lukaku and company on Saturday. We get the Welsh view from Tom Williams of AFP as Gareth Bale channels his inner Warren Gatland and needles the English ahead of their match tomorrow, and there's also feverish Icelandic commentary, Ronaldo's poor grasp of geography and the post-masculine vibe of the Irish fan experience.

EURO 2016 DAILY SHOW - IRE 1-1 SWEDEN, WES LOVE, ROBBIE'S EYES, BAFFLING BELGIANS

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Tue, 14 Jun 2016 11:47:31 +0000

It was a positive start to the Euros for Ireland, with Wes Hoolahan's goal and performance the highlight in our 1-1 draw with Sweden. Ken is in Paris, having sampled a night with the Irish fans, which he assures us was part of a wider study on fan behaviour throughout the tournament... Richie Sadlier joins us in studio and we discuss Jeff Hendrick's coming of age, Jon Walters injury, what exactly it takes for a player to fail a pre-match fitness test, issues with Seamus Coleman and James McCarthy, and Robbie's eyes. And Richie reveals his anguish at taking on the senior analyst role in RTE.

14 man Ireland Beat Boks, The Jared Payne factor, Under 20's create history, Tipp top Cork

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Mon, 13 Jun 2016 13:45:29 +0000

It was as if the world of sport realised that it needed to up it's game to get any attention as the Euros kicked off... and both the GAA and rugby action at the weekend was pretty entertaining. 14-man Ireland recorded a stunning first ever victory over the Springboks in South Africa, while our u-20s beat New Zealand in similarly emphatic style. Tipperary hammered Cork, Donegal opened up their summer, and Oisin McConville and Gerry Thornley are on hand to talk us through it all.

EURO 2016 DAILY SHOW - IRE V SWEDEN, KEN V RUSSIANS, ROBBIE'S BOOTS

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Mon, 13 Jun 2016 09:59:06 +0000

Eoin, Ken, Ciaran and Emmet Malone look forward to Ireland's Euro 2016 opener against Sweden, and back to the European festival or tear gas that took place in Marseille over the weekend.

EURO 2016 DAILY SHOW - EPISODE 1: IRISH ON HOLIDAY, ENGLISH CHANTS, MASCOT MISCHIEF

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Fri, 10 Jun 2016 12:35:47 +0000

The Euros are finally here, and we have the first of our daily shows throughout the tournament. Ken Early is in Marseilles, uncomfortably close to the Queen Victoria pub, the unofficial England football supporters' HQ. Dion Fanning tells us why Ireland have taken the day off today, and Michael Walker is with Northern Ireland. Plus there's a scumbag of the week, and the giant dildo UEFA had to distance themselves from.

Support NI, All Ireland contenders, Euros and Ramadan, Ken's 11

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Thu, 09 Jun 2016 13:07:09 +0000

Two more All-Ireland contenders make their summer bow this weekend - Mike Quirke and Karol Mannion talk Donegal, and Kerry... and debate whether Roscommon deserve to be in that bracket too. We talk about the Muslim footballers playing in Euro 2016 and competing at the highest level while also observing Ramadan with journalist and activist Shireen Ahmed. Plus there's tedious Euros bus slogans, Ken's all-time Euros XI, and supporting Northern Ireland.

Shane Long's 10,000 hours, Frenchitude, Ronaldo and Rashford, RIP Big Boss

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Thu, 09 Jun 2016 11:13:02 +0000

Eoin, Ken and Ciaran are in the grip of Euro fever, as Jerome Boateng becomes a political football, the sportswear marketing campaigns become ever more complex, and Zlatan reveals another reason why he didn't fit in at Barcelona. We check in with Philippe Auclair to talk about the Yin and Yang of Frenchitude, on the eve of the tournament. And Oluwashina Okeleji joins us to pay tribute to his friend and interview sparring partner Stephen Keshi, aka the Godfather of Exodus, who died suddenly this week aged 54.

Martin and Roy all apologies, Vardy's move, Carneiro's case, Zlatan

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Tue, 07 Jun 2016 14:25:34 +0000

Ken has arrived in France, and reports live from his old town of Marseilles as preparations for Euro 2016 continue. Ireland have already had a couple of media storms, with Martin O'Neill's "queers" comment from last week revealed, and then apologised for over the weekend. Miguel Delaney joins us to talk about the relatively restrained reaction. Plus there's Ken's rapprochement with Basile Boli, laser hair removal with the Ireland football team, Jamie Vardy's next move and Zlatan's thoughts on Leicester.

The case for Waterford, McGuinness' plan to beat Dubs, Ali's magic, McDevitt on tour

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Tue, 07 Jun 2016 12:44:35 +0000

Waterford are All-Ireland contenders, and one of us is convinced they're about to win their first Liam McCarthy since 1959. Eoin Kelly and Malachy Clerkin are in studio to talk about their convincing win over Clare on Sunday. We discuss Jim McGuinness' 5-point plan to beat the Dubs, and Eoin relays in exhaustive detail his journey with the Hill on tour. Plus there's Muhammad Ali's magic tricks, emails from scum around the country, and Murph plans a road-trip with his Dad.

The Greatest: Our Muhammad Ali Tribute

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Mon, 06 Jun 2016 20:36:43 +0000

Come and join our celebration of the life of The Greatest. Murph and Ken are ruthlessly axed from this momentous show in favour of World Champion boxer Andy Lee and Second Captains producer/Ali superfan Mark Horgan. Eoin, Mark and Andy are joined by one of America’s foremost civil rights figures, Reverend Jesse Jackson, to discuss Ali’s role in the freedom struggle and to hear Rev. Jackson’s personal recollections of moments shared with The Champ. And Eoin spends some time in the company of the incomparable Jerry Izenberg at his home in Nevada (Jerry’s home, not Eoin’s). Jerry unleashes all of his storytelling ability to get to the heart of what his friend Ali was like in the quiet moments, away from the ring and tv cameras. We also pay some audio tributes to Ali with a little help from Howard Cossell, Mike Tyson, Spike Lee and George Foreman. RIP Muhammad Ali.

Roy's addiction to truth, Martin v Dunphy, France's race row, Paul McGrath in Cork

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Thu, 02 Jun 2016 14:10:05 +0000

Eoin, Ken and Ciaran discuss Roy Keane's addiction to truth, Roy Hodgson's determination not to be remembered as Boring Roy, and the ongoing racism controversy in French football Emmet Malone joins us in studio to analyse Keane's remarks and bring us up to speed on what's been happening down in Cork. Plus there’s Martin O'Neill's pop at Dunphy, Paul McGrath, and Matt Spiro talks to us about L'Affaire Benzema.

Brolly, Geezer and gut, burden of the greatest, Darragh O'Se wisdom, John Haze

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Thu, 02 Jun 2016 12:49:25 +0000

Armagh's manager Kieran McGeeney has been fiercely criticised since their heavy championship defeat to Cavan. His old team-mate Oisin McConville is in studio to talk about Brolly, McGeeney and the strained relationship between Armagh and his club Crossmaglen Rangers. With the NBA Finals about to tip off, a husky voiced US Murph tells us about the Golden State Warriors' thrilling comeback from 3-1 down to defeat Oklahoma City, and how his opinion of Steph Curry has changed in recent weeks. Plus there's Darragh O Se, fool's pardons, Eoin's Poems, keesters and basketball nirvana.

Second Captains Euro 2016 Special from Cork

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Tue, 31 May 2016 00:32:57 +0000

To celebrate Ireland’s first international in Cork since 1985, we went to one of the city’s finest establishments, Crane Lane Theatre, to talk all things Euros. Brian Kerr, Stephen Hunt and Dion Fanning joined us on stage to discuss O’Neill, realistic ambitions, our group opponents, and the secret sauce that drives all Irish football teams to success at major tournaments. Plus there’s Sergio Ramos the charmer, Ronaldo’s dream and tons and tons of Cork love. Thanks everyone, we had a ball.

Connacht are champs, the perfect season, magnificent Muldoon

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Mon, 30 May 2016 10:08:19 +0000

Exciting on the field, classy off it, successful, joyful noisy fans, loveable underdogs, beating old foes, saving their best performance for the final - this has been the perfect season for Connacht. Shane Horgan and Gerry Thornley reflect on an amazing year for Pat Lam's team, what makes them tick, and look at what the future holds for all involved. Plus there's limp Leinster, comparing Real Madrid with Connacht, and magnificent Muldoon.

Champions League final, Martin O'Neill's squad shuffle, Eric at 50, Jose's name

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Thu, 26 May 2016 15:37:16 +0000

Ken is in Milan for the Champions League final between Atletico and Real Madrid, and is so far unimpressed by the brutalist architecture of that great city's train station. Emmet Malone came straight from the Ireland camp to discuss the latest squad permutations and gives us a possible surprise inclusion when Martin O'Neill eventually names his squad next Tuesday night, after Ireland-Belarus. Plus there's Jose's intellectual property rights, Ken's goooaaals, and news of a live show in Cork next Monday for our listeners, check out http://www.irishtimes.com/competitions/secondcaptainscorkevent for more details.

Ben Johnson in studio, Kellie Harrington, Duffer poems

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Thu, 26 May 2016 13:45:51 +0000

It's seldom enough you can say with certainty that you are talking to a man who, however briefly, was the most famous man on the planet. Ben Johnson, the man stripped of the 100m gold medal in the 88 Olympics, joins us in studio. He give us his thoughts on Usain Bolt, his old rival Carl Lewis, mental health, his childhood, and how he has found peace in retirement. We speak to Eddie Bolger, coach to Ireland's latest boxing sensation Kellie Harrington. Plus there's Duffer poems, Scandinavian scum and news on our Cork show on Monday 30th May - check out http://www.irishtimes.com/competitions/secondcaptainscorkevent for more details.

'Irish' Rory McIlroy's big weekend, Connacht mainline, Leinster peak, Tipp abide

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Mon, 23 May 2016 16:06:09 +0000

Rory McIlroy had a pretty good weekend - winning the Irish Open in thrilling style at the K Club. We reflect on how he saved the tournament, breathed new life into it, and at long last finally put together 4 good rounds on the course. Connacht were mainlining fan frenzy in Galway, while Leinster had their best game of the season - we talk to Gerry Thornley and Shane Horgan about emotion, back stories, Leinster flow and the final in Murrayfield. Plus there's Cork's slide against Tipp, Pardew's premeditation, Muirfield men's lunch arrangements and Zlatan's possible arrival in England.

Mourinho and the Man U money model, human Louis, Brendan's back

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Mon, 23 May 2016 12:21:33 +0000

Eoin, Ken and Ciaran discuss the sacking of Louis van Gaal, the appointment of Jose Mourinho, and the path Manchester United are plotting back to the top. (It's a gold-bricked, silver-lampposted, diamante-studded Real Madrid path). Dion Fanning and Miguel Delaney join us to analyse the leaks and hatchet jobs of the weekend and give their opinion on whether United have chosen the right man. Plus there's going to an under 21 game in a Rolls Royce, Vardy's wedding, and what does Bobby Charlton even know about Instagram?

Liverpool rumbled, Klopp's summer, Robbie Ryan and Ronaldo

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Thu, 19 May 2016 09:36:24 +0000

Liverpool led the Europa League final for 10 minutes, then it all fell apart - Ken forms a super group of football journalists in Basel to help explain the second half collapse, and what players should be sold off this summer. As we prepare for the FA Cup final on Saturday, we look back to Manchester United's last win in the tournament in 2004. Millwall provided the opposition that day and up against a young Cristiano Ronaldo was Irish full-back Robbie Ryan. Robbie and his old team-mate (and house-mate) Richie Sadlier give us their memories. Plus there's selfish Sturridge, how 'hand ball' isn't a thing anymore and evenings spent with the criminal underworld.

Cork V Tipp, Connacht's big splash, Jason Quigley, McDevitt lyrical gangster

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Wed, 18 May 2016 21:16:45 +0000

Cork v Tipperary in the Munster hurling championship is always a big game - but this year, it feels like Clare and Waterford are hogging the limelight. Author and journalist Michael Foley tell us why Cork are still capable of springing a surprise. Former Irish amateur boxing prodigy Jason Quigley has won all 11 professional fights in a stunning start to his career in the paid ranks - he joins us from LA. Plus there's sports emojis, Eoin's Poems, and Connacht's search for a home.

Dubs on the road, Justice 'Connacht Style', Jason Day era, Galvin's league

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Mon, 16 May 2016 14:03:48 +0000

We talk to Micheal Quirke and Karol Mannion about the injustice of forcing Dublin fans to travel outside the city, Paul Galvin's disdain for provincial titles, and who the realistic contenders are for an All Ireland title. Post Tiger was supposed to be the Rory McIlroy - Jordan Spieth era, then along came Jason Day. We talk to Sam Weinman of Golf Digest about the Australian golfing machine. Plus there's fencing fleche, golfer's gripes and justice 'Connacht Style'.

Terry's tears, Old Trafford bomb farce, P.T Benitez, oh Spurs

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Mon, 16 May 2016 12:45:32 +0000

Eoin, Ken and Ciaran discuss John Terry's emotional farewell speech, Carlo Ancelotti's fresh insight into "managing up" at Chelsea, and Olivier Giroud's brutal hazing of a young Irishman trying to make his way in the game. Oliver Kay was at Old Trafford on a bizarre day that started with uncertainty and tension and ended in farce. And John Brewin witnessed the passionate love of the Geordie masses for Rafael Benitez.

Epstein on Caster Semenya, World Champ Natalya Coyle, Lovin' Dublin

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Thu, 12 May 2016 15:54:03 +0000

Natalya Coyle won Mixed Relay Gold at the Modern Pentathlon World Cup in Florida on Sunday and joined us in studio to talk about Olympic qualifying stress, fencing tears and staying cool under pressure. We talk to David Epstein, author of "The Sports Gene", about Caster Semenya's return to the public consciousness and the sports world's attempts to make the male/female issue a binary one. Plus there's mes que un county, Murph's forked tongue and General George Patton's Olympic pedigree.

Belgian Hazard, Martin and Ken, Fergie time, Big Sam's boogey 12/05/16

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Thu, 12 May 2016 13:48:39 +0000

Eoin, Ken and Ciaran discuss Martin O'Neill's 35-man squad, an awkward phone call between Carlo Ancelotti and Mario Götze, and the final apotheosis of Allardyce. Dion Fanning reflects on what the post-Euros future might be for Ireland's management duo. And Jacob Steinberg joins us to talk about a transformative season for West Ham United.

When good GAA pundits turn bad, Clare pinch it, rugby moneyball 09/05/16

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Mon, 09 May 2016 15:13:49 +0000

Clare are League champions for the first time since 1978, thanks to the last-minute heroics of 2013 Hurler of the Year Tony Kelly. Malachy Clerkin and Eoin Kelly think this could be a good result for both teams ahead of this year's championship. Connacht are following the Glasgow blueprint, but how long can both teams sustain their Moneyball-esque balancing act? The BBC's Tom English joins us. Plus there's Eoin McDevitt's poetry, GAA pundits giving it both barrels, and the importance of banging your own drum.

Man Utd shaft of light, City's slide, Pep's docs, Hammers Heist 09/05/16

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Mon, 09 May 2016 12:02:20 +0000

Eoin, Ken and Ciaran discuss the Leicester title party, Vardy's nose rubbing, Kompany's misery, the difficulties of being on Pep Guardiola's medical staff, and Jurgen Klopp's Basel-invite u-turn. Jonathan Wilson thinks Sunderland are on the up after the win over Chelsea that promises Premier League redemption. And John Brewin joins us to analyse the Mancunian scramble for fourth place.

Leicester go stateside, Khan can, Return of The Mack, Obama show 05/05/16

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Thu, 05 May 2016 13:57:55 +0000

The reverberations of Leicester City's Premier League win have reached the Bay Area - we talk to US Murph about the greatest shocks in US sport, Ted Cruz's downfall, movie moments, and the corn fields of Iowa. We have the Return of the Mack, Ken's boxing nickname, and the Barack Obama comedy show. And Andy Lee comes into studio to help us look ahead to Saul Canelo Alvarez and Amir Khan.

Pep the failure, Madrid knife fight, Sturridge The Martian 05/05/16

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Thu, 05 May 2016 12:29:42 +0000

Eoin, Ken and Ciaran talk about nerd nonsense Versus mindless gut instinct, two Champions League semi-finals of contrasting quality, Sturrdige The Martian, and the golden afterglow of Leicester's title win. Raphael Honigstein joins us to discuss whether Pep has failed at Bayern. And Sid Lowe looks forward to another all-Spanish Champions League knife fight.

Bonus Second Captains KeeganCast 04/05/16

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Wed, 04 May 2016 17:50:03 +0000

Ken caught up with Kevin Keegan to discuss Leicester's triumph, drugs in football, and the time Kevin mocked a young Eoin McDevitt. We also discuss likeable football men, 50 mile runs, Fergie's self praise and Richard Keys' sixth sense.

All-Time Long Odds, Leicester party, Davy Fitz's trilogy, angry Sexton

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Tue, 03 May 2016 14:34:05 +0000

We rate Leicester's PL win alongside the all-time shocks in sport, Ken explains his Black Swan theory and we talk to the real life Jason Bourne....of BBC Radio Leicester. Davy Fitz wasn't his usual phlegmatic self in the league final, even with Donal Og alongside him. Eoin Kelly and Malachy Clerkin analyse the Clare Waterford trilogy. Plus there's Nesbitt watch, and Gerry Thornley on an angry Johnny Sexton, and how bad PR can create good rugby.

Leicester City: Premier League Champions

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Tue, 03 May 2016 13:26:48 +0000

Eoin and Ken reflect on Leicester's title win. Amazing as it now seems, all of this was foretold. Richard III, pizza, dilly-ding dilly-dong. Jonathan Wilson and Gabriele Marcotti try to explain the inexplicable. Plus there's eye gouges, our friendly phone chats with Ranieri, Bayern V Mad Dogs and Ardiles hurtin'.

Kerry Lose Tommy Walsh, Ulster-Leinster, Hurling final

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Thu, 28 Apr 2016 14:54:06 +0000

Tommy Walsh arrived home from Australia in late 2014 with the prospect of a long and fruitful Gaelic football career ahead of him. But today he’s walked away from the Kerry panel, and we talk to his club-man and former Kerry All-Ireland winner Micheal Quirke. Stephen Ferris and Shane Horgan talk to us about the Ulster-Leinster game, and the current shambles with Munster, and there’s also the Hurling League final, Martin Castrogiovanni and invasive Aussie Rules tv pundits.

Atletico and Leicester show the way, Hillsborough Verdict

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Thu, 28 Apr 2016 13:24:42 +0000

Eoin has got another one of his crackpot theories. He thinks Leicester are the best team in the Premier League. He and Ken talk about that, and the impossibly tight trousers middle-aged football managers are forcing themselves into in an effort to appear young. Jonathan Wilson talks to us about Atletico's defeat of Bayern in the Champions League semis, and barrister James Mehigan, who represented 77 of the Hillsborough families in the recent inquest, joins us to analyse the meaning of the verdict.

Unstoppable Dubs, New Munster Head Man, McGregor Mystery

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Mon, 25 Apr 2016 13:52:36 +0000

Dublin won their fourth League title in a row, at a canter against Kerry in front of almost 80,000 people in Croke Park yesterday - Oisin McConville and Karol Mannion paint a gloomy picture for the rest of the country as we look ahead to the summer. Who is Rassie Erasmus, the man set to become Munster's first Director of Rugby, and what does his arrival mean for the province's home-grown coaching ticket? Craig Ray joins us from South Africa. Plus - is there a credibility gap developing between Conor McGregor's twitter feed and, eh, reality? And there's on-field head coach Stephen Cluxton, bank manager music and wishing ill on the living.

Leicester PFA Sweep, Fat-burning Sakho, Goooooooooools

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Mon, 25 Apr 2016 11:42:46 +0000

Eoin, Ken and Ciaran talk about Leicester's sweep at the PFA awards and Mamadou Sakho's little fat-burner problem. Tony Barrett joins us to talk about Liverpool's likely handling of the Sakho situation And John Brewin was at Wembley for both FA Cup semi-finals as Manchester United and Crystal Palace booked their places for the rematch of the classic final of 1990

Leicester Listing, Merseyside Massacre, Totti Triumph

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Thu, 21 Apr 2016 14:07:48 +0000

Eoin, Ken and Ciaran talk about Leicester's run-in and Roy Hodgson's runaway sentences. Dion Fanning joins us in studio to talk about the Merseyside Derby. And Terry Daley reports from Rome on a glory night for Francesco Totti.

McGregor Bombshell, Murray v Djokovic, US Murph

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Thu, 21 Apr 2016 13:01:01 +0000

Ken has just about managed to get over his shock and dismay, and give us his considered opinion on Conor McGregor's 'retirement'. We talk about the fascinating differences of opinion in recent weeks between Andy Murray and Novak Djokovic on the issue of doping in tennis. Plus we have US Murph on Kobe Bryant's retirement, and there's Acadian driftwood, Ivy League colleges and circadian rhythms.

All New Zen Davy Fitz, Connacht Crush Munster, Naked lady photographer shout-out

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Mon, 18 Apr 2016 15:01:35 +0000

The hurling world has been waiting for a really big Clare-Kilkenny match-up for three years, and when it finally came, Clare emerged convincing winners. Malachy Clerkin and Eoin Kelly give us their verdicts. Gerry Thornley was in the Sportsground to see Munster being out-gunned in every facet by Connacht on Saturday night. And there's teenage Murph's worst nightmare, Acadian driftwood, and Galway people's aversion to walking.

Leicester stay on track, Men in Blazers and Tom Selleck

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Mon, 18 Apr 2016 13:11:01 +0000

The Leicester City bandwagon lurched a little yesterday but a controversial last-minute penalty against West Ham ensured that they stay on track for their miracle league win. We discuss the continuing growth of soccer in the US with Roger Bennett of the Men in Blazers podcast in New York, and there's birch trees, birdsong... and Tom Selleck.

NYCFC burn, Aldridge screech, Donald Trump bloodlust, Lee on Hyland

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Fri, 15 Apr 2016 16:21:16 +0000

It's the last show of our week in New York, and we sent our ace reporter (and past-and-future-middleweight champ) Andy Lee to talk to Patrick Hyland, who fights Gary Russell Jnr for the WBC featherweight title tomorrow night in Connecticut. Plus there's our anti-Trump rally bloodlust, an update on ken's sunburn woes and Eoin's earnest attempts to impress Henry Shefflin with his running prowess...

NYC with Henry Shefflin, Andy Lee, John Duddy and Ken's Goooalls

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Thu, 14 Apr 2016 17:58:56 +0000

It's a very special show from the rooftop terrace of Brass Monkey in New York as we talk to Henry Shefflin about the Sunday Game, Kilkenny's chances of a three in a row, and playing Junior B football. Andy Lee and John Duddy talk about the fight that never happened between them, the buzz of working with Robert De Niro and home town decisions. Plus there's sporting failure, points and pints, and Ken's gooooaaallls.

Live show in NYC with Des Bishop and Grant Wahl

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Thu, 14 Apr 2016 15:50:06 +0000

We made our way to the rooftop of the Brass Monkey bar in Manhattan where we were joined by ace comedian Des Bishop, American soccer supremo Grant Wahl of Sports Illustrated and a crowd of mostly legal Irish emigrants. We discuss Des' Italia 90 experience, Ronaldo's majestic hat trick, the disappearance of Barcelona's magic dust and Ken's sunburn.

American ambition, Fergie's prodigy in NY, Trump'n it

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Tue, 12 Apr 2016 21:56:13 +0000

Eoin, Ken and Ciaran are absorbing New York City. They talk about Trump's likely conquest of his home state and what inspired McDevitt the cub reporter. Legendary New York Times sports columnist George Vecsey talks to us about his eight World Cups and why Italian Americans originally chose baseball over soccer. And Kevin Grogan joins us in the Brass Monkey to talk to us about his career, Fergie, and his path to his current role as technical director of a club here in the US.

New York City I love you, choke good, emigrant life

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Tue, 12 Apr 2016 19:15:30 +0000

It's our first show from New York City, and it's already been eventful. Murph tells us of his calamitous family history in the greater New York area, while Ken relates his failed time as Henry Shefflin's movie reviewer. We hear from Galway hurler Johnny Glynn on why he's staying in New York this summer and forsaking a shot at the Liam McCarthy Cup, and author of "Win At Losing" Sam Weinman of Golf Digest talks chokes in the aftermath of Jordan Spieth at the Masters.

Body shaming special, replacing Tiger, Joshua the saviour

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Thu, 07 Apr 2016 14:15:14 +0000

Eoin Ken and Murph present a body shaming special featuring the physiques of Rory McIlory, Tiger Woods and Anthony Joshua. Do muscles make medals, and is it ok to punch a 75 year old in the stomach? We ask Brian Murphy if the combined marketing power of Rory, Jason Day and Jordan Spieth can fill the Tiger Woods shaped hole in our lives. Plus there's acclaimed author Donald McRae on Anthony Joshua's attempts to save boxing, posing naked, and did Tiger take up the wrong sport.

Zlatan's 24 hours, Jeez Luiz, Hart heart, Ranieri pie

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Thu, 07 Apr 2016 12:43:06 +0000

Eoin and Ken discuss some allegations regarding Zlatan and the impressive musculature he acquired in a few short months at Juventus. Meanwhile Claudio Ranieri and Thomas Tuchel offer contrasting approaches to management at the top level Miguel Delaney joins us from La Ville Lumière to hail another wonderful performance by David Luiz. And Sid Lowe analyses Real Madrid's disastrous performance at Wolfsburg.

Doctor drugs, Munster and Leinster lose it, high on league action

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Mon, 04 Apr 2016 14:40:39 +0000

After another weekend of doping allegations, we explain to listeners why it makes sense that everyone is taking drugs in sport except footballers. Richie Sadlier joins us in studio. Shane Horgan talks about the indiscipline that plagued both Leinster and Munster's performances in the Aviva on Saturday. Plus Murph is high on life after sampling the final day of the Allianz Football Leagues, and we bring you news of a devastating live TV disaster with Jimmy Nesbitt.

Football says nothing to see here, Leicester wall, Ronaldo's undies

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Mon, 04 Apr 2016 13:15:14 +0000

Eoin, Ken and Ciaran talk about Real Madrid's classic team photo, Messi's Panama problem, and the doping allegations that are not really rocking football just yet. Jonathan Wilson joins us to talk more about the magical Leicester fairytale. And Dermot Corrigan reports on Real Madrid's superb win at Camp Nou.

McGregor rematch - brave or bonkers, Leinster V Munster, US women's cash crunch

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Thu, 31 Mar 2016 14:34:03 +0000

Conor McGregor is going back to fight Nate Diaz, at the same weight class, at UFC 200 in July - is this ballsy, or bonkers? Leinster and Munster face off at the Aviva on Saturday, and Liam Toland and Shane Horgan are on hand to look at the games that could decide Munster's medium-term future. Plus there's Tony Robbins, Jimmy Nesbitt, the black death, and an equality storm brewing in US women's football.

Sky the limit for Neville, smart Ireland, Walters's knee, France faves

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Thu, 31 Mar 2016 11:57:10 +0000

Eoin, Ken and Ciaran talk about Gary Neville and Trump, how failure brings empathy, Ken's trip to Windsor Park, murals and metaphors, and what we learned about Ireland over the international friendly week. Ed Malyon joins us to reflect on Gary Neville's brief, bitter career as Valencia coach. And Philippe Auclair is excited by what he sees from Didier Deschamps' developing French team.

Connacht outskill Leinster, boxing's big problem, Dublin Donegal beef

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Mon, 28 Mar 2016 12:54:23 +0000

Connacht grappled with wind, rain, injuries and their history to record a dramatic win over Leinster on Saturday. Gerry Thornley examines their commitment to skill and grace under pressure and why they are the best story in European rugby at the moment. It was a dark night for boxing as Nick Blackwell was left in an induced coma following his title fight with Chris Eubank Jr on Saturday. We ask Doctor Eanna Falvey if this was a watershed moment for the sport. Plus there's Oisin McConville on eye gouging in GAA, refereeing big men and what is it about Brain Cody?

Victorious Ireland, big Shane Duffy, England for Euro 2016, LVG and Cruyff

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Mon, 28 Mar 2016 11:37:34 +0000

Eoin and Ken discuss Ireland's victory over Switzerland, Roy Hodgson's gloom free England and the schism between Cruyff and van Gaal. Emmet Malone joins us in studio to analyse Martin O'Neill's squad options.Plus there's fake Shay Given's missed opportunity, the Good Friday sports event booze loophole and how to insult a goalie.

Johan Cruyff departs, Sadlier on Ireland, O'Neill WAGS, CL makeover

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Thu, 24 Mar 2016 16:33:39 +0000

Eoin, Ken and Ciaran talk about Johan Cruyff, the football genius who reinvented the Netherlands' image of itself. Richard Sadlier discusses the Ireland situation ahead of the upcoming friendlies, and looks at comparisons made between Roy Keane and Jack Byrne. And we talk to David Winner about the influence Cruyff has had on football worldwide

Let's get political, big week for Connacht sport, Obama's Mexican Wave

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Thu, 24 Mar 2016 14:53:53 +0000

Ken and Murph duke it out over how 1916 should be remembered, there's great news for our New York listeners, Eoin blows up a few myths and we discuss a huge weekend for Connacht sports fans. The GAA's influence on the 1916 Rising is the topic of conversation with Michael Foley, the author of one of our favourite sports books of all time "The Bloodied Field". And we talk about America's relationship with Cuba, and why Barack Obama attending a baseball game in the aftermath of the Brussels attacks could have been an avoidable PR mis-step. 24/3/16

Born loser Ranieri, Spurs cling on, Pep's summer sale, Klopp V Benteke

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Mon, 21 Mar 2016 15:04:57 +0000

Eoin, Ken and Ciaran talk about Alan Pardew's happiness for Claudio Ranieri, Big Sam's football face, Jurgen Klopp's lack of chemistry with Christian Benteke, and another unexpected, timely triumph for Louis van Gaal. Jack Pitt-Brooke compares Spurs' prospects over the next few weeks with those of Leicester. And John Brewin joins us to discuss the huge job confronting Pep Guardiola at Manchester City this summer.

Ireland's southern hemisphere leap, Sexton appeal, Cork crisis

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Mon, 21 Mar 2016 13:56:09 +0000

Ireland finish mid-table in this year's Six Nations, but what will the report card say? Shane Horgan and Mattie Williams see an Ireland team that hasn't progressed a whole lot, and a fixture list coming down the tracks that leaves little margin for error. Cork hurling has had a dark spring - 5 games in the League, and 5 defeats. Eoin Kelly describes it as a team in crisis. Plus there's rugby's moral high ground, lovely Leicester, and why twitter is now a glorified football website.

Coutinho cuts deepest, Fellaini's elbows, proactive Pep, PSV's shame

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Fri, 18 Mar 2016 14:58:13 +0000

Eoin, Ken and Ciaran discuss Fellaini's elbows, proactive Pep, the dark side of Liverpool - Man United rivalry, PSV's shame and Klopp's confidence flower. Jonathan Wilson joins us to analyse Liverpool's win at Old Trafford and tries to figure out why Louis van Gaal keeps picking Fellaini. Plus there's a Nigerian FA update, plucky outsiders Man City and why the Champions League QF's are becoming a bit like the All Ireland Football QF's. 18/3/16

Fearing the Scots, Joe Marler saga, Breen Bros Paddy's Day delight, Mayo's Croker crisis

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Fri, 18 Mar 2016 13:26:01 +0000

Liam Neeson's Antrim street cred, grown men with green eyebrows, the education of young Jimmy Nesbitt and Breen Bros big day out in Croker - welcome to our Second Captains Saint Podcast Day Special! Eddie O'Sullivan talks to us about the Joe Marler incident, what a farce the Six Nations disciplinary committee has been this year, and why Ireland shouldn't fear Scotland. Plus Limerick star David Breen tells us what it's like to wake up as an All-Ireland club hurling final winner, and Oisin McConville analyses the football final. 18/3/16

Special Edition Emmanuel Petit Bonus Podcast

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Tue, 15 Mar 2016 17:42:26 +0000

Second Captains are excited to present a special edition BONUS podcast - French World Cup winner Emmanuel Petit was in Dublin today on behalf of Carlsberg and Eoin and Ken caught up with him to talk football, politics and social networking...

Ireland in bloom, Zebo's spring, Victoria Pendleton, ridiculous Roscommon

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Mon, 14 Mar 2016 15:24:54 +0000

Ireland finally cut loose against a terrible Italy team - what did we learn about the players and the gameplan, and how big a threat do a buoyant Scotland pose to Joe Schmidt's team? Shane Jennings and Gerry Thornley are in studio. As Cheltenham cranks up, we discuss former track cyclist Victoria Pendleton's rapid rise as an amateur jockey. Plus there's the reason why Ken can't dance, a pregnant Eoin McDevitt, and the pig farming fiascos that link Johann Cruyff and Saint Patrick. 14/3/16

Giggys time, Fergie's PL predicitons, Wenger farce, Nadal and Madrid

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Mon, 14 Mar 2016 13:06:52 +0000

Eoin, Ken and Ciaran discuss Max Kruse's bad night in Berlin, Fergie's title race predictions, FA Cup goooaals, and Real Madrid's impassioned defence of Rafael Nadal. Andrew Mangan joins us in studio to talk about a miserable run for Arsenal that even Wenger has been forced to describe as a "farce". And Miguel Delaney was at Old Trafford yesterday to see Dmitri Payet score one of the great free-kicks of recent years. 14/3/16

Ireland struggling under Schmidt, M Williams/Horgan debate, US Murph on Trump

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Thu, 10 Mar 2016 18:25:51 +0000

Three games in and Ireland are still looking for their first win in the 6 Nations - we've heard from Matt Williams and Shane Horgan throughout the competition, both of them have strong opinions on what we've been doing right, and wrong, so far, and they're on together to debate the direction we're taking under Joe Schmidt. US Murph tells us what the hell is going on with Donald Trump, and we talk live for the first time to one of our beloved scumbag emailers. Plus there's Sharapova, Kenz Friendz and Murph's beef with Sean O'Brien. 10/3/16

The Mother of all Matches, caring Klopp, blanked Blatter

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Thu, 10 Mar 2016 14:53:36 +0000

Ken and Ciaran talk about the mother of all games, handsy Jurgen Klopp, Pochettino's dilemma and why everyone is blanking Blatter. Jonathan Wilson joins us to talk about the end of Chelsea's Champions League era. And Rory Smith analyses whether Newcastle really is the right move for Rafael Benitez. 10/3/16

McGregor taps out, Connacht's new breed, Schmidt options, GAA bloodbath

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Mon, 07 Mar 2016 17:49:48 +0000

"Everyone has a plan until they get a punch in the face", said Mike Tyson, and the Conor McGregor plan for world domination was rocked to its core by Nate Diaz on Saturday night - Jeremy Botter of Bleacher Report joins the lads. We discuss how Connacht rugby have become the Leicester City of the Pro-12, and what options Joe Schmidt has for the Italy game. Plus we talk finger-bending blood-baths, Eoin's tap-out record, Diaz's smack talk, and there's a Jimmy Nesbitt update. 7/3/16

Leicester's to lose, North London choke-off, money don't work

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Mon, 07 Mar 2016 14:38:58 +0000

Ken and Ciaran are beginning to come around to the idea that Leicester might actually be about to do this. Also up for discussion - LVG's numbers game and why the money don't work. Tony Barrett joins us to talk about the takeover at Everton and Liverpool's form going into the Europa League tie against Man United. And Michael Walker talks to us about Ashley's misrule at Newcastle. 7/3/16

Premier League Pile Up, Leicester unscathed, rich kid in the arcade

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Thu, 03 Mar 2016 13:13:23 +0000

Eoin, Ken and Ciaran discuss the mindless chaos of the Premier League title race after a midweek pile-up that left Leicester looking more nailed-on than ever. Richard Sadlier has had a chance to look at Arsenal up close and he's come to some disturbing conclusions about Arsene Wenger's side. Plus there's the rich kid at the arcade, the West Ham have nots, and the end of the PL world.

Beefcake McGregor, greatest ever, tackling schools rugby, Trump and golf

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Thu, 03 Mar 2016 12:05:48 +0000

US Murph joins us to tell us about the sports event from the last week that is 'the greatest thing that's ever happened', while Conor McGregor piles on the pounds in preparation for his first fight at welterweight. We discuss Donald Trump and his cosy relationship with the power-brokers of golf, and proposals in the UK to ban tackling in schools rugby. There's also General Haig counting his dead, stingy PBESOers, and Ken's dry eye sockets.

Winless Ireland, rugby's dangerous game, GAA's mark, Curry zone

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Mon, 29 Feb 2016 15:08:32 +0000

Still no win for Ireland in the 6 Nations championship this year - Gerry Thornley and Shane Jennings are in studio to give us their verdicts on a fourth game in a row where we had chances to win, and failed to take them. The mark is now a part of Gaelic football, and we talk to Karol Mannion about how this will affect how the game is played (if at all). And there's the omnipresent James Nesbitt, the Steph Curry zone, Carl Frampton's profile 'down South', and what Gay Byrne needs to do to boost his numbers 'up North'.

Rashford Files, Wenger money, Pellegrini the man, CR7's pals

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Mon, 29 Feb 2016 12:29:31 +0000

Eoin, Ken and Ciaran talk about promise-keeping Manuel Pellegrini, risk-taking Claudio Ranieri, and team-mate-under-the-bus-throwing Cristiano Ronaldo. Jonathan Wilson joins us to discuss Manchester United's injury-driven renaissance and whether Rashford is as good as his scoring record suggests. And Joshua Robinson of the Wall Street Journal fills us on on the implications of Gianni Infantino's election as FIFA President. 29/2/16

Joe picks youth, Jones stirs Sexton pot, McGregor Illustrated, Frampton Quigg

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Thu, 25 Feb 2016 16:58:53 +0000

Ireland-England is the main event this weekend, and Ireland have given first caps to 2 of our brightest stars... but is Twickenham the place for Josh Van Der Flier and Stuart McCloskey to make a big splash? Ugo Monye and Gerry Thornley aid with the pre-match build-up. We discuss warm beer at The Emirates, boxing coaches that straight up don't like each other, good little un's, and Conor McGregor's Sports Illustrated cover story. Plus former world champ Bernard Dunne looks ahead to Carl Frampton's fight against Scott Quigg on Saturday night.

The Patcast - Patrick Kluivert on Ajax 95, facing Ireland, Van Gaal

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Thu, 25 Feb 2016 15:38:44 +0000

It's the Patcast, as we give you our interview with Patrick Kluivert in London before the first leg of the Arsenal-Barcelona Champions League last-16 tie this week. Ken outlines the smoke-and-mirrors with our live audience, before Kluivert tells us about being the youngest player to score in a Champions League final for Ajax in 1995, putting an end to the team that Jack built in Anfield in November 1995 and the future for Van Gaal.

Football democracy, FIFA game, Conte's past, the Chelsea way

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Thu, 25 Feb 2016 14:47:55 +0000

Eoin, Ken and Ciaran ponder FIFA's presidential messaging toolkit, and give their views on who should take over the country. Does democracy even work? Gabriel Marcotti reports from Zurich as FIFA prepare to elect a new President. And Terry Daley gives his verdict on whether Antonio Conte is the right man to take over at Chelsea.

Twickenham dreams, the non rivalry rivalry, future of sports entertainment

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Mon, 22 Feb 2016 16:22:35 +0000

Ireland's dreams of a third Six Nations title may lie in tatters, our players may be ailling or injured, but we have the remedy for your February blues... as Shane Horgan talks us through the try that changed his life. Malachy Clerkin and 2010 All Ireland winner Shane McGrath debate whether Tipperary and Kilkenny can even be called a rivalry anymore. And we have the future of sports entertainment, Jerry Flannery potty-talk and the importance of blind panic. 22/2/16

Mourinho's orchestrated campaign, Pellegrini chickens out, smack talkin' refs

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Mon, 22 Feb 2016 12:50:54 +0000

Eoin, Ken and Ciaran regard the FA Cup fifth round fixtures with despondency, on a weekend when most of the talking points were provided by various teams abusing referees. Jonathan Wilson joins us to fulminate against Manuel Pellegrini's chickening out of the contest against Chelsea. And Miguel Delaney tries to make some sense of the swirl of rumours surrounding Manchester United and Jose.

Audio wars Pt.II, multi talented Galvin, Manning image, rugby's licence to ill

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Thu, 18 Feb 2016 19:26:06 +0000

It's on. Eoin and Ken preside over 8 Mile Audio Wars part 2. Evan Flynn is back to take another shot at Second Captains. With the stakes higher than ever who is truly strongest? Crush! Tonight. US Murphy joins us to talk about Peyton Manning's dirty little secret emerging into the full glare of the post-Superbowl media spotlight. And Louise Galvin of the Irish Women's Rugby Sevens team joins us to talk about the Rio Olympics, being talented at three different sports and the one party Irish people are late to.

Ronaldo flex, Rooney's knee, poison pen, Barca the Real thing

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Thu, 18 Feb 2016 15:32:06 +0000

Eoin and Ken discuss Dunphy's support for Ronaldo, Rooney's knee, and respond to poison pen letters from audience guttersnipes. John Brewin joins us to discuss the stories surrounding a possible move to China for Rooney. And Dermot Corrigan analyses Rafael Benitez's case for why Barcelona are better than Real Madrid.

Ireland battered, Joe's plan, club joy, I fink you freaky, Lescott's tweet

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Mon, 15 Feb 2016 15:38:20 +0000

Our chances of a third Six Nations championship in a row disappeared under the weight of a French scrum, and we're joined by regular analyst Shane Horgan and former Ireland and Leinster flanker Shane Jennings to discuss whether our players need to show more initiative in big games. 15/2/16 Barry Moran inspired his Castlebar Mitchels team to victory over Crossmaglen on Saturday. We ask him about the final, how much fun the club game is to play, and how it could damage his chances with Mayo. Plus there's sleeping through the last 10 minutes of a Six Nations game, musical suggestions from our listenership, and Joleon Lescott's miraculous pocket-dial.

Wenger's faith, Spurs' cyborgs, Hart's games, Messi's sculptures

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Mon, 15 Feb 2016 13:06:39 +0000

Eoin, Ken and Ciaran discuss the ethics of Lionel Messi's penalty assist, Joe Hart's faulty mind games, and the likelihood of Leicester City resisting the pressure of the run-in. Jonathan Wilson was there to see Spurs' cyborg terminators storm the Etihad. And Jack Pitt-Brooke analyses Arsenal's win over the league leaders. 15/02/16

Ire V Fra preview, Paul's future in coaching, Jamie Cudmore, GOLF PARTY!

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Thu, 11 Feb 2016 16:52:24 +0000

Ireland travel to France on the second weekend of the 6N, and after all the pessimism before the Wales game, we as a nation appear to be far more chipper this week for a fixture that historically has given us precious little to write home about. Eddie O'Sullivan looks at the Irish line-up, and tells us about Paul O'Connell's future in coaching, while Jamie Cudmore joins us to talk about his battles with the big man. We investigate the possibility of the Irish Open becoming the booziest stop on the European Tour with Lawrence Donegan, plus there's Shane Lowry's crowd-pleasing antics, a listener comes at the king, and Zoolander No.2's impressive running time. 11/02/16

Top 4 clash, Sadlier predicts, Hot Spurs, Liverpool fan power, Fergie seal

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Thu, 11 Feb 2016 12:24:24 +0000

The Premier League big four looks a little different these days, but they meet on Sunday in what could be a defining weekend for all involved. Richie Sadlier is in studio to see if he can continue his white-hot predictions run going. Tony Barrett talks to us about Liverpool's climb-down on ticket prices and whether a precedent has been set for football clubs. There's mention too for Mauricio Pochettino getting the Fergie seal of approval, Sean Dyche's laser-focus in the pub, and the toxic qualities of Ken's seat in the studio. 11/02/2016

Progressive Ireland, Welsh car crash, French defence, Super Bowl

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Mon, 08 Feb 2016 16:08:30 +0000

Given all the pre-match pessimism, Ireland's draw with Wales left many people feeling pretty positive about our chances of winning a third championship in a row. Six Nations legend Shane Horgan and Gerry Thornley poke through the embers of a scintillating game. We ask Don Van Natta Jnr of ESPN if the Peyton Manning (2016 vintage) is the worst ever quarter-back to win the Super Bowl. There's also Martin O'Neill's barnstorming performance on the BBC's NFL coverage, Sergio Parisse's lust for glory, Jamie Roberts' lust for punishment and details on our live show in Dublin later this month - we want you to meet Ajax, Barcelona and Holland legend Patrick Kluivert!

Leicester Gestalt, platonic footballer love, naive Van Gaal, Ajax 1995

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Mon, 08 Feb 2016 14:16:42 +0000

Ken refused to jump aboard the Leicester bandwagon before this weekend, but we now declare them Premier League champions for the 2015-16 season. Emmet Malone charts the rise of Ranieri's side and questions Van Gaal's trust in his employers. We talk to Simon Kuper about the team that defied economics, the Ajax side that won the Champions League in 1995. Plus there's details on our live show in Dublin later this month - we want you to meet Ajax, Barcelona and Holland legend Patrick Kluivert!

The case for Leicester, Neville abroad, China wins, ticket hike strike

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Thu, 04 Feb 2016 15:18:48 +0000

Eoin, Ken and Ciaran talk about the rise of China as a force in the global transfer market, ticket price madness, and the peculiar perils of being a billionaire surrounded by skilled advisers who are keen to help. Richie Sadlier joins us to discuss the likelihood of Leicester holding it together for 14 more games. And Ed Malyon reports from Barcelona, where Gary Neville got caught in the Messi-Suarez crossfire.

Defining success in 6N, Super Bowl 50, Ken Burley, sporliticians

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Thu, 04 Feb 2016 13:19:18 +0000

It's a huge weekend of sport, stretching from the start of the Six Nations to the Superbowl, which will finish up in the early hours of Monday morning. US Murph gives us the latest from the lunacy in San Francisco, host city to Super Bowl 50, while Matt Williams gives us his definition of what success looks like for Ireland over the next 7 weeks. Plus there's kabaddi and Samuel Beckett, politicians pretending to be sports fans, and a birthday return for Ken Burley.

Bonus Second Captains Six Nations Preview Show

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Tue, 02 Feb 2016 11:22:55 +0000

It's an extra-special 6 Nations Preview Podcast, with Ireland on the brink of a third Championship in a row. Its Wales first up for Joe Schmidt's team, a rivalry that brings out the absolute worst in all of us. Shane Horgan and Gerry Thornley tell us why there are reasons to be cheerful about Ireland's prospects despite the World Cup and European Cup woes of recent months. Two time Grand Slam winner Martyn Williams gives us the Welsh perspective, Ken compares rugby to fur coats, and we look at new old England.

Concussion in GAA, Pep-Jose ecosystem, Djokovic GOAT, good losers

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Mon, 01 Feb 2016 16:27:52 +0000

The first weekend of the Allianz National Football League saw the issue of concussion make an unwanted reappearance - Karol Mannion and Oisin McConville join us in studio. Serena Williams was grace personified after her loss in the Australian Open, which leads us to debate what exactly is a good loser. Plus there's the Pep-Jose ecosystem, Fraggle Rock, Terry Wogan and Tony Robbins.

Pep's off to City, Bye Brave John Terry, Delaney's world, Neville's war

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Mon, 01 Feb 2016 14:37:12 +0000

Eoin, Ken and Ciaran talk about the confirmation of Pep's move to Man City and what it means for Man United and Jose. Emmet Malone is in studio to talk about the FAI's decision to unveil their new strategic plan out of the glare of the media. And John Brewin explains why Chelsea have decided now is the time to say goodbye to brave John Terry.

Mo' money, cross pollination in rugby, NFL snuff movie, League is back

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Thu, 28 Jan 2016 16:10:31 +0000

Why contract extensions for Irish rugby players don't always have to go to the brink and why having them played out in the media can have negative side effects. Former Ireland coach Eddie O'Sulllivan thinks there has to be a better way. The Superbowl is coming to San Francisco, and US Murph is ready to welcome sport's biggest party. He talks about Beyonce, Leo Di Caprio, NFL's snuff movie and Cam Newton's plutonium. Plus there's weird dreams, Ken's huge broadcasting IQ, and the start of the Allianz Football League.

Pep's grenades, Leicester getting serious, Pochettino's cold love, tiny United fan

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Thu, 28 Jan 2016 13:59:08 +0000

Eoin (86th in the Irish journalist Twitter power rankings), Ken (18th, second overall in sport) and Ciaran (93rd) discuss motivational speeches, Man United's tiny analyst, and Roberto Martinez's ongoing struggle against heartbreaking refereeing incompetence. Gabriele Marcotti joins us to talk about the reasons why Leicester are top of the table. And Jack Pitt-Brooke explains why Pochettino's counterintuitive brand of tough, cold, ruthless love has forged an unbreakable team spirit at Spurs.

Sexton cleared, captain Hartley, Federer Giggs and longevity, old man NFL

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Mon, 25 Jan 2016 17:45:32 +0000

Jonny Sexton's histories of concussion meant there was a collective intake of breath when he went down after a clash of heads against Wasps on Saturday. Shane Horgan talks to us about communication breakdowns, good news, Marty Moore's departure and captain Hartley. The Australian Open has a new match-fixing controversy to contend with and a QF draw that includes sublime post-peak Roger Federer. Plus there's a report on the Easter Island Premier League, old men getting beaten up for our viewing pleasure in the NFL, and Maurice Fitz, Andre Agassi and the importance of longevity when defining greatness.

LVG's desire, Jose's love letter history, average Arsenal, Lallana's biceps

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Mon, 25 Jan 2016 13:39:42 +0000

Eoin and Ken discuss the two big mistakes that ruined Arsenal's weekend, the conditioning regime that enables Jamie Vardy to flaunt that legendary six-pack, and Jose Mourinho's alleged six-page letter to Manchester United. Jonathan Wilson was at Old Trafford to see the home crowd turn on Louis van Gaal. And James Corbett analyses the chances of Roberto Martinez turning around Everton's disappointing form.

McIlroy Spieth Round 1, Palin McGregor and Fury, Rory the Best, Brady V Manning

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Thu, 21 Jan 2016 15:51:35 +0000

Eoin, Murph and Ken discuss the art of trash talk, the US Republican debates, Conor McGregor's oppressors, and nice guy Rory Best. Rory McIlroy started his 2016 season this week playing alongside Jordan Spieth, in what is the opening salvo of a huge year for the golf, and for the two new superstars of the sport. US Murph talks about the Harlem Globetrotters, Brady V Manning, the greatest throw in history and the NFL championship games

Ireland's football family, Bale value, Mancini calls out, Ronaldo's lats

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Thu, 21 Jan 2016 13:33:39 +0000

Eoin, Ken and Ciaran discuss the FAI's ticket allocation, Ronaldo's lats and Roberto Mancini's calling out of a Serie A colleague. Sid Lowe joins us to talk about Bale's true value, Jorge Mendes, Casillas V De Gea and the impact of Madrid's transfer ban. And Tim Vickery gives his view on Teixeira for Liverpool, Pato for Chelsea and the likely arrival of former Chile boss Jorge Sampaoli in Europe.

Academy V money, Tennis trust, Novak's reveal, GAA championship carcass

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Mon, 18 Jan 2016 16:19:52 +0000

Next up on the corruption merry-go-round... tennis. Match-fixing allegations have erupted on the eve of the Australian Open, hinting at another sport wilfully turning a blind eye to problems at its heart. Munster and Leinster got morale-boosting victories in Europe - Gerry Thornley and Shane Horgan talk about the need for skillful forwards, if the academy system can beat French money and why Munster's problem isn't lack of heart. Plus there's the return of the unloved, unmourned Tommy Murphy Cup, Novak Djokovic's big reveal and a rather surprising mention of Brian McClair's 1991 form-line.

LVG title talk, Klopp's purchase power, Ramsey's truther movement, nice Roberto

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Mon, 18 Jan 2016 14:14:08 +0000

Eoin, Ken and Ciaran wonder why Stoke fans boo Aaron Ramsey for getting his leg broken, and why Liverpool insist on buying expensive centre-forwards who don't fit into their team. Daniel Harris gives us his view on Manchester United's win at Anfield, LVG's title talk and the recent improvement of Wayne Rooney. And Dion Fanning was there to see Roberto Martinez lash the referee out of it again as Everton lost another winning position at Stamford Bridge.

Comparing corruption, Tom Brady's tomatoes, LA money, Creed

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Thu, 14 Jan 2016 17:08:03 +0000

The second half of WADA's report into the IAAF has discovered a systemic failure throughout the organisation... but Seb Coe has managed to dodge criticism from the report's author Dick Pound. We discuss the general lack of beheadings of sports administrators. US Murph talks NFL kickers, the L.A Rams and Patriots hopes, and we speak to British boxer Tony Bellew about his role in the new Rocky movie. Plus there's a Jim Carrey boycott, Tom Brady's tomatoes, and Mrs Huxtable.

The entertainment business, Godly Giroud, LVG tiff, Madrid bans

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Thu, 14 Jan 2016 13:47:32 +0000

Eoin, Ken and Murph talk about Lineker's humour, the best goals of the week, Mick McCarthy's anti-passing possession football, and the implications of Real and Atletico Madrid's transfer bans. On his birthday Richie Sadlier joins us to look back on the midweek football, and examines Van Gaals' latest press conference tiff. Plus there's Messi's evolving torso, defying gravity, Ricky Gervais' monologue and the Sadlier effect.

Foley's future, Ulster's tighrope, McGregor's fighting clan, Sean Penn's flatulence

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Mon, 11 Jan 2016 16:18:42 +0000

Anthony Foley questioned his own future as head coach in the aftermath of a dispiriting loss away to Stade Francais yesterday - Mattie Williams and Gerry Thornley try and apportion blame as their season goes from bad to worse. On the day the Ballon d'Or winner is announced, we speak to our good friend Oluwishina Okeleji about the African Player of the Year award, which was not won by Yaya Toure, to the disgust of... Yaya Toure. And there's the history of the fighting clan McGregor, David Bowie, El Chapo and Sean Penn's flatulence.

Spain micro dosing the truth, Master Messi, FA Cup-a-thon, Bale OK

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Mon, 11 Jan 2016 14:38:11 +0000

Eoin and Ciaran sit through Ken's interminable round-up of the weekend's FA Cup third round goals, and examine Spain's attitude to doping in sport. Dermot Corrigan joins us to talk about Zinedine Zidane's managerial debut at Real Madrid and Bale's next move. And a tuxedo'd Miguel Delaney reports from Zurich as the Ballon D'Or gala gets underway.

Andy Farrell appointed, going incongnito, Christy's golden moment, Father V Son

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Thu, 07 Jan 2016 15:40:42 +0000

Andy Farrell is Ireland's new defence coach, in a move that came as a complete bolt from the blue. Shane Horgan was critical of his influence on the English coaching ticket during the World Cup, and he gives us his opinion on the possible reasons for his appointment. US Murph talks to us about Johnny Football and the NFL playoffs. Plus there's incognito superstars, Christy O'Connor Junior, the cowardly heavyweight, and Peyton Manning V Al Jazeera.

Mysterious Zizou, wealth breeds conservatism, hamstrings and Churchill, peak Pep

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Thu, 07 Jan 2016 13:35:02 +0000

Eoin, Ken and Ciaran discuss the injury epidemic at Liverpool, where Jürgen Klopp finds himself fighting a war on two fronts against an unholy alliance of Big Sam Allardyce and Big Raymond Verheijen. Gabriele Marcotti joins us to analyse how Premier League wealth has bred conservatism. And Sid Lowe gives us his view on the arrival of Zinedine Zidane as coach of Real Madrid.

New Ireland captain, feel-good GAA, Davy Fitz's resolution, celeb Christmas Mass

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Mon, 04 Jan 2016 15:19:21 +0000

After a hectic Christmas period of inter-provincials, Irish rugby now turns it's attention to picking a new captain - Gerry Thornley and Shane Horgan think the most suitable man isn't either of the three front-runners of Rory Best, Johnny Sexton and Jamie Heaslip. The GAA season also crept back into life this weekend, and Michael Foley of the Sunday Times has a feel-good story of where the money goes from the Leinster Council's January warm-ups. Plus there's Davy Fitzgerald's New Year's Resolution, darts fever, and Ken's celebrity rugby Christmas mass.

New Year goals, chilled Stones, Carroll V gravity, Spurs' credentials, the dead Pool

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Mon, 04 Jan 2016 12:52:56 +0000

Eoin, Ken and Ciaran discuss a weekend of phenomenal goals and whether Andy Carroll can ever overcome the challenges posed by gravity. Tony Barrett joins us to talk about Spurs' title credentials and John Stones' chilled-out penalty-box defending. And Dion Fanning was there to see West Ham complete a first league double over Liverpool in 52 years.

New Year's Eve Auld Lang Syne Hogmanay Hootenanny Special

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Wed, 30 Dec 2015 21:25:23 +0000

Ring in the New Year with Eoin, Murph, Ken and Richie - its the Second Captains New Year's Eve Auld Lang Syne Hogmanay Hootenanny Special. We talk to Richie Sadlier about his bizarre experience the night Ireland beat Germany, his hopes for Euro 2016 and whether we can trust James McClean. Plus there's scum email of the year, hugging strangers, the time Paul Kimmage told Ken to stop smoking, Martin V Michael O'Neill, and SHANE LONG....BAH!

Van Gaal defiance, Easy for Ozil, Spurs title talk, calm Walters, Obama and Bear

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Tue, 29 Dec 2015 11:16:58 +0000

Eoin and Ken talk about Stoke City's super-awesome Christmas, Roberto Martinez's fondness for finger-pointing, and Louis van Gaal's tendency to misspeak himself. Jonathan Wilson tells us whether we're seeing the emergence of a third great Arsene Wenger Arsenal side. Plus there's the huge Cadbury's Roses controversy, U2 in Paris, Obama and Bear Grylls, calm Walters, Jose Man United scarves, Matic's miss, Ken's prediction for the Premier League, and the art of the footballer apology.

Second Captains Christmas Sports Pudding 2015

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Wed, 23 Dec 2015 22:22:10 +0000

We have once again retired to our winter retreat (a remote log cabin) along with our many horses and wolves, to produce a very special Christmas Eve show - the Second Captains Christmas Sports Pudding. We talk to the most festive and cheerful man we know, Brian Murphy, about an incredible Super Bowl story that involves Ernest Hemingway, Steve Young, a hobo, Key West, and how Brian met his wife. Plus there's an unwelcome guest, the Murph and Mackie awards, the art of shameless plugs, and KEN SINGS OUT THE SHOW!

New look Ireland, Ulster shine a light, Andy Lee's decision, Lance's love

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Mon, 21 Dec 2015 15:23:35 +0000

Ulster are winning pretty, and they're doing it with brilliant young Irish players. Gerry Thornley speculates on a potential new-look Irish team, analyses Munster's white line fever and Leinster's new Pro 12 vista. Andy Lee lost his WBO middleweight belt with a heart-breaking defeat to Billy Joe Saunders on Saturday night. We ask Bernard Dunne what Andy's options are now. Plus there's Lance Armstrong's love of drugs, light sabre-wielding adults, pancake arses and McGuffins.

Louis on the brink, loyal Giggs, Jose TV, Pep's way, Sepp's sorrow

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Mon, 21 Dec 2015 12:38:05 +0000

Eoin, Ken and Ciaran discuss Sepp Blatter's sorrow, Louis van Gaal's candour and Jose Mourinho's irresistible attraction to football executives who know nothing about football but a lot about TV ratings. John Brewin analyses the chances of Jose Mourinho becoming the next manager of Manchester United. And Raphael Honigstein gives us the reaction from Germany where Pep Guardiola has confirmed that he will leave FC Bayern at the end of the season.

Jose gets the sack, limitations of charisma, management and mental health

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Thu, 17 Dec 2015 16:22:45 +0000

Eoin, Ken and Murph discuss Jose getting the sack, the mask slipping, the limitations of charisma, his future employability, and the incredible number of mistakes he's made in half a season. Michael Calvin has written the football book of the year, it's called "Living on the Volcano", and it tells the life of an English football manager. He joins us on the line to discuss Rodgers' crown, Garry Monk's sunken eyes and how damaging the job is to your mental health.

Sports Books Special, Andy Lee on his title defence, Sonia sez relax

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Thu, 17 Dec 2015 14:10:53 +0000

It's been a long, long build-up for Andy Lee but his fight with Billy Joe Saunders is finally here - we talk to the reigning WBO middleweight champion of the world about fight week, the traveller angle and going to war. And it's the long-awaited Second Captains Irish Times Christmas Books Podcast, with Malachy Clerkin, where we reveal the best (non-written-by-Second-Captains) book of the sporting year. Plus - tips for slow readers, Sonia sez relax, and we ruminate on how life's a beach and then you die.

Conor McGregor's 13 seconds, Munster and Leinster slide further, body language expert

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Mon, 14 Dec 2015 15:10:56 +0000

This is now Conor McGregor's world, the rest of us just live in it. After his truly spectacular 13-second knockout of Jose Aldo on Saturday night, Ken Early joins us from Las Vegas to give his reaction. And after a weekend that started promisingly with wins for Connacht and Ulster, Munster and Leinster slipped to two more devastating, dispiriting defeats in the European Cup - we talk to Shane Horgan about deeper issues at play. Plus there's Ken's biting critique of the cowboy lifestyle, the Babe Ruth of body language experts and the return of the travelator challenge

Euro draw positives, bolshy Belgians, Klopp goes Kop, jeepers keepers

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Mon, 14 Dec 2015 12:17:32 +0000

We give our reactions to Ireland's Euro 2016 draw, which sees us in with Belgium, Italy and Sweden; none of whom seem to rate us in any way. Emmet Malone was in Paris for the draw and tells of a city adjusting to a new 'normal'. Tony Barrett tells us about the link Jurgen Klopp is trying to forge between his team and their fans. Plus there's boring but bullish Belgians, brilliant goalkeepers, and the Duffer Stephen Hunt dynamic.

The decline and fall of the United empire, a very good night for Arsenal's animal

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Thu, 10 Dec 2015 13:57:58 +0000

Manchester United stand alone as the only English side not to progress to the last 16 of the Champions League - John Brewin asks, are they now where Liverpool were at the start of the 1990s? And after a great night in Europe for Arsenal, Andrew Mangan of Arseblog joins us in studio to discuss if this could be the catalyst for a title charge. Plus there's our dream Euro 2016 draw, which may or may not include being in a group with England.

PBESO SPECIAL - KEN IN VEGAS ON THE MCGREGOR TRAIL, US MURPH, PEARCE HANLEY

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Thu, 10 Dec 2015 13:14:11 +0000

Ken Early reports live from Las Vegas ahead of the Conor McGregor / Jose Aldo UFC bout - and after over a year of build-up, it sounds like everyone (fans, fighters, and Ken) are just anxious for this fight to happen. US Murph tells us about the continuing, bewildering success of his Golden State Warriors, and we talk to Pearce Hanley, the Mayoman who this year played his 100th game of Aussie Rules football with the Brisbane Lions and recently signed a contract to keep him there until 2019.

Munster Losing Ground, Keaney considers retirement, McGregor countdown

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Mon, 07 Dec 2015 14:17:47 +0000

Munster are still third in the Pro 12, and have won the only game they have played so far in Europe, but Anthony Foley isn't content. Gerry Thornley investigates what has the munster coach so unhappy. Ballyboden won their first ever Leinster club title yesterday, powered by Dublin hurler, and one-time footballer, Conal Keaney. He talks celebrations, being underestimated, and the big decision he has to make about his inter-county future. Plus there's Ken's chimpanzee advice for Conor McGregor, Mike Tyson, and old grampa Rooney and his Werthers Originals.

Flaky City, Broken Jose & The Meaning Of Attack

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Mon, 07 Dec 2015 13:39:31 +0000

Eoin and Ken talk about a bizarre weekend in the League Nobody Wants to Win (except Leicester). Meanwhile Nicklas Bendtner is tired of people thinking he is somehow unserious, but continues to dress as though he's on holiday in the Hamptons in the 1920s. Miguel Delaney was at Stoke to see Europe's flakiest big club, Manchester City, drop another three points. And watching Louis van Gaal's Manchester United has got Jonathan Wilson wondering what "attack" really means.

Sporting perfection, pundit to coach, McGregor's PED fears, Olympic virus

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Thu, 03 Dec 2015 14:43:44 +0000

This week's topics of discussion with US Murph - sporting perfection is reality, the Messi of the NBA and how to break your sport. What do flesh-eating viruses tell us about Brazilian society and Rio 2016? Ewan McKenna joins us from Belo Horizonte. And there's Conor McGregor's concerns over Brazilian drug-testing, Jonny Wilkinson's double-jobbing, and how Ken's family defeated the Royal Navy.

Neville blurs the lines, Liverpool's blitzkrieg, FIFA's dawn raid hotel of choice

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Thu, 03 Dec 2015 13:22:55 +0000

Ken and Murph discuss Gary Neville's appointment at Valencia. Will he be the first graduate of the Fergie school not to be quite a disappointing manager? Meanwhile FIFA are planning to bloat the World Cup to even more ungainly proportions. Sid Lowe tells us a bit about the situation Neville is arriving into at Valencia. And Tony Barrett tries to explain how Jurgen Klopp has transformed Liverpool in two short months.

Classy Connacht, ROG's next move, Fury's world view, cold Crossmaglen

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Mon, 30 Nov 2015 15:49:42 +0000

Is it time for us to hail Tyson Fury, Irish heavyweight champion of the world? His views on homosexuality, abortion and paedophilia were outlined in stark terms long before he defeated Wladimir Klitschko on Saturday night - we speak to renowned author and journalist Donald McRae. Connacht are the form team in Ireland right now, and after a dominating win over Munster in Thomond Park on Saturday night, Gerry Thornley tells us how long they can stay top of the Pro 12. Plus there's extreme cold in Crossmaglen, the chiropractor, and how to separate off-field flaws from on-field achievement.

Pep to Man City or Man Utd, Vardy skeletons, Towell off, Costa's bib

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Mon, 30 Nov 2015 13:18:49 +0000

Eoin and Ken put themselves in Pep Guardiola's shoes. Which Manchester club would they rather manage? Richie Towell's move to Brighton and Diego Costa's bib also feature. Jonathan Liew joins us to discuss why he feels the celebrated Jamie Vardy has gotten off lightly for his racist abuse of a man in a casino. And Graham Hunter tells us why Guardiola is the essential appointment Manchester United must move heaven and earth to make.

Grumblings in Old Trafford, Klopp's kids, Scholes knows, super Barca

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Thu, 26 Nov 2015 15:21:01 +0000

Eoin and Ken talk about the midweek Champions League, the grumblings at Old Trafford, the worst way to win a match 4-3, and the cultification of Klopp. Gabriele Marcotti joins us to give his views on what's happening to LVGMUFC. Why are the former United players in the media so grumpy?

Sports Annual launch, All Ireland football team utopia/dystopia, Grealish's pout

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Thu, 26 Nov 2015 14:19:48 +0000

Eoin, Ken and Ciaran present a special edition of the podcast - a recording of the live show in the Grand Social to launch the Second Captains Sports Annual. They're joined on stage by Oisin McConville, Richie Sadlier and historian Cormac Moore to discuss the idea of an All-Ireland football team. Why do we have two separate Irish teams in football when most sports only have one for the whole island? What are the barriers standing in the way of a football reunification? How do people feel about the idea? Plus there's Grealish's pout, Ken's All Time team, and doodles.

Irish flounder in Europe, Rory and GMac excel, athletic manslaughter

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Mon, 23 Nov 2015 15:07:33 +0000

This has the potential to be a long, fruitless campaign for the Irish provinces in Europe - Denis Hickie and Gerry Thornley discuss another two defeats for Leinster and Ulster. He may have had the worst year of his golfing career, but Graeme McDowell has managed to turn it around in impressive style, with a win last Monday followed up yesterday by a third place finish on the PGA Tour. We talk about one of Ireland's soundest sportspeople with Lawrence Donegan. Plus there's hurling attempting to break America, athletic manslaughter and Coutinho playing a little too well for Liverpool.

Liverpool's Brazilian fusion, Madrid's principles, dumbest man in football

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Mon, 23 Nov 2015 13:32:22 +0000

Eoin, Ken and Murph talk about El Clashico, the two hours of incredible football on Saturday night played out in Madrid and Manchester. Dermot Corrigan joins us to pick over the bones of Real Madrid's humbling at the hands of Barcelona. And John Brewin was there to see Manuel Pellegrini rage like Lear on the heath after Liverpool tore his team to pieces.

Madrid politics, Dele Alli sabotage, Ronaldo love bombed, King Zlatan

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Thu, 19 Nov 2015 14:45:04 +0000

Eoin, Ken and Ciaran talk about football parables, and the sabotage of the Dele Alli transfer. We're joined by the editor-in-chief of Offside magazine, Anders Bengtsson, to talk about Zlatan's role in changing the Swedish international team and even Swedish society. And Sid Lowe gives us his thoughts on the swirl of political intrigue at Real Madrid ahead of this weekend's Clasico.

Lomu's nature V nurture, 'hit dem folks', Italia 90 PBESO, Galway hurling

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Thu, 19 Nov 2015 13:33:57 +0000

The death of Jonah Lomu has been mourned worldwide - we speak to Matt Williams about the triumph of nature over nurture. US Murph is back, talking to us about excessive NFL celebrations, the state of American sports broadcasting, and Elvis on Ed Sullivan... all from the patio of his suite at the Ritz Carlton in Hawaii. Plus there's the danger with helicopters, Anthony Cunningham, a very special Italia 90-themed PBESO, Richie McCaw stats, and an intriguing peek into Ken Early's early life.

BONJOUR EURO 2016, Aviva Stadium fun, Ireland's next generation

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Tue, 17 Nov 2015 11:31:55 +0000

Welcome to our Euro 2016 bonus podcast! Eoin, Ken and Murph talk about the star players, the job Martin O'Neill and Roy Keane have done, Super Victor the 2016 mascot, and how the Aviva Stadium has become a fun place to go watch a football game. We catch up with Richie Sadlier and Dion Fanning to get their thoughts on a memorable campaign and hear from MOTM Robbie Brady and master of ceremonies Robbie Keane. Plus we ponder which amazing French city we would like to visit, levitating fans, Ken's visit to Roma II and why things ended badly between Snap, Crackle and Pop.

Leinster's lowest ebb, Relentless Cork, Ronda KO, Zebo future

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Mon, 16 Nov 2015 15:17:44 +0000

The 33-6 defeat at home to Wasps on Sunday was Leinster's most damaging defeat in European Cup history, and immediately casts their future in this year's competition in doubt. Gerry Thornley talks Leo Cullen, Simon Zebo's future and Munster's emotional trip to Stade Francais next Sunday. The Cork ladies footballers are Ireland's most dominant team, having won 10 All-Irelands in 11 years, and journalist Mary White has played with them, reported on them, and has now authored the first book on an Irish female sports team. Plus there's Leo the Lion getting punked, Ronda Rousey getting knocked out, and empathy-free rugby club chairmen.

Ire V Bosnia Part II, psychology of terrorism at sporting events, coach Robbie

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Mon, 16 Nov 2015 12:33:40 +0000

Eoin, Ken and Ciaran talk about the psychology of terrorist attacks on sporting events. Simon Kuper joins us from Paris to reflect on the city's nightmarish weekend and future implications. And Miguel Delaney analyses Ireland's chances of finishing the job against Bosnia.

Contenders in Europe, sportsman of the year, England's leak, TV3 6N deal

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Thu, 12 Nov 2015 13:36:32 +0000

Michael Conlan is our first ever male world boxing champion, a fact overshadowed in recent weeks by the Billy Walsh farrago. We went to the National Stadium to talk to our choice as Irish Sports Personality of the Year about turning pro, Rio, and the Conor McGregor template. The English Rugby World Cup farce shows no sign of losing momentum - with Sam Burgess on his way back to rugby league, and players embroiled in a financial controversy, Shane Horgan talks to us from London. Plus Murph quotes Garth from Wayne's World, we have Jim McGuinness' Good Wall choices, swing confidence, and TV3's Six Nations coup.

Euro 2016 playoff hopes, confident Irish footballers, Planes trains automobiles

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Thu, 12 Nov 2015 12:06:16 +0000

The reaction to Ireland getting Bosnia in our Euro 2016 qualification play-off was cautious optimism - but with injuries and suspensions taking a heavy toll, many Irish fans would take any result tomorrow night that gives us a fighting chance on Monday evening at the Aviva. Ken talks to us from Heathrow, and we have Richie Sadlier in studio ahead of another seismic few days for the Ireland football team. Missed flights, bullet-proof self-confidence and phenomenal d******** also feature prominently.

Killing sport, WADA and the Wolf, Leo's Leinster, GAA fixture lunacy

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Mon, 09 Nov 2015 16:58:23 +0000

WADA have recommended that Russia be banned from international athletics in an extraordinary story which leads all the way to the cabinet of the Russian government. David Epstein, author of 'The Sports Gene' gives us his reaction. Gerry Thornley looks ahead to the start of the European Champions Cup, and we talk mighty Russian sturgeons, an inconvenient draw in Kerry, and whether the last two months of 2015 could finally kill off sport altogether.

Ronaldo week, Chelsea's sacking culture, Van Gaal self praise

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Mon, 09 Nov 2015 13:58:17 +0000

Eoin, Ken and Murph talk about Cristiano Ronaldo - who this week finds himself the subject of an authorised film spectacular, and an unauthorised biography. Would he have been better off remaining at Manchester United? And which animal has he come to resemble? Jonathan Wilson tries to explain why Chelsea suddenly seem so reluctant to sack their manager. It's never been a problem for them before. And Kieran Canning joins us from Spain to discuss the departure of David Moyes from Real Sociedad.

The Baron's boo boo, watching sport in pubs, Web Summit's wanderly wagon, return of 'gut' guy

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Thu, 05 Nov 2015 15:37:08 +0000

Eoin, Murph and Ken discuss the Web Summit's wanderly wagon, watching sport in pubs, how to become a Viscount and America's Pepe Reina. US Murph tells us about the Kansas City Royals' World Series party and the return of the 'gut' guy. Plus we talk about the scandal enveloping the IAAF, as a former President is investigated for taking money to suppress positive drug tests.

Democratic Chelsea, Doing a Roy, Ken meets Ian Ayre, Somali Pirates, Viking Tattoos

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Thu, 05 Nov 2015 13:58:20 +0000

Eoin, Ken and Ciaran discuss Somali pirates, Viking tattoos and delve into the deathless memory banks of the internet to analyse Jose Mourinho's love-hate relationship with the Chelsea fans. Richie Sadlier joins us in studio to discuss dressing-room treachery and whose criticism to take seriously. And Ken interviewed Liverpool CEO Ian Ayre at the Web Summit.

Jim McGuinness' memoir, NZ V the world, outspoken caddy, POC's recovery

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Mon, 02 Nov 2015 14:40:47 +0000

Jim McGuinness' new memoir has already attracted its first controversy, with current Donegal manager Rory Gallagher hotly refuting Jim's version of the events that led to Gallagher's leaving the backroom staff under McGuinness in late 2013. Can high-profile number 2's ever work, and should we sit back and open the popcorn ahead of Davy Fitzgerald and Donal Og Cusack's partnership with Clare next year? Shane Horgan gives us his thoughts on another World Cup triumph for New Zealand, and Ireland's RWC 2023 bid. We discuss Steve Williams and his unique view on the role of golf caddy, Big Sam's disciplinarian dad and Jose Mourinho's mental walls.

Strange times at Chelsea, Liverpool belief, super Leicester, boring United

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Mon, 02 Nov 2015 12:51:04 +0000

Eoin and Ken discuss the weekend's Premier League. Vardy and Mahrez continue to rip it up while the walls close in on Jose. Dion Fanning was there to see Liverpool's 3-1 win at the Bridge. And John Brewin joins us to discuss whether Manchester United's goalscoring problems lie with the players or the philosophy.

Sepp's casual bombshells, Scholes V LVG, Rafa's image, Ronaldo the movie

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Thu, 29 Oct 2015 14:38:05 +0000

Eoin, Ken and Ciaran talk about Sepp Blatter's Russian interview, Michel Platini's courtly metaphors and Paul Scholes' ongoing onslaught against Louis van Gaal's revolution. Gabriele Marcotti joins us to discuss Blatter's revelations. And Sid Lowe talks to us about the contrasting images of Rafael Benitez and Cristiano Ronaldo

World Cup final woe, killing rugby, Dub Sub, Big Sam's dress

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Thu, 29 Oct 2015 13:26:34 +0000

It's World Cup final weekend, and against all our better judgement we're very excited. Mattie Williams is in studio, and we try to forget that there hasn't yet been a good showpiece game since this tournament began in 1987. John Leonard joins us to talk about his new book "Dub Sub Confidential" - from sexual abuse as a child, to a spell in his life in his early twenties when he went completely off the rails, to a stint behind Stephen Cluxton as Dublin goalkeeper under Pillar Caffrey, it's an amazing story. Plus there's plucky underdog NZ killing rugby as a sport, Big Sam's dress, and Ken's love for David Pocock.

Donal Og and Davy Fitz, learning from RWC 2015, Eliud and Eoin's marathons

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Mon, 26 Oct 2015 17:09:36 +0000

Proud finisher Eoin McDevitt, fresh from the Dublin Marathon, takes the helm for a discussion with last year's marathon winner Eliud Too, who tells us how he spent his winnings and why he named his two cows Ken Early and Ciaran Murphy. Gerry Thornley and Shane Horgan try and fail to avoid talking about Ireland while reviewing the weekend's Rugby World Cup semi-finals. And there's Eoin's Foghorn Leghorn physique, Donal Og Cusack joining Clare, and a 20,000 word thesis on what we've learned from RWC 2015.

Rooney pity talk, Jose's dignity, Big Sam can, Klopp's smile

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Mon, 26 Oct 2015 14:33:40 +0000

Ken and Ciaran talk about committee dialogue and the difficulty of sticking by the courage of your convictions. There is also some Wayne Rooney pity-talk. Miguel Delaney was at Upton Park to see Jose Mourinho lose his dignity in the director's box. And Michael Walker saw Sunderland continue their astonishing winning streak against Newcastle United.

Manchester derby, fan unity, Ken's Marseille years, running and running

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Thu, 22 Oct 2015 13:35:56 +0000

We were live in the Sugar Club for a show in association with our sponsors Rabo Direct, and we were joined for a chat by Brian Kerr and Emmet Malone - on the agenda was Ireland's upcoming playoff with Bosnia, Jurgen Klopp and priced-out football fans. Plus there's an excerpt from Ken Early - The Marseilles Years, and a chat with John Brewin on the Manchester derby this week.

Live and sexy with Second Captains, Irish rugby cadaver, David O'Doherty superfan

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Thu, 22 Oct 2015 12:29:19 +0000

We got live and slightly dangerous in the Sugar Club last night, with sexy results. The Irish rugby cadaver is dissected by Liam Toland and Shane Jennings, and comedy superstar David O'Doherty joined us on stage to explain that he is the lion of the Irish sports superfan jungle.

Bosnia and Herzegovina threat, Klopp's first game, dirge addiction, hatin' on rugby

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Mon, 19 Oct 2015 15:20:12 +0000

Eoin, Ken and Ciaran discuss Ireland's sad addiction to a certain dreary dirge that has become an infallible portent of doom. Meanwhile Jose Mourinho adds another pile of winger bones to his boneyard. Football man Dion Fanning joins us to try to understand why Ireland's rugby heartbreak pleased many football men. And Jonathan Wilson was at White Hart Lane to see Jürgen Klopp's managerial debut in the Premier League

Irish Rugby wake, poaching Joe, Scots misery, Billy Walsh gone

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Mon, 19 Oct 2015 14:31:28 +0000

Ireland have fallen short again – Shane Horgan and the lads talk through another heartbreaking, deflating defeat at a Rugby World Cup. Billy Walsh has left his position as the head coach of the IABA’s High Performance Unit - Bernard Dunne gives his reaction. If that wasn't enough, we talk to the Scots about their heartbreaking defeat to Australia. Plus there's England poaching Joe, Six Nations revisionism, and the fallacy of four year plans.

Ireland V Argentina, RWC QF fatalism, happy Cubs, Diego the saviour

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Thu, 15 Oct 2015 13:46:21 +0000

After three years of build-up to our seismic game against France last Sunday, it seems we barely have time to draw breath before our World Cup quarter-final against Argentina. Matt Williams tries to temper the fatalism, while Diego Albanese, try-scoring hero from Lens in 1999, gives us the Argentinian view. Plus there's US Murph on the Chicago Cubs, Boris Johnson is at it again, and we take a trip to Franno-land.

Playoff contenders, Das Reboot, Klopp's power, reasonable revolutionary

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Thu, 15 Oct 2015 13:00:47 +0000

Eoin and Ken discuss the sensitive soul of Big Sam Allardyce. He bruises easily but he's got a good heart. There is also talk about Brentford and the reasonable-sounding revolutionary who owns them, Matthew Benham. Raphael Honigstein joins us to chat about his book, Das Reboot: How German Football Reinvented Itself and Conquered the World.

Ireland fall short, template from Germany game, Wes mystery, playoff positivity

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Mon, 12 Oct 2015 14:52:32 +0000

Eoin and Ken talk about Ireland's defeat in Warsaw, the Wes mystery, Robbie Brady's best position, playoff positivity, and how the Euro qualification picture looks now. Dion Fanning and Miguel Delaney comb through the wreckage of a nation's dream.

Ireland fillet France, coping with injuries, Sean O'Brien citing nuances

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Mon, 12 Oct 2015 13:29:33 +0000

Super Sunday finished with Ireland safely through to the World Cup quarter-finals in rugby, and our football team consigned to the playoffs... a place we'd have gladly taken 5 months ago, 5 weeks ago, and in truth, even 5 days ago. Shane Horgan gives us his reaction to a brutal, gripping satisfying World Cup win and Gerry Thornley reports from the field hospital that is the Irish camp in Cardiff. Richard Escot of L'Equipe tells us how the French team feel they have betrayed the nation, and Ken is fresh off the plane from Warsaw.

Ireland 1-0 Germany - Emotional Second Captains Special

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Fri, 09 Oct 2015 11:09:49 +0000

A joyous, stunned and emotional podcast celebration of Ireland's 1-0 win over Germany with Eoin, Ken and Murph. Also includes hugs with strangers, Ken getting harassed by a 9 month old baby, why we love Shane Long so much, and why Stephen Ward's performance against Port Vale was a clear sign he would shut out Thomas Muller.

France V Sexton, Freddie the flake, Samuel Beckett and Second Captains

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Thu, 08 Oct 2015 15:22:10 +0000

The Ireland France is finally here. Matt Williams and Shane Horgan give us their thoughts on the Sexton, the French media assault, and where it will be won and lost. And as the Ireland football team prepare for a huge couple of days, FIFA has had another turbulent day - the latest man in the firing line is Michel Platini. Plus there's Samuel Beckett and Second Captains, Eoin's hazy, crazy college days in Belfield and Ken's hatred of motivational speakers.

Ire V Ger, Polish friends, Platini implodes, Klopp coup, Packie

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Thu, 08 Oct 2015 12:18:48 +0000

Eoin, Ken and Ciaran look forward to Ireland v Germany, and discuss the Klopp coup and the implosion of Michel Platini's political career. Richie Sadlier believes Robert Lewandowski's form is Ireland's best hope of qualifying for the playoffs. And Packie Bonner is in studio to talk about his new autobiography.

Rodgers departs, Jose taunts, Arsenal puncture mini Man U bubble

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Mon, 05 Oct 2015 14:27:11 +0000

Eoin and Ken talk about the Premier League title race, which is a bit like watching all your uncles playing Mario Kart. Who will blunder over the line first? Why did Liverpool decide to sack Rodgers now? And what does Jose Mourinho think he's doing? Simon Hughes and Dion Fanning join us to talk about Brendan Rodgers' leaving of Liverpool. And Miguel Delaney was at the Emirates to see Arsenal blow Manchester United away.

Ponderous Ireland into QF, Maradona V Prince Harry, England's fear factor, Rodgers and Me

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Mon, 05 Oct 2015 13:11:43 +0000

We discuss one of the more insane weekends of sport this year - Liverpool FC lost their manager, the Rugby World Cup lost their hosts, Ireland nearly lost to Italy, Jose lost his mind, and Galway look like losing their hurling manager. We ask Denis Hickie and Gerry Thornley if Ireland's performance against Italy was something to worry about or just a road bump on the way to the France game. Plus there's Diego Maradona V Prince Harry, managerial heaves, 4 year plans and Rodgers And Me by Ken Early.

London falling, Manchester England, League of Ireland positivity

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Thu, 01 Oct 2015 15:33:45 +0000

Eoin and Ken discuss the Conroy report on the League of Ireland. Might everything get better if we all stopped being so negative? Meanwhile, Jose Mourinho appears to have a John Terry problem. Gabriele Marcotti joins us to analyse the reasons why English clubs have been so poor in Europe this season. And John Brewin was there on Tuesday to see one of Arsenal's most humiliating ever nights in the Champions League

Ferris power, Mayo upheaval, Ire V Italy, Devin Toner's viscera

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Thu, 01 Oct 2015 14:26:22 +0000

Stephen Ferris is in studio to talk to us about his glittering career, gym V game impact, throwing javelin and why Ireland can go all the way in RWC2015. The Mayo players want their management team out, and in the midst of another GAA civil war, there are no easy ways out. Malachy Clerkin and Mike Finnerty of the Mayo News talk us through the latest chapter in the never-dull history of the county. Plus there's the correlation between lifting weights and being a good rugby player, Cameron from Ferris Bueller's Day Off, and Devin Toner's tightly-packed viscera.

Henry Shefflin, Grealish gone, Bowe Zebo Earls, Mike Brown and the meltdowns

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Mon, 28 Sep 2015 15:53:56 +0000

Henry Shefflin is widely acknowledged as the greatest player in the game's history, and now he has written a great autobiography. He joins us in studio to discuss self doubt, Cody, Cork hurlers and the sports psychologist priest. Ireland are moving serenely through the gears in the rugby World Cup, but England lost in devastating fashion to Wales - Shane Horgan and Gerry Thornley talk us through back three conundrums and Stuart Lancaster's meltdown. Plus there's reaction to Jack Grealish, Murph's love for Kilkenny that dare not speak its name, and a sparkling Mike Brown post-match interview.

Man Utd turnaround, Rodgers blames tools, Steve G sadness, Rafa and Ronaldo

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Mon, 28 Sep 2015 12:46:23 +0000

Eoin and Ken discuss feeding frenzies, Steve G's pus drainage and how September has transformed Premier League expectations. Jonathan Wilson joins us to talk about the outlook for Brendan Rodgers, who says he needs the right tools to do the job. And Dermot Corrigan tries to tell us: what kind of manager do Real Madrid actually want?

Footballers on the edge, Fergie the bore, Pep's office, Lewandowski's Funferpack

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Thu, 24 Sep 2015 15:23:14 +0000

Eoin, Ken and Ciaran discuss Lewandowski's stupendous Fünferpack, Pep's office Iago Aspas' lack of physique and Alex Ferguson's latest - and disappointingly boring - book. Richard Sadlier joins us to talk about Diego Costa, Dennis Wise and the rights and wrongs of "playing on the edge". And Michiel Jongsma brings us up to date on a feud between two legendary Dutch football men who straight up don't get along.

England's RWC panic, Ireland's offloads, Rowdy Ronda Rousey

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Thu, 24 Sep 2015 13:53:14 +0000

For all of Conor McGregor's global appeal, the biggest star in the UFC right now is Ronda Rousey. She's sold out the 70,000 seater Etihad Stadium in Melbourne for her next fight. We discuss her unique marketing mix. It was a good couple of days there, but the age of the little guy in the Rugby World Cup is over. Mattie Williams gives us his impressions of the first week of the tournament. And there's Barry McGuigan's anti-jogging rant, Murph's tricep-less arms, and England's World Cup panic.

Dublin rain, Kerry flop, Japan shock, Ireland cruise

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Mon, 21 Sep 2015 15:36:40 +0000

All-Ireland football final day was a bit of a damp squib this year - Oisin McConville and Micheal Quirke reflect on Dublin's victory and one of the worst big-match displays by a Kerry team in living memory. Ken was at Japan-South Africa in the Rugby World Cup, and he, Shane Horgan and Gerry Thornley talk us through a thrilling opening weekend. Plus there's Ken's letter from Brighton, dream finals, heartfelt apologies, and hulking superstructures.

Everything coming up Man U, Diego Costa's soul, Long's touch

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Mon, 21 Sep 2015 14:05:00 +0000

Eoin, Ken and Ciaran talk about Diego Costa. Is Chelsea's centre forward a soul in pain? Is it time for compassion rather than condemnation? Dion Fanning joins us to analyse Costa's struggle. Paul Doyle was at St Mary's to see Anthony Martial demolish a Premier League defence for the second week running.

Dubs Kerry preview, Henshaw's hammie, serial foot sniffers, Le Croydon

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Thu, 17 Sep 2015 14:58:05 +0000

The Dubs-Kerry glamour myth, Paul Flynn's uncertainty, Donaghy or Geaney, Kerry curveballs, open football - Oisin McConville and Malachy Clerkin preview the All Ireland final. U.S. Murph talks serial foot-sniffers, sexscapades, Rex Ryan's big mouth, and Brady's return. And there's the French hatin' on Croydon, Ken hatin' on France, Eoin's 80's shopping trips and Henshaw's hammie.

Luke Shaw's recovery, Rafa V Tolstoy, Jose's pronouns, Chelsea V Arsenal

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Thu, 17 Sep 2015 12:08:19 +0000

Eoin, Ken and Ciaran talk about Luke Shaw's recovery schedule, Jose Mourinho's pronoun problem, and how Rafael Benitez has just done Leo Tolstoy up like a kipper. Emmet Malone joins us to look forward to Chelsea v Arsenal this weekend. And John Brewin was there to see Manchester City rehash some old failings at home to Juventus.

Gigantic RWC preview, Doug Howlett, Briege Corkery, Djokovic buzzkill

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Mon, 14 Sep 2015 15:06:32 +0000

The Rugby World Cup starts this weekend, and we scientifically prove Ireland will beat France. Gerry Thornley and Denis Hickie predict our first semi-final appearance, and a win for the All-Blacks, but not without a battle or two, and Doug Howlett joins us in studio too to talk World Cup pressure cookers. Another week, another All-Ireland medal for Cork superstar Briege Corkery - she talks to us from the winner's hotel. Plus there's Roger Federer's predictable failures, head prefects, and Mark Spitz-ing it down Cork main street.

Martial goes Thierry, Gothic Steve G, fragile Liverpool, Jose's stubble

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Mon, 14 Sep 2015 12:49:44 +0000

Eoin, Ken and Ciaran discuss the Henryesque technique of Martial, a difficult episode in the high school basketball career of Barack Obama, and the Gothic stylings of Steven Gerrard's latest autobiography. Tony Barrett was at Goodison to witness an implosion by Chelsea and subsequent explosion by Jose Mourinho. And Jonathan Wilson analyses Manchester United's 3-1 victory over Liverpool.

Drugs in rugby, double life of Emile Griffith, a good week for Lance, Ken pundit

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Thu, 10 Sep 2015 15:02:53 +0000

Toulon are in the middle of a doping investigation, and their PR campaign could do with a little finessing. We talk to Shane Horgan about rugby's backward approach to drugs. One of our favourite authors Donald McRae joins us to talk about his brilliant new book "A Man's World - The Double Life of Emile Griffith", the 5-time world champion who hid his homosexuality from the world, but killed the boxer who tried to make it public. Plus - it's been a very good week for Lance Armstrong, as Paula Radcliffe and Floyd Mayweather fight for their reputations, Ken turns rugby pundit, and we lambast the slothful Roger Federer.

Grealish English, Bale's Wales, Man Utd's unhappy players, MON channels Clough

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Thu, 10 Sep 2015 13:14:49 +0000

Eoin and Ken talk about Martin O'Neill's psychological manipulations, Grealish's fateful choice, and Lionel Messi's tribute to Rooney. Richie Sadlier comes in to discuss the materialistic road our civilisation is headed down. Is there really no other way? Plus there's LOI's TV money deficit, Jonny Wilkinson's self identity and Liverpool's baseline.

Kilkenny's game, Galway's salty tears, Brogan brilliance, Eng V Ire 90%

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Mon, 07 Sep 2015 13:33:38 +0000

Kilkenny end the season as champions again - and rather than it being the last vestiges of a great side, it could just as easily be the start of another cycle of wins. Eoin Kelly is in studio, and Kilkenny corner-forward Walter Walsh joins us on the line. Mayo's dream dies at the penultimate hurdle, and Dublin take accuracy to a new level - we pick through the bones of Dublin's win with Oisin McConville and Micheal Quirke. We talk about the Grim Reaper of RTE's sports department, hot salty splashes of Galway pain, and why Ireland/England at 90% doesn't matter.

Ireland Georgia, Robbie's record, Scots Irish choke-off, Death of Dutch football

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Mon, 07 Sep 2015 11:26:38 +0000

Eoin, Ken and Ciaran are preoccupied by the Robbie Keane conundrum. Is it begrudgery to point out that Ireland's goal king hasn't scored against anyone good except Sweden in the last four years? Tom English reports from Scotland on the mess they made of their trip to Georgia, on and off the field. And Simon Kuper joins us to point some fingers after two defeats left Holland staring Euro 2016 elimination in the face.

Robbie's weekend, teenage angst, De Gea u-turn, Germany's open arms

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Thu, 03 Sep 2015 14:42:26 +0000

Eoin and Ken wonder how it would feel to be 19 and cost the same as Zidane. Hopefully Anthony Martial is the unflappable type. Richie Sadlier talks about De Gea and other transfer window stories, and we also hear from Emmet Malone who's with the Ireland camp out in Portugal. And Stephan Uersfeld joins us from Berlin to talk about German football's attitude to the European refugee crisis.

Galway KK preview, Serena's slam, Mayo sweepers, Ken's piano journey

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Thu, 03 Sep 2015 12:08:13 +0000

Eoin Ken and Murph kill time before a gigantic sporting weekend by discussing hypnosis, Mayo's sweepers, RWC scum emails, Marshawn Lynch's skittles commercial, and Ken's piano journey. We talk to two of the greats from Galway's past, Cyril Farrell and Noel Lane, about comparisons between the 1980's sides and the current version, and why thinking too much about Kilkenny is never great preparation for a final. Serena Williams is chasing the calender Grand Slam in NYC this week. We talk to US Murph about the excitement stateside and about one of the true trailblazers, Althea Gibson, a black woman from Harlem who was winning Wimbledon and US Open titles back in the 1950's.

Dublin's mental frailties resurface, Mayo's plan for replay, RWC starters, Dafne Schippers

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Mon, 31 Aug 2015 14:45:01 +0000

Dublin Mayo have to do it all again on Saturday. We talk to Oisin McConville and Anthony Moyles about Dublin's mid 2000's style mental frailties, Mayo's bouncebackability, and who will win the replay. Ireland V Wales was supposed to help decide what fringe players would make the 31 man RWC squad. Instead we learnt more about who the starting XV should be against France. Gerry Thornley joins us in studio. Plus there's the High Court case that's aiming to stop South Africa going to the RWC, the sport that ate itself, Germany's response to the refugee crisis, and Dafne Schippers - the woman who runs faster than Flo Jo.

Liverpool fail big, measuring misery, LVG's possession obsession, transfer party

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Mon, 31 Aug 2015 10:44:39 +0000

Eoin, Ken and Ciaran talk through a weekend of Premier League action that saw Chelsea, Liverpool and Manchester United all beaten. Will any of the wounded giants unleash a transfer market Spectacular in the next 36 hours? Chris Bascombe joins us to discuss Liverpool's unfortunate new habit of conceding three to six goals at a time. And Jonathan Wilson analyses whether Louis van Gaal's possession ethos is cramping Manchester United's style.

Mayo Dublin, Billy Walsh departure, Joe's squad, Jarryd Hayne, Bolt V segway

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Thu, 27 Aug 2015 15:32:44 +0000

Mayo and Dublin meet again on Sunday in a game that has the potential to be a classic. The margins are wafer thin.... but all five people in studio predict a Mayo win. Newly-crowned European champion Michael Conlan talks about the impact losing Billy Walsh would have on Irish boxing. US Murph tells us about the Australian rugby star now ripping it up for the 49ers, and we look at Schmidt's RWC squad options. Plus there's Bolt V Segway, MDMA GAA snobbery, and more urinal chat.

Wayne's second era, how Everton can save football, Ashley Madison man

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Thu, 27 Aug 2015 12:46:44 +0000

Eoin, Ken and Ciaran discuss the glorious new dawn of the second era of Wayne Rooney. There is also a lot of transfer and Ashley Madison dating talk today. James Corbett joins us to talk about why Everton feel they should have a chance of holding on to John Stones. And Raphael Honigstein gives us his view on the record transfer of Kevin de Bruyne to Man City, while bringing us up to date with the latest in football jargon.

Comparing Pedro and Rooney, Zlatan option, West Ham's Bilic love

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Mon, 24 Aug 2015 16:28:19 +0000

Eoin and Ken discuss the weekend's football. How many more lifetime minutes has Rooney played than Pedro? And how can Tony Pulis reconcile his admiration for Napoleon with his love of tradition, order and respect? Jacob Steinberg joins us to discuss West Ham's calculated risk in appointing Slaven Bilic. And John Brewin was at the Hawthorns to see Mourinho finally get the better of Tony Pulis.

Kerry's amazing 24 months, Tyrone redemption, Bolt halo, fan rants

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Mon, 24 Aug 2015 14:22:33 +0000

Kerry are in the All-Ireland final again - the first champions to make it back to the final the following year since they did it themselves in 2008. Oisin McConville and Micheal Quirke discuss the incredible 24 month turnaround from talk of a drought to talk of an era of dominance. Usain Bolt V Justin Gatlin pulled in the fans this weekend - David Gillick tells us if the good vs evil narrative helps the sport of athletics. And we talk the Rorschach test for Chris Bart-Williams, Daley Thompson's tracksuit and the 'footbal fan on post-game rant' youtube genre - the gift that keeps on giving.

Coveting Pedro, Ed Woodward's glass hammer, winger burnout, Grealish bait

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Thu, 20 Aug 2015 14:28:29 +0000

Eoin and Ken talk about Pedro. A cut-and-dried case of Chelsea coveting their neighbour's ass? If Manchester United didn’t covet Pedro, what was Ed Woodward doing in Barcelona? And why does Jose Mourinho burn out wingers at such an alarming rate? Richie Sadlier joins us to talk through the ramifications of the Pedro deal, and whether Manchester United can feel confident about their attacking options if that’s the last action of the transfer window.

GAA's diving legislation, Kerry Tyrone, Sexton on RWC, cycling, refugees and dictatorships

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Thu, 20 Aug 2015 12:42:28 +0000

Kerry and Tyrone face off in the first of the All Ireland semis on Sunday. Micheal Quirke talks Tiernan McCann ban farce, Kerry converting superiority into a win, and the day Paidi O"Se faced one of his own fans. Johnny Sexton talks to Simon about Leo the coach, recruiting from within and fine tuning for the RWC. Plus there's Ronaldo hair, the crazy cats at the CCCC, and refugees, dictatorships and cycling in Eritrea.

Chelsea's wounded lion, Rooney's career arc, Man City alchemy

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Mon, 17 Aug 2015 14:51:32 +0000

Eoin and Ken discuss complicated Van Gaal, John Terry's crushed pride and the options now open to Chelsea's wounded Lion. Dr Jonathan Wilson attempts to diagnose what is eating Chelsea FC. And John Brewin assesses Wayne Rooney's prospects of successfully carrying the Manchester United attack this season.

Galway explodes, Jason Day's journey, Michael Conlan gold

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Mon, 17 Aug 2015 13:46:40 +0000

Finally, Galway and Tipperary gave us a game to remember, and we have Eoin Kelly in studio to talk to us about a thrilling All-Ireland hurling semi-final. We discuss Jason Day's incredible journey to becoming a major champion and creating a Big Three, and we talk to one of Ireland's best sportspeople, boxer Michael Conlan, after his European Championship gold medal and Boxer of the Tournament success. Plus there's Eoin's hurling helmet getting a trip to Croke Park, boozed up golf fans, and celebrations in the Early house.

American violence, Argentina 78, Sunday Game, Irish at USPGA

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Thu, 13 Aug 2015 15:30:21 +0000

American violence, Argentina 78, Sunday Game, Irish at USPGA by IrishTimes SecondCaptains

Jose's show of weakness, celeb doctors, Premier league TV, shirt deals

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Thu, 13 Aug 2015 13:13:16 +0000

Eoin and Ken discuss the medical profession. Is it ethical for a doctor to stand up for themselves if they are publicly criticised by their employer? And what constitutes celebrity status? Dion Fanning joins us to talk about Jose Mourinho's masterclass in how not to run your public relations. And Gabriele Marcotti analyses the impact of the Premier League's latest gigantic TV contract.

PL's wealthy middle class, Swansea skill, Jordan Ibe, Chelsea physio

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Mon, 10 Aug 2015 13:51:36 +0000

Eoin, Ken and Ciaran reflect on the opening weekend of the Premier League season and particularly Swansea City, who are suddenly bristling with superstar players. Is Jonjo Shelvey the English Rijkaard? Is Jefferson Montero the Ecuadorean Jimmy Johnstone? Is Andre Ayew the Ghanaian Tim Cahill? Jonathan Wilson joins us to reflect on the growing strength of the Premier League's middle class. And Oluwashina Okeleji joins us from Nigeria to talk about the Super Eagles' pursuit of Jordon Ibe and THAT interview with Stephen Keshi.

Lowry hits big time, Mayo power, Tyrone dive, KK fire, RWC momentum

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Mon, 10 Aug 2015 12:24:35 +0000

It was a bumper weekend of sport, the highlight of which was Shane Lowry's win in the Bridgestone Invitational. We also talk about Ireland's assured start to their World Cup build-up with Gerry Thornley. Kilkenny move remorselessly on - Murph thinks Kilkenny are fallible, the rather better-qualified Eoin Kelly isn't so sure - and there's Mayo and Tyrone down to the last 4, but not without some controversy. Plus there's Richie Hogan's skinless feet, intense hair-ruffles, and Brian Cody selfies.

Ireland's RWC tightrope, Mayo Donegal heavyweights, Welsh hallucinate

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Thu, 06 Aug 2015 13:57:42 +0000

Mayo and Donegal is the first meeting of heavyweights in this year's championship, and Oisin McConville and Malachy Clerkin ask some tough questions of Mayo. They're still backing them for victory mind, and Ken goes 2 steps further, backing them for ultimate glory in September. Shane Horgan talks to us about walking the tightrope between avoiding injury and cementing your place in the squad during these Rugby World Cup warm-up games. Plus there's a bad case of wicket-fever, welsh hallucinations, Kamp Staaldraad and Waterford's reasons for hope.

Premier League preview, Liverpool's selling clubs, Messi turns bad

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Thu, 06 Aug 2015 12:22:29 +0000

Eoin, Ken and Ciaran ponder how long you realistically need to prove yourself in the eyes of a judge as perceptive as Jose Mourinho. 10 matches? 10 minutes? 10 seconds? Tony Barrett joins us to discuss the potential transfer of John Stones, and how market forces are recasting the city of Liverpool as a feeding ground for the richest clubs. Plus there's evil Messi, Ken's predictions for PL and McDevitt's marathon fable.

Epstein on IAAF leak, Andy Lee on Thomond, McGuinness' fear for football

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Tue, 04 Aug 2015 15:26:26 +0000

We have world middleweight champion Andy Lee in studio talking about his new career as a boxing promoter, his challenger's distasteful thoughts on women, and visualising the biggest night of his career. David Epstein, author of The Sports Gene, joins us to talk about the explosive Sunday Times / ARD investigation that suggests widespread doping in athletics. And we talk about just why Jim McGuinness was right to be disturbed by the weekend's football action.

Success and vanity, Ronaldo's gift, Schweinsteiger's condition

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Tue, 04 Aug 2015 11:55:18 +0000

Eoin, Ken and Murph discuss the possibility of an island, the impossibility of a handshake, and why Pep Guardiola seems to be eager to let everyone know Bastian Schweinsteiger is a crock. Miguel Delaney joins us to talk about whether Arsenal really are the biggest threat to Chelsea's chances of retaining the title.

Jose declaims, Platini declares, Di Maria departs?

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Thu, 30 Jul 2015 12:56:55 +0000

Eoin and Ken talk about Diego Costa's dead dog, and Michel Platini's political rivals. Jonathan Wilson joins us to talk about whether the mere fact of becoming Britain's most expensive player means you need to take any responsibility for your own performance.

Scandal Special, Racism in Aussie Sport, Championship Latest

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Thu, 30 Jul 2015 12:09:25 +0000

Four games in the gaelic football championship this weekend, and some teams that have impressed in the qualifiers face their acid test - Oisin McConville joins us in studio. Adam Goodes, one of Australian Rules' biggest stars, is in the middle of a massive racism storm - we speak to Rohan Connolly about some uncomfortable home truths for Aussie sports fans to confront. US Murph tells us about the latest developments in the Tom Brady Deflategate omnishambles and we pay tribute to the late Peter O'Sullevan.

O Louis, Sir Alex, Ken & Roy, Hulkamania

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Mon, 27 Jul 2015 19:23:12 +0000

Eoin and Ken talk about Louis van Gaal's skewed priorities, Alex Ferguson's retaliator strategy and Hulk Hogan's floundering PR battle. We also hear from Roy Keane and Ruud Dokter who today launched the new national U17 league in a press conference at FAI HQ

Leo for Leinster, Johnny Glynn & Galway, Cork sport

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Mon, 27 Jul 2015 13:49:01 +0000

We are down to the last four in the All-Ireland hurling championship - and Galway and Waterford both stepped up to suggest they can trouble the provincial winners in the semi-finals. Eoin Kelly runs the rule over them. Leo Cullen looks set to be installed as the new Leinster head coach - Bernard Jackman and Gerry Thornley outlines the positives, while Eoin McDevitt mentions 'the Steve Staunton precedent'. Plus there's NSFW post-match interviews, Froome's Tour de France win, and the end of Cork sport.

Unpaid Labour, Family Values, Sterling's choice

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Thu, 23 Jul 2015 14:53:47 +0000

Eoin and Ken discuss Eoin's past as an agricultural slave in Australia. Meanwhile Arsene Wenger is lecturing Manchester United and Barcelona on how to do their business. John Brewin joins us to talk about Ed "Zero Gravity" Woodward and his remarkable transformation from market jester to transfer kingpin, and whether Raheem Sterling's agent really deserves the criticism that comes his way.

Froome and Sky versus the Media, All-Ireland Quarters, Minaj v Swift

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Thu, 23 Jul 2015 13:56:40 +0000

The All-Ireland hurling quarter-finals are the main event in the GAA this weekend, and we talk to Limerick hurler Seamus Hickey about how their conquerors Dublin will fare against Waterford, and look ahead to Cork v Galway, as well as a reflection on Limerick's season - turning-points that proved to be round-abouts, team meetings about team meetings and ultimate disappointment. We discuss Chris Froome's utter domination of the Tour de France, and how a team owned by a media company can have such a bad handle on basic PR - and there's the twitter spat that's divided our office (Nicki Minaj vs Taylor Swift vs Katy Perry).

Zach's tears, Harrington hope, Kerry Mayo Monaghan, all apologies

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Mon, 20 Jul 2015 20:12:29 +0000

Zach Johnson wins the tournament that didn’t want to end - Lawrence Donegan on tears, golfing charisma, Spieth and hope for Harrington. Meanwhile the mighty pair of Monaghan and Mayo have been dealing out the pain to the surfing hotspots of Sligo and Donegal. Oisin and Karol Mannion are in studio to talk through the weekend's football. Plus there's Sepp's cash confetti, Ken's apology, the birdie dance and Mick Rock's connacht final speech.

Delaney's cheering chairmen, McClean and perfidious Albion, Benteke fit

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Mon, 20 Jul 2015 12:53:30 +0000

Eoin and Ken discuss James McClean's exaggerated sense of justice. Is his stance on God Save The Queen really a battle worth fighting and does he know what the word Albion means? Ken was at the FAI's AGM this weekend to watch various chairmen cheering on John Delaney. Also features Benteke's strange fit with Liverpool, The Queen's nazi salute, consequences of the industrial revolution and Santana's Let The Children Play.

Live Sugar, McGuinness plan, Davey Byrne, Brian Toomey

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Thu, 16 Jul 2015 22:01:03 +0000

Welcome to the Second Captains 'rock or bust' live tour from The Sugar Club in Dublin. Oisin McConville, Dessie Dolan and Anthony Moyles discuss the Dublin Armagh challenge match saga, the Jim McGuinness All Ireland plan and this weekend's provincial finals. Jockey Brian Toomey talks about his incredible recovery and return to racing this week, having been declared dead after a fall two years ago. And we once again mined your memories for stories with our childhood heroes segment, which features a visit from semi retired guardian angel Victor Costello.

The McGregor formula, Tipp's big celebration, hatin' on Novak

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Mon, 13 Jul 2015 12:15:36 +0000

Ken Early reports on what he's learned of the UFC and the Conor McGregor phenomenon after a week of seeing the man himself, the promoters, and his fans. Eoin Kelly joins us to talk about a Munster final triumph for Tipperary that was celebrated like it was their first. We touch on Dublin - Westmeath and their gift to the Gaels of Ireland, Wimbledon's ad-free zone, Pierce Brosnan-spotting and Andy Lee's superfan.

Raheem moves to City, Schweinsteiger to Man Utd, sell-on myth

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Sun, 12 Jul 2015 21:24:25 +0000

Raheem Sterling has finally got the deal he wanted - out of Liverpool, and into the arms of Manchester City. The red half of Manchester have been going about their business a lot more smartly this summer, so we talk to Gabriele Marcotti about the arrival of Bastian Schweinsteiger at Old Trafford. Plus there's the sell-on value myth, midfielder-of-his-generation Lee Bowyer, and weird transfer-day ads.

McGregor and Ken in Vegas, Munster final, likeable Murray

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Thu, 09 Jul 2015 13:45:27 +0000

Ken Early is in Las Vegas - he's bought the Liberace gear, he's gone to Celine Dion, and now he's reporting on Conor McGregor's bout with Chad Mendes. The hurling championship is down to the best 8 teams in the country, and we'll lose two of those this weekend. Plus there's the Munster hurling final - Nicky English and Malachy Clerkin look ahead to three huge games. We'll talk to US Murph about the women's soccer team, and we'll focus on Ilie Nastase, Andy Murray's likeability, and that whole Wimbledon / Streetfighter 2 connection.

Cork Kerry go again, Lowry in the majors, Rory's ankle

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Mon, 06 Jul 2015 15:13:23 +0000

Mark and Murph discuss Rory McIlroy's 5-a-side skills, Stephen Keshi's sacking saga and the Kilkenny doctor's running style. Oisin McConville and Micheal Quirke look at Cork's new found aggression, Kerry's defence, Fionn Fitzgerald's point and Alan O'Connor's extreme toughness. And we chatted to Shane Lowry about contending in the majors, Murph's handsome dog and his shift tweets.

Chile Copa, Messi and Argentina, RVP's Utd legacy, Irish invasions

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Sun, 05 Jul 2015 21:16:07 +0000

Ken and Murph discuss Irish invasions, McGregors irrelevant opponent, Higuain's Diana Ross penalty, Van Persie's Man United legacy and Bilic the special one. Tim Vickery joins us from Chile to look at Chile's red arrows Copa win, South American violence, super strikers and Argentina's ongoing issues with Messi.

Cork Kerry non rivalry, NASCAR flag, Aldo bites, Obama podcast

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Thu, 02 Jul 2015 15:46:04 +0000

The Cork footballers are a much-maligned group but this weekend they have a chance to redeem themselves after last year's Munster final humiliation - we're joined by All-Ireland winner Micheal Quirke and acclaimed author Michael Foley. US Murph talks to us about the history of NASCAR and the death knell finally sounding for the Confederate flag. And we recycle the Nicki Minaj-Murph comparisons everyone's been talking about, Shane Lowry's dog-envy, Katie endorsements, and Barack Obama's podcast nerves.

English heartbreak, Depay toil, Messi rep, Jose and Cech

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Thu, 02 Jul 2015 13:28:35 +0000

Ken and Ciaran talk about England's astonishing last-minute defeat to Japan, Sepp Blatter's high-end religious paraphernalia, and Jose Mourinho's deep human respect for that true and faithful servant, Petr Cech. Jonathan Wilson joins us from Santiago as Chile gets ready for the Copa America final against Lionel Messi and Argentina. And Michiel Jongsma explains where departed Netherlands coach Guus Hiddink got it all wrong.

Westmeath go one direction, Dubs entertain, Becker's reflected glory

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Mon, 29 Jun 2015 17:43:20 +0000

It was an astonishing day at Croke Park for Westmeath as they defeated Meath in the championship for the first time in their history. Man of the match John Heslin joins us on the show. Oisin McConville and Anthony Moyles have harsh words for Meath, wonder if anyone can stop Dublin and spot a few chinks in the Donegal armour. Plus there's Niall Horan's tweets, bragging rights at work on a Monday morning, Ken tells Boris Becker to shut up, and psychologists and psychiatrists go to war.

Ramos' adaptation, Dunga's dark world, Emre Can's pizza, WWC15

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Mon, 29 Jun 2015 16:28:50 +0000

Eoin, Ken and Ciaran discuss Greece's choice between a rock and a hard place, crumbling social codes in Sweden, and a GAA-style outrage in Germany. Miguel Delaney and James Young join us from Chile to talk about the foreseeable disaster of a Brazil team under Dunga playing really bad football. And Sid Lowe talks us through some of the issues surrounding the possible transfer of Sergio Ramos away from Real Madrid

Italia 90, Liverpool get busy, FAI and Messi, 70's maverick

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Thu, 25 Jun 2015 14:45:21 +0000

Eoin and Murph discuss Italia 90 tv legacy, chanelling Dave O'Leary and Roberto Firmino's private website. We talk to Emmet Malone about the FAI problem that won't go away. Liverpool have been very busy in the transfer market. We ask Tony Barrett if there's a cohesive plan. And Dion Fanning joins us to discuss the life and career of 70's maverick Stan Bowles.

Serene Donegal, McGregor prep, gambling evil, pushy rapper parents

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Thu, 25 Jun 2015 12:59:20 +0000

Donegal are moving serenely through what looked like a historically tough route to All-Ireland glory - but is there a touch of arrogance coming into their play? Oisin McConville and Anthony Moyles preview the weekend's action. US Murph re-opens the old East Coast / West Coast rap wars. Plus there's pushy parents, Wexford wonder-goals, Jose Aldo's injury and why gambling is baseball's original sin.

Messi's 'obligation', sport against racism, presidential Diego

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Mon, 22 Jun 2015 15:17:41 +0000

Its been 22 years since Argentina last won a major trophy. We talk to Jonathan Wilson at the Copa America about Messi's international 'obligation'. We talk about how Sport Against Racism Ireland has been working for years to break down barriers in Irish society through sport, and it's annual 7-aside soccer tournament yesterday was the scene of a heartbreaking loss for Second Captains FC. Plus there's June Rodgers, dodgy penalty-taking techniques, and a FIFA presidential candidate we can all get behind.

Golf choke, selling wholesomeness, Go Tipp KK, Andy in Thomond

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Mon, 22 Jun 2015 14:08:04 +0000

Jordan Spieth is 2 for 2 in this year's golf majors. We discuss golfing chokes, selling wholesomeness and the Irish factor with Dave Hannigan. Kilkenny and Tipperary had to wait for their first games in this year's championship, but they both made telling statements of intent at the weekend - Eoin Kelly assesses their form. We talk to Frank Warren about Andy Lee's world title fight in Thomond. Plus there's wristy hurlers, talking to golf balls and which sporting mega-star now resembles Las Vegas-era Elvis.

Neymar's Copa runneth over, Jose Falcao Mendes axis, FIFA flop

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Thu, 18 Jun 2015 13:13:20 +0000

Some football tournaments take their time getting into their stride - but this year's Copa America isn't one of them. Tim Vickery tells us about another Brazil meltdown, 6 goal thrillers and host-nation high drama. John Brewin tells us why Jose Mourinho feels Falcao deserves another chance in English football. And there's also Flava Flav, PBESO mountains, FIFA's cinematic excrement and Jonathan Pearce in Montreal.

Rory goes full LeBron, crazy golf, Tipp V Lim, Once were warriors

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Thu, 18 Jun 2015 11:28:24 +0000

Rory McIlroy was channelling LeBron James in the build-up to this week's US Open, describing himself as the world's best. Lawrence Donegan previews the second major of the golf season, while US Murph tells us why his beloved Golden State Warriors made light of James and his ragbag Cleveland Cavaliers in the NBA finals. Eoin Kelly joins us in studio ahead of Tipperary against Limerick and we ask himt how managers should deal with errant players. Plus there are some tips for staying up late to watch American sporting events, tying Messi's hands behind his back to make things more interesting, dozing at mass, and crazy golf.

Ireland out of scapegoats, mediocre Martin, Jack's holiday snaps

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Mon, 15 Jun 2015 14:52:29 +0000

Eoin and Ken discuss national anthems, Ireland's lack of a scapegoat, Scotland's acceptance of responsibility, and rating the Women's World Cup. Emmet Malone and Dion Fanning join us in studio to talk about whether there is anything to be said for another Mass. Plus there's Jack Grealish's holiday snaps, Ken's dream permutations and fortress Reyjkavik.

Donegal's natural born leader, Everest disaster, Grealish pics

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Mon, 15 Jun 2015 13:20:16 +0000

Mayo are being judged to a different standard than every other team in Ireland, says Malachy Clerkin, as he and Anthony Moyles take a look at thrilling Donegal, meek Meath and Mayo under new management. We hear an amazing story of heroism and heartbreak from base camp on Everest during the Nepal Earthquake from earlier this year with Irish mountaineer Paul Devaney. All that plus giant stag parties, Murph getting greased up for his local team, and our shock at Jack Grealish's twin loves of social media and lads' holidays.

Tests for Mayo Donegal Kerry, LeBron's one man team, Lance V FIFA

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Thu, 11 Jun 2015 15:43:51 +0000

Three of last year's provincial champions are in action this weekend - Oisin McConville and Anthony Moyles look at obstacles facing new managers, stale Mayo, seamless Donegal and confident Meath. US Murph joins us to talk Lebron James' one-man mission and walking the egomaniac-teamwork tightrope. Plus there's McDevitt's stag, Lance V FIFA, John Giles in the media, and the Second Captains Leaving Cert exam.

Ire V Sco preview, Strachan's no booze rule, go Wes, Delaney TDs

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Thu, 11 Jun 2015 14:01:33 +0000

Ken and Ciaran discuss Leyton Orient's Italian TV reach, Stewart Regan's cold revenge and Michael O'Neill's frustration with international political reality. Richie Sadlier considers the question of whether alcohol is an indispensable elixir of fellow-feeling and team spirit, or a dangerous drug that deceives and deludes its users and ultimately destroys everything good in the world. And Graham Hunter joins us to talk about how Gordon Strachan has brought the spark back into Scotland's play

Loveable Waterford, sad Dublin, Women's World Cup, Big Jack

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Mon, 08 Jun 2015 16:24:41 +0000

Maurice Shanahan fired Waterford past Cork and earned the admiring glances of Ken Early, while Dublin were humiliated by Galway - Eoin Kelly and Malachy Clerkin explain why Waterford are so goddamn loveable this year. The Women's World Cup kicked off in Canada in front of a record crowd of 53,000. ESPN's Jeff Carlisle joins us to talk about the growth of the game and playing surface sexism. Plus there's McDevitt's annoying guessing games, Italia 90 flashbacks and self refereeing.

Drab Ireland, polite England, Delaney's fortnight, Barca's treble

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Mon, 08 Jun 2015 15:29:47 +0000

Eoin and Ken discuss Ireland-England heartburn, the Barbra Streisand effect, Neymar's private moment, and why anybody could manage Barcelona. Emmet Malone joins us to look back on an incredible fortnight in the career of John Delaney. And Jonathan Wilson reviews the Champions League final, and examines why English teams can't beat cut price Juve.

Passing drugs tests, the FBI and sport, cheating eyes

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Thu, 04 Jun 2015 13:21:59 +0000

For part of his career David Gillick trained in America with Tyson Gay and other athletes who turned out to be dopers. David talks to us about last night's Panorama documentary on Mo Farah's coach, and how easy it is to pass drugs tests. We chat to US Murph about the FBI's historical links to corruption in sports and just how much America is enjoying watching FIFA collapse. Plus there's McDevitt's EPO marathon times, Beckham the moral crusader, salad days for sports journalists, and why Ken likes what he sees when he looks into sports' cheating eyes.

Warner goes nuclear, Barca V Juve, Ireland V England

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Thu, 04 Jun 2015 12:13:11 +0000

Eoin and Ken discuss the latest revelations from the worlds of Chuck Blazer and Jack Warner, and look ahead to Saturday night's Champions League final. Martin Lipton joins us to give his view on whether the Ireland-England friendly is a bad idea, as some coverage has suggested. And we preview the big final in Berlin with Dion Fanning.

Sepp Stands Down Second Captains Special

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Wed, 03 Jun 2015 14:09:36 +0000

Sepp Blatter shocked the world, and Ken, by standing down from his role as head of FIFA. We examine his lengthy career, his motives for this sudden departure, whats coming next for him and for FIFA, who should take over, and if this really changes anything for world football. James Montague, author of When Friday Comes: Football in the War Zone says all of football's ills were not channelled through Sepp, and that Europeans still don't get the bigger picture for the game.

Ride of the Valcke, ripped Messi, big Rafa, Milner time

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Tue, 02 Jun 2015 13:40:36 +0000

Eoin, Ken and Ciaran discuss Jerome Valcke's inbox problem, Sepp Blatter's enduring popularity with non-European voters, Milner time, and Lionel Messi's outstanding physical condition. Philippe Auclair joins us to discuss what the future holds for Jerome Valcke. And Gabriele Marcotti gives us his view on Rafael Benitez's time in charge of Napoli.

All Ireland death, rugby's moneyball team, pesky Americans

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Tue, 02 Jun 2015 12:20:48 +0000

Eoin, Ken and Murph discuss vengeful Americans, wayward Englishmen and the art of blaming it on the dead guy. Oisin McConville and Anthony Moyles tell us weaker county massacres will become more common and more comprehensive in the future unless the GAA make some changes. Five years ago Glasgow were a non entity in a football mad city, and this year they crushed all before them in the Pro12. The BBC's Tom English says if they can do it, anybody can.

Rory's Irish project, Lebron V Air Jordan, Real's Rafa gamble, pushy parents

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Thu, 28 May 2015 13:38:05 +0000

Eoin and Ken discuss Lebron's urban regeneration, Rory McIlroy's trouble with squinting windows, and Real's Rafa Benitez gamble. We talk to the BBC's Iain Carter about golf's ability to humiliate the greats and Rory's motivation for reviving The Irish Open. Plus there's Brian Murphy on LeBron chasing Jordan's legacy, the saddest city in America, selfish sports stars and Snoop Dogg becoming a pushy parent.

Sepp, Chuck, FIFA and the FBI, John 'Nostradamus' Delaney

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Thu, 28 May 2015 12:06:31 +0000

Eoin and Ken talk about FIFA and the Feds, menacing hotel concierges, and the pivotal role being played in the unfolding global drama by prescient FAI CEO John Delaney. David Goldblatt joins us to talk about why this crisis is different from anything Sepp Blatter has faced before. And we ask Jonathan Wilson why the English clubs have a phobia about Thursday night football.

O'Connell's future, Leinster's next coach, Connacht's luck, Davy Fitz show

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Mon, 25 May 2015 14:34:49 +0000

The hurlng championship had its first big day yesterday - Tipperary legend Eoin Kelly joins us to talk about Davy's post-match interview, and Limerick's precocious new star. Connacht were the victims of an inexplicable refereeing performance on Sunday. We ask Gerry Thornley about ill luck, Paul O'Connell's future and what characteristics the next Leinster coach should have. Plus there's Henry Shefflin's punditry, comparing San Francisco to Galway, Ken's day at Dublin Castle and MC Hammer Time.

Bill O'Herlihy Tribute

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Mon, 25 May 2015 12:45:31 +0000

We were all saddened today to hear of the passing of one of the true legends of Irish broadcasting, Bill O'Herlihy. Italia 90 and all the other major sporting occasions wouldn't have been the same without him. We had the honour of having Bill in to The Irish Times studios last year to talk about his incredible career.

Consequences for Liverpool, Hull's Irish go down, Sepp's Swiss organ

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Mon, 25 May 2015 11:46:31 +0000

Ken reveals his dream of conceiving a child together with Eoin. Ciaran joins in to discuss the last day of the Premier League, and together we review Sepp Blatter's audience with his preferred Swiss organ. John Brewin was at the KC Stadium to see Hull go down to the Championship. Chris Bascombe joins us to discuss the possible consequences of Liverpool's evisceration at Stoke.

Hello San Francisco, US Murph: the Irish years, Liverpool to United

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Thu, 21 May 2015 07:06:01 +0000

Today's show is coming at you live and dangerous from Foley's Bar in San Francisco, featuring more sporting misery, a live PBESO and a USA V Ireland quiz. Brian Murphy details San Francisco's incredible run of sporting success, the joys of little league and serving pints to Hurricane Higgins. We ask Richie Sadlier if Raheem Sterling should go to Man United and author Lawrence Donegan tells us about the time he interviewed Newt Gingrich for a newspaper in rural Donegal.

Van Gaal goes viral, Raheem awards, brand Brazil

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Wed, 20 May 2015 19:41:34 +0000

Eoin, Ken and Murph talk Mr Pushek's diet, surf in Santa Cruz boredom in Las Vegas, Louis van Gaal's public speaking, and the sleeping habits of successful people. Tony Barrett joins us to talk about Raheem Sterling's experience of awards night. And James Young analyses the recent revelations about the Brazilian national team selling the right to pick who plays for the team in friendly matches.

Machine V Man, Liverpool's nostalgia issues, best Barca

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Tue, 19 May 2015 01:34:37 +0000

We're in San Francisco, the tech capital of the world, and Ken is fretting about the rise of the machines and what it means for humans....and footballers. We ask Sid Lowe how 2015 Barca compare to the club's previous great sides. Jonathan Wilson considers the future for post-Gerrard Liverpool.

Meeting US Murph, streets of San Francisco, fighting Holyfield

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Mon, 18 May 2015 22:46:59 +0000

After 10 years of phone chats and emails, we finally met our beloved Brian Murphy in person. We talk about long distance relationships, his years in Ireland and San Francisco's rich sporting pedigree. Seamus McDonagh was an English literature student from Meath who didn't like boxing, and ended up fighting Evander Holyfield. San Francisco is now his home town and Seamus joins us in KNBR's studios to tell us his story. All this plus Jack Nicholson's Irish blarney, Ken beats nature and Murph's escape from Alcatraz.

Championship Preview, American crime and punishment, emasculated managers

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Thu, 14 May 2015 13:28:39 +0000

The GAA football championship starts this weekend - Anthony Moyles and Oisin McConville join us in studio to look ahead to the whole jamboree. As the countdown to our trip to San Francisco continues, US Murph tells us Deflategate could be Tom Brady's Waterloo. Plus there's WRWC2017, the earliest GAA song ever released, NBA buzzer-beater madness, and emasculated managers.

Barca alchemy, Grealish space, Juve throwback, Madrid's 'disaster of the century'

sports@irishtimes.com (Second Captains @ The Irish Times) — Thu, 14 May 2015 12:25:53 +0000

The Champions League final will be between Barcelona and Juventus - and quite a few people seem relieved it's not going to be a Clasico final. We get the reaction from Italy and Spain. Emmet Malone joins us in studio to try and help us understand why people have started to turn on Jack Grealish. Plus there's an update on Thai Premier League relegation fodder, Madrid's 'Disaster of the Century' and poor ol' Gareth Bale.