Episode 1399: Liverpool Lack Focus, Bayern Still Got It, Sad Sarri, Joe’s Options In Rome, True Test For Eddie’s New England

Liverpool V Bayern was supposed to be a goal-fest, between two heavy-scoring teams – so just how did we end up with a 0-0 after 90 minutes at Anfield last night? Rory Smith of the New York Times was there, and he joins us (7 mins) to reflect on a curiously cagey first leg.

A piece on Bayern Munich from last night at Anfield, on how decline doesn’t always look so obvious from close up. https://t.co/Hq5hwH8TqE

— Rory Smith (@RorySmith) February 20, 2019

We also discuss Man United Liverpool and the sad tale of Maurizio Sarri.

And by everything, I mean the style of football, to some extent – immediately recognisable, I think Sacchi called it – but mainly his story. Managers don’t have the background he has any more. I had a (lovely) day in Tuscany finding out about it https://t.co/Urqc1RZtMh

— Rory Smith (@RorySmith) February 18, 2019

After a rest week, we’re all pretty happy to see the Six Nations back this weekend, and Eoin Reddan and Gerry Thornley help us look ahead (27.30 mins) to our match in Rome on Sunday. What options does Joe have, how should he approach the rest of the tournament, how much of a revamp does our kicking game need, and have Ireland been holding back some plays for the World Cup?

©INPHO/Dan Sheridan

©INPHO/Tommy Dickson

The key game this weekend is in Cardiff, and we analyse the first real test of Eddie’s new England, and ask if talking freely is helping their cause.

©INPHO/Gary Carr

Plus in an even stupider show than usual today, there’s the arrival of Barry The Bodhrán into our lives, another Nesbitt-watch, Trevor Ringland = national disgrace, and “The Underwoods: A Retrospective”.

Mascot for UEFA Under 17 European Championships – which takes place across Ireland in May – is unveiled. #Bodhran pic.twitter.com/ukZtK5NYSQ

— Daire Walsh (@DaireJWalsh) February 20, 2019

Click the image at the top of the page to play the show. Monday’s shows are free to all. To listen to our programming throughout the rest of the week, join the Second Captains World Service. It’s independent, commercial-free and member-led with feature interviews, breaking news, Richie Sadlier’s Player’s Chair, The Politics Podcast, and lots of added extras.

We have news about alleged “Super Red” Jimmy Nesbitt, McTepid takes on Captain Hererra, and we suffer a few frightening 90’s rugby flashbacks

?????????https://t.co/cs1ahmxCFk pic.twitter.com/hvaPlu4Gkm

— Second Captains (@SecondCaptains) February 19, 2019

Before her international career was over @emmsb30 became the face of the women’s national team’s fight to be treated with respect, a fight she waged against the FAI. She tells @RichieSadlier the impact it had on her personallyhttps://t.co/2Z7yBcT8bB pic.twitter.com/rgATCPvj0f

— Second Captains (@SecondCaptains) February 15, 2019

Regular listeners will know we’ve had #Nesbittwatch and #Eoinzpoemz in the last few days

Yes, its been rich pickings for lovers of below average podcast segments

Well buckle up folks cos today we bring a dead Second Captains slot back to life ?????????????https://t.co/eZTXuAdoN8 pic.twitter.com/CbqoFQKicF

— Second Captains (@SecondCaptains) February 13, 2019