Episode 1849: What’s New About The New Ireland?

We were excited about Stephen Kenny’s first game as Ireland manager because it held out the prospect of something different, something new.

"We showed resilience but plenty to work on…"

Ireland manager Stephen Kenny spoke to FAI TV after the 1-1 draw against Bulgaria ????#COYBIG | #BULIRL pic.twitter.com/944JeEeZQm

— FAIreland ?????????? (@FAIreland) September 3, 2020

In the end, a defender whose name begins with D gave away a goal then redeemed himself by heading an injury-time equaliser, which was… exactly what happened in the last Ireland game (1-1 v Denmark, Doherty).

I know Shane Duffy means "this season" but I like to imagine he's mostly into cycling and only got roped into football by a mate in work who was short on numbers. pic.twitter.com/ZFlOj39i3f

— Séamas It Ever Was (@shockproofbeats) September 4, 2020

Celtic new-boy Shane Duffy scored a last minute equaliser for Ireland v Bulgaria in the #NationsLeague pic.twitter.com/glxA1bccge

— Sky Sports Scotland (@ScotlandSky) September 3, 2020

But apart from the basic plot elements, there were quite a few differences, all carefully and not-at-all defensively analysed by Mick McCarthy on co-commentary. We get into Kenny’s first game with Richard Sadlier and David Sneyd.

I’m sorry but this has been awful tonight. All for young lads making their debut, but it’s about winning games of football. ????????both teams very poor

— Ian Harte (@ianharte23) September 3, 2020

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 Game That Changed My Life, The Book Club and lots of added extras.

Only two episodes in and already this is easily one of the best podcasts I've listened to. Tough to listen to at times given the subject matter but such a compelling listen https://t.co/tIf6356WML

— Doron Salomon (@DoronSalomon) September 4, 2020

Have you been listening to our new podcast Where Is George Gibney?

There is a new episode out today.

Listen, download and subscribe on BBC Sounds ???? https://t.co/CN8jGdoUgE pic.twitter.com/HAd13JZ3Oq

— BBC Sounds (@BBCSounds) September 3, 2020