Episodes

May 21, 2024

In the final episode of our in-depth investigation of The Super League War, we look ahead at what came next for the newly formed NRL and survey the terrain of the postwar Rugby League landscape*. Then, we examine the legacy of Super League and celebrate the stories and characters who have shaped our series. Finally, we pay sincere tribute to the listeners who have come along for the ride. Be sure to join us to celebrate one last time at our wrap party, Saturday June 8: https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/897010561737?aff=oddtdtcreator Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

May 7, 2024

In our penultimate Super League episode we are thrilled to welcome back Steve Mascord to discuss our parallel Super League journeys, the legacy of 1997 and much more. ANyone who hasn't yet got a copy of Two Tribes can go to www.haroldhoarder.com and enter the code "rugby league digest" for a special discount offer. And don't forget to register for our Super League Wrap Party on Saturday June 8: https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/897010561737?aff=oddtdtcreator Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Apr 4, 2024

After three years of backroom deals, broken contracts, court cases, public sniping, and the splitting of the competition, peace was finally declared, and the National Rugby League was born. In our final chapter, we look at the rocky road to peace throughout 1997, covering every false start, potshot, rejected peace proposal, and, finally, the meeting that saw the game come together and the road to rationalisation begin. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 2, 2024

Michael is joined by our long time Adelaide correspondent Guy Wilson to discuss the rise and demise of the Rams, Rugby League in South Australia before and after and the case for a return to big time Rugby League in Adelaide. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 21, 2023

In this episode we discuss the demise of the Reds, Crushers and Chargers, troubling economic realities, transit lounges, the "original sin" of 1995 mass-expansion, gifting Perth to rugby union, the Crushers’ surprisingly good start, Packer the (off)white knight, packed lunches, throwing open the gates, winning their last ever game, failed merger plans, the great Rugby League man Eric Cox, players getting shafted and much more! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 4, 2023

Our extended recap of all the on-field action in 1997 concludes with the Newcastle Knights historic grand final win over Manly. We trace the Knights' road to glory, Joey's redemption arc, the convoy of Sid Foggs willing them to victory, Chief's leadership masterclass, that famous last second win, the insane scenes that followed in Newcastle, and much, much more! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Oct 31, 2023

In this long awaited episode we discuss Newcastle's mining history, identity as the steel city, BHP's closure, the tragic Newcastle earthquake, the miners' strike, seige mentality as a cultural feauture, Barabara Davis and the Aussies for the ARL, vitriol towards the Hunter Mariners, mascot mayhem, stadium wars, merger discussions, further Graham Murray appreciation, and much, much more! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sep 13, 2023

In this concluding episode of 'The Optus Cup', we discuss the 1997 RLW Player's Poll, shorts fuses of the era, an odd but pleasantly competitive finals system, knee-jerk calls to implement the video ref, Nick Kosef vs the Johns family, Tony Butterfield vs Terry Hill, some pre grand final Darren Albert magic, a Craig Field game-winner, some cruel injuries, suspension mayhem, and much more! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Aug 16, 2023

In part two of our 1997 ARL recap we look at the battlers, the heavyweights, and everyone in between. From coaching drama in Campbelltown to a Tigers resurgence, Roosters on the rise, the miracle of the Chargers and much, much more! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Aug 1, 2023

In this instalment, we discuss the RLW Players' Q and A, performance-enhancing drugs, the Perth Reds, pokies taxes, schoolboy brawls, notable player scandals, Craig Field, Willie Peters, Paul McGregor, Tim Brasher, Tom Brock, Ken Shine, Craig Coleman and much more! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jun 28, 2023

Michael is joined by English labour historian and author of the upcoming Hope and Glory: Rugby League in Thatcher's Britain Anthony Broxton. In a wide-ranging and fascinating interview we look at the state of ENglish Rugby League before, during and after the disastrous 1997 World Club Challenge Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

May 17, 2023

The culmination of an unbridled and unmitigated disaster, a piece of ingenious club marketing, Graham Murray's impact on the Mariners, format issues, for and against taken to the extreme, Paris St Germain squalor, coaching carnage, London Broncos on the rise, Shaun Edwards and Heather Small, Richard Branson and London, the WCC finals, Renouf scores five, a lackluster grand final, the cold hard stats, disastrous crowds, yet another fact-finding report, passing the buck, the legacy of the competition and much, much more! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

May 10, 2023

In part two of this chapter on the WCC we discuss the relatively competitive round one results, Super League pinning their hopes on Wigan, Tallis vs O'Connor, the state of the UK Super League, Wigan vs Tescos, Bradford Bullmania, rating UK Super League stars, Perth's problems, John Ribot and Super League in damage control, an impromptu Brian Smith fan club meeting, jet lag scientists, blaming the media, blaming referees, and much, much more! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

May 2, 2023

In this much-anticipated chapter we discuss the genesis of the WCC concept, going from 8 teams to 22, arbitrary promotion expenditure, convoluted formatting, ignoring the lower grades, goals of globalisation, cavalier management, the players loving the concept, presenting it as 'cup football", Super League spin, obsession with travel, players in holiday mode, bonding sessions, Ridgey holds court, and much, much more! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mar 28, 2023

In this episode we discuss Super League's legacy on international rugby league, fireworks over developing nations, the Japanese pipe dream, an Anzac Day furore, Langlands defects to Super League, the Super League test vs City Country, eligibility farces abound, the Nikau vs Blackmore feud, NZ wins the test, a truncated UK tour, open letter news, referee controversy, the black mark of the asterisk on rep careers, ARL test matches, the embarrassing but arguable necessary Rest of the World reboot, NZRL playing footsies with the ARL, premature compromise ideas and much more! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mar 21, 2023

In this installment we discuss the abominable '97 Blues jerseys, Tom Raudonikis as coach, QLD feeling flat, spin galore, NSW hooking dramas, disappointing Orign crowds, the Aaron Raper incident, Daryl Rodgers, cattle dog, Chris Close the voice of reason, the Super League Tri-Series, scheduling mayhem, remembering Peter Jackson, spin cycles, Ribot Norton, the epic Tri-Series final, Noel Goldthorpe's career, Bill Harrigan's follies, the legacy of the Tri-Series, and much, much more! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 21, 2022

In this concluding episode of 'The Telstra Cup' we discuss the semi finals, ANZ Stadium, Princess Diana, Taking the grand final to Brisbane, grand final week celebrations, ET's stirring speech, the excellence of Bill Harrigan, our Olivia, Human Nature, our love for Steve Renouf, John Plath's contribution, Ray Warren's professionalism, the overall feeling of Super League's only domestic season and much, much more! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 6, 2022

In the penultimate episode of our 1997 Super League season recap we look at the grand finalists Cronulla and Brisbane. A likeable Sharks outfit up against a Broncos team looking for redemption after three seasons of disappointment. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 22, 2022

In this the third installment of chapter 34, we discuss Penrith in 1997, Gower the prodigy, Tony Puletua, Ryan Girdler being more than a super boot, an oddly in-depth debate on rugby league’s sexiest man, Matt Adamson, the Bulldogs season, their halfback woes, Hazem El Masri breaks out, hitman Haumono, Halligan the dealmaker, Steve Price, crowd violence, intra-familial disputes at the family club, Canberra’s decline, Mal taking the reigns, hookers galore, Mullins’ star falls, the greatness of Laurie Daley, Clyde and Stuart’s departures, Noa Nadruku insanity and much, much more! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 1, 2022

In this second installment of ‘The Telstra Cup’, we discuss the ill-fated Perth Reds through the lens of three genuine rugby league bad boys, Scott Wilson, Julian O'Neill and Mark Geyer. We discuss the tragedies, nuance, and the redemption arcs, both real and imagined, highlighting a very real human side to Super League War! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Oct 25, 2022

In the first installment of ‘The Telstra Cup’ we discuss the Cowboys, Tim Sheens and the coaching merry go round, player clean outs, John ‘Chicka’ Ferguson, The Adelaide Rams, Liz Dawson, Kevin Campion, being cast aside, the Warrior’s board, Phil Blake, Steve Kearney, Lee Oudenryn, the sacking of John Monie, the Warriors' financial woes, privatisation and much, much more! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sep 13, 2022

In this concluding episode of ‘Two Tribes’ we discuss the ARL's preseason trip to East Japan, the ARL World Sevens vs the Super League World Nines, Super League jersey designs and numbering system, a Baz Luhrmann opening night, underwhelming opening rounds, slippery balls, the ARL’s Yanni effect, mass ticket giveaways on both sides, Topper Stadium, Wonderland militants and much, much more! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sep 7, 2022

In part two of 'Two Tribes' we discuss the ad campaigns of both competitions, the ARL ramps up nostalgia, false anniversaries, Ron Casey lunacy, Super League goes all in on the sizzle, Cubby Checker, Dionne Warwick, Rodney O, great Aussie companies, hit and miss rules changes, the video referee, Hollywood Harrigan, the ARL's 40/20 rule, an Eric Cox update, and much, much more! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Aug 30, 2022

In this installment we examine rugby league's competitors in 1997, Stadium Australia, Paddington vs Homebush, contract fiascos, a trademarks quagmire avoided, football magazine wars, gossip mongers, petty radio squabbles, primitive Pay TV, The Footy Show, Channel 9's true colours, the juggernaut that is Water Rats, the downfall of Monday Night Football, and much, much more! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Aug 23, 2022

As we kick off season three, we see a clearing of the decks of some of the major players in the war to date, Cowley goes, Frykberg arrives, Ribot and Quayle stand down, and we reflect on Ribot and Quayle's legacies, Quayle's replacement Neil Whittaker, Arko steps down, but the hurt remains, interstate fighting, the ghost of Jeans West, Arko's amazing legacy and much, much more! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 17, 2022

Americanisation was a cultural buzzword inside and outside Rugby League during the Super League period, and American sport was an obvious influence on the presentation of the Super League vision. But what did it all mean? We break it down with academic and Rugby League fan Spencer Kassimir. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 11, 2022

The big one! Michael is joined by Super League fellow traveller Steve Mascord to discuss the war and his new, greatly anticipated book Two Tribes. RLD listeners can go to http://stevemascord.com/product/twotribes and enter product code "rugby league digest" for a great discount offer on Two Tribes discussed at the end of the episode. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 30, 2021

In the second and final episode of this chapter, we look at the fallout from News Limited's comprehensive court victory. It was a frenzied week of speculation following the judgment, with crisis talks at the ARL and in club boardrooms, possible club defections, yet another loyalty agreement, a pay-TV rescue package, and much more! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 16, 2021

The RLD takes an in-depth look at the appeal judgment, the lead up to the case, predictions, the court's interpretation competition, overturning nearly all of Justice Burchett's decision, the immediate courtroom reactions, Ray Hadley's public backflip, Arko's naive reaction to the result, the question of legality versus morality and much, much more! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 12, 2021

In this concluding episode of Chapter 30: The Optus Cup, we discuss the semi-final runs of Manly and St George, the post mortems for their victims, a surprisingly entertaining grand final despite popular sentiment, the infamous Manson blunder, John Raper's memorabilia fiasco and much, much more! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Oct 26, 2021

In this penultimate episode of the Optus Cup chapter we compare the seasons of the 1996 ARL grand finalists, we discuss Manly's veterans, the impact of unlimited interchange, the Lyons and Menzies combination, offer some overdue Daniel Gartner appreciation, discuss Manly's gun back row, Joey's "red hair" game, Rod Reddy's departure as Dragons coach and the impact of David Waite, Mark Coyne's leadership, "goose of the week" shirts, Dean Raper, nefarious 'Skull' plans, more claims of referee bias, Broncos accused of stacking players, Chang's tours, Saints legends sharing in the victory and much, much more! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sep 24, 2021

While we are immersed in the 1996 season it is time for a deep dive on Parramatta's buying spree and its failure to generate instant success, with former Wallaby and Gain Line Analytics founder Ben Darwin Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sep 16, 2021

In the second installment of Chapter 30, we discuss the Super League teams forfeiting round one in1996, Illawarra club turmoil, the Crushers failing on and off the field, South Sydney's abysmal record, Balmain punching above their weight, Sironen remaining a one club man, the 1996 awards season, David Farleigh, the last Rothmans medal, the RLW players poll, a mini hall of fame discussion on the year's retirees, a deeper look at Parramatta and their gigantic player splurge, Canterbury-Bankstown and the heroic legacy of Terry Lamb, the Super League Action Movement aka SLAM, and much. much more! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sep 8, 2021

It is part one of our 1996 season recap. In this episode we look at the state of the game in 1996. Rule changes, falling attendances, threats from AFL and rugby union, and the return of Monday Night Football. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jul 26, 2021

'Tarnished Gold' is a chapter highlighting the farcical nature of both sides of the war regarding the appalling treatment international football. We discus limbo, the City vs Country litmus test, reconnected state or origins squads, rebel teams, Fiji being used as a pawn, coup leader George Speight, cheapening international jerseys, the Rest of The World game abandoned, disastrous Great Britain Super League tour of PNG and New Zealand, and much more! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jul 7, 2021

To conclude our English miniseries, Michael is joined by the legendary Professor Tony Collins for an expansive look at the RFL's road to Super League, and the fallout afterwards. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jul 5, 2021

As a companion piece to our Chapeltown Road chapter of the Super League War, Michael chats to British labour historian Anthony Broxton about Thatcherism, striking miners, economic depression and how it all relates to Rugby League in England. Go to https://tidesofhistory.wordpress.com/ for more of Anthony's important work. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jun 27, 2021

The RFL receives a mammoth offer to defect to Super League, the ARL begs them to stay, clubs unanimously agree to the switch, then immediately revolt over proposed mergers, fans mobilise with the publication 'Merging on the Ridiculous', the ARL makes a hypocritical raid on English players ... all this against a backdrop of northern economic decline and British classism. A fantastic concluding episode of this chapter! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jun 10, 2021

English two of 'Chapeltown Road' the RLD discusses Engl rugby league in the 1980s. financial peril, expansion plans and at times lack thereof, teams in London, Kent and Carlisle, Australian imports, the bizarre history of the Golden Boot award, the legendary Wigan teams, Chorley, the need for structural change, Cliff Richard, The 'Framing the Future' report and much, much more! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jun 2, 2021

In this episode the RLD discusses the cultural idiosyncrasies of the English game, the lasting impact and legacy of the 1982 'Invincibles', comparing kangaroo tour squads, the British sporting psyche, fudging gate figures, fighting Paul Weller and The Jam, a golden generation of British players, a gulf in professionalism, the Larder report, Ryan Giggs' unwise career move, the brilliance of Garry Schofield and much, much more! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

May 11, 2021

The RLD is joined this week by a very special guest to discuss the incredible 1996 Challenge Cup Final between the Bradford Bulls and St Helens, Mike Mehall Wood is a brilliant journalist with a life long immersion in English rugby league and an inner circle view on the English Super League, the move to summer rugby league and indeed the impact of the war on the game as a whole, a must listen for every true rugby league fan Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Apr 26, 2021

Michael is joined by ABC Overnights host and Manly diehard Rod Quinn. We discuss the 1970s dynasty, power and influence in the 1980s, premiership glory in the 1990s, Super League, the Northern Eagles fiasco and more. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Apr 21, 2021

In this part three and concluding instalment of chapter twenty-seven ‘Together Again’, Michael and Andrew discuss historic cases of players sitting out including Dennis Tutty and Ron Coote, the irrepressible Matthew Ridge finding his way back to Manly, the mental toll of the war on Ian Roberts and an in depth look at the legendary Gordon Tallis “lost season”! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Apr 13, 2021

Michael sits down with former Magpies general manager Daniel Watson Hayes to discuss all things Western Suburbs. This was a long-planned interview brought forward in the wake of Tommy Raudonikis' sad passing, so we pay tribute to the legend before turning our eye over the last 40 years of Magpies history. The move to Campbelltown, the Wok-led resurgence, riding out the Super League war and entering an uneasy merger- all this and more in a fascinating interview. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Apr 5, 2021

In part two of this chapter we discuss the "player run" Plan B to Super League called Global League. question marks over its supposed independence, Super League players boycott round one 1996,Warriors have second thoughts, a Magpies vs Steelers blockbuster opener, the courts stopping global league, clubs backflip, paranoia abounds, Laurie Daley is a target for all and sundry, Super League referees not allowed back and much, much more! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mar 30, 2021

The gravity from Justice Burchett's decision reaches the players, and as the start of the 1996 ARL season draws near, there was still no indication that the Super League players were ready to return to the fold. In the first of three episodes on the events of March 1996, we look at how the players reacted and what it meant for the ARL competition. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mar 22, 2021

Chris Leeson is the host of a new podcast called BRL Moments in Time, a history of the Brisbane Rugby League competition. In an illuminating conversation Chris unpacks some of that history and gives us an insight into what we can expect from this very worthy project. BRL Moments in Time is available now, wherever you get your podcasts. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mar 16, 2021

In the concluding instalment of this chapter we delve into Justice Burchett's judgment, the damning appraisal of Super League and its key people, the court defining the market and what is meant by competition, the ARL celebrations, the physical and emotional toll on Arko, Super League's contingency plans, faux American entertainment, crippling court orders, reports and blueprints for the game, News Limited's odd compromise strategy, Optus says no to compromise talks, Foxtel uses Super Rugby as its methadone, a beautiful Ian Heads soliloquy and much, much more! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mar 9, 2021

In part one of this chapter we find the ARL and Super League at Federal Court appearing before Justice James Burchett, we discuss both sides' star studded legal teams, the key legal points, Super League trials, sponsor spats, on-field innovations, the success of the World Nines, Andrew unnerving Russell Crowe and much, much more! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feb 23, 2021

In the concluding installment of this chapter Michael and Andrew discuss the historic Gold Coast Sevens trophy, the fall of the Seagulls era and the meteoric rise of the Jeff Muller era, followed by its equally meteoric fall, we go behind the scenes of a disastrous 1996 campaign, discuss the emergence of Phil Economidis, Legendary footballing lawyer Mike Eden, Jeff Muller's post football career, The UFO hybrid game and much, much more! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feb 18, 2021

In this instalment of the Super League War the RLD analyses the seemingly impossible sporting landscape of the Gold Coast, the rushed inclusion of the Giants in 1988, setting the club up to fail, the Seagulls takeover and subsequent withdrawal, King Wally's reign as captain and coach, endless losses on and off the field, 'Save Our Seagulls', white knight entrepreneurs and much, much more! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feb 13, 2021

The Rugby League Digest returns with the first instalment of Season Two of 'The Super League War'. In this chapter Michael and Andrew discuss rugby league's propensity for court cases, the tangled three pronged approach to compromise, News Limited's questionable attitude to compromise, the impotence of various stakeholders, the Singleton plan, the naivete of Ken Arthurson, the true nature of Kerry Packer, Optus becomes the sticking point, Super League's launch, Graham Richardson reappears and much much more! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 8, 2020

In the final episode of season one of The Rugby League Digest's in-depth investigation into the Super League war, we present a case study on one of the clubs pivotal to the whole affair: the Canberra Raiders. Joining Michael and Andrew is former Raiders media manager and Canberra Times sports journalist Bevan Hannan. Bevan discusses the history of the club from the early struggles through to the glory years, before taking us through Super League intrigue from the inside and outside. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Oct 20, 2020

Master of creative, idiosyncratic Rugby League media and Balmain Tigers obsessive Steven Russo joins Michael to discuss jerseys, retro and the flagging fortunes of the Balmain Tigers in the 1990s. Super League, mergers and the legendary 1980s team are up up for discussion in a wide ranging chat. Don't forget to register for this year's Tom Brock Lecture (via Zoom) at www.tombrock.com.au. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Oct 6, 2020

Michael is joined by Adam Newman, co-host of the-running Sharks podcast SharkCast Radio. Newman discusses the mixed fortunes of Cronulla and their eventual decision to sign with Super League, as well as their prospects for long-term success and survival. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sep 29, 2020

Michael is thrilled to be joined by good friend of the show and host of the Hyper Thetic RL podcast David Hunter to discuss Parramatta's journey through the Super League war. From 80s powerhouse embarrassment, the war came at an interesting time for Parramatta, and we go through it all. Listen to Hyper Thetic RL at https://anchor.fm/hypertheticrl. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sep 8, 2020

The RLD welcomes journalist, and friend of the show, Nick Campton on to share his experiences writing an extraordinary and eloquent long form article on the North Sydney Bears and their stellar teams of the 1990's, we discuss the heart and soul of the club Greg Florimo, Mark Soden, Peter Jackson, Billy Moore, Matt Seers, Nick's Canberra Raiders fandom, background in journalism, and much more. Without hyperbole, Nick's colossal article is one of the greatest pieces of rugby league writing of all time. (Please see the RLD social media for the link). Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sep 1, 2020

We are honoured to be joined by the great Ian Heads, making his third RLD appearance to discuss the media fallout from the Super League war. As a longtime league writer for the Herald, Rugby League Week and through his many essential books, Ian had a box seat for some of the most seismic in the game's history, and graciously shares some of his experiences and memories. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Aug 24, 2020

Author of The Monthly article "The Art of Class War" Lech Blaine joins Michael to discuss his wonderful essay and put class in Rugby League into context- where it came from, whether it is still relevant and how it relates to Super League. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Aug 18, 2020

Former Wallaby prop and Gainline Analytics founder Ben Darwin joins Mick and Andy to discuss Rugby Union in a Super League context, the current problems of the code, as well as some fascinating stories from his life and career. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Aug 9, 2020

It's a Canterbury case study with Bulldogs fan and esteemed Rugby League journalist. We discuss the glory days, Super League and the 1995 season, their modern day woes and, of course, The Filthy Four, with the originator of the term. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Aug 2, 2020

Michael is joined for a crossover special with Michael Carbone and The Biggest Tiger from the Chasing Kangaroos podcast. We discuss the 1995 World Cup and its ramifications for the future of international Rugby League, as well as reflecting on personal memories on the Super League war and, for the two Michaels, a shared lament on the frustrations of being a Dragons supporter. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jul 26, 2020

Michael is joined by The NRL Economist @Ramy_Haidar for a deep dive into the most successful team of the 1990s, the Brisbane Broncos. In a wide-ranging discussion, we look at their origins, organisational strength, the keys to their on-field success, and yes- THOSE diamond jerseys. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jun 17, 2020

This is the final episode of season one of The Super League War. It has been an incredible journey through the year 1995 in rugby league. Fittingly, the end of the Winfield Cup era provided us with an enthralling year on the field culminating with a Super League vs ARL grand final. we discuss the season both on and off the field, a wonderful final series and the careers of some legendary players such as the great Terry Lamb. Thank you for listening, we look forward to season two! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

May 14, 2020

In 1995, international football was in as precarious a position as the game itself, in this episode we analyse the impact of the Super League war on the Rugby League World Cup, a largely ignored Supreme Court decision, international slanging matches, Arthurson vs Lindsay, truces, team mutinies, wasted opportunities to grow the game, the Huddersfield show, Diana Ross, the rise of the minnows, Matthew Ridge's amazing book, the coronation of Brad Fittler and much, much more! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Apr 28, 2020

In this chapter we discuss Super League's tenth franchise which was still undecided after the initial raids did not go to plan, Super League looking at some interesting candidates before settling on the Adelaide Rams, talks with the Crushers causes friction between the Broncos and News Limited, North Sydney hold a club wide honesty session, we examine the origins of the Adelaide franchise, Rod Reddy's peculiar coaching decision, the first court case wiping the Rams out for 1996 and much, much more! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Apr 15, 2020

In 1995 'Save Our Saints' started as a small group protesting the proposed merger between Easts and St George, eventually growing into a formidable movement numbering in the hundreds. In this episode, we examine the reasons for the failure of this proposed merger, the rise of Nick Politis, Michael's personal recollections of the period, Geoff Carr's tenure as CEO, the ARL getting cold feet and much more! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Apr 8, 2020

In this chapter Michael and Andrew discuss South Sydney's decline from powerhouse to paupers, corruption in leagues clubs, the Moffat Royal Commission, the fall of Souths Leagues and the rise of Souths Juniors, Darcy Lawler, the ultimate South Sydney man George Piggins, principles and paradox and much more! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mar 23, 2020

In this episode the RLD examines the state of rugby union in 1995 via the prism of rugby league, we look at News Ltd vs the WRC, finally letting go of amateurism, the history of classism between the codes, the impact of the 1987 World Cup, the allocution of rugby's administrators regarding professionalism, Simon LeBon gets involved, Phil Kearns' naivety, enough Peter Fitzsimons pomposity to last a lifetime, the rise and fall of Super Rugby and much, much more! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mar 1, 2020

Michael is joined by sports journalist and Panthers fan James Smith to discuss the decision of the Penrith Panthers to join Super League. The Panthers found themselves in a desperate fight to retain their standalone status in 1995, leading them to defection. Along the way they lost an all-time great of the game, and Michael and James cover it all. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feb 24, 2020

In this episode, we discuss the legendary 1995 State of Origin series, selection confusion, the ARL's snubbing of Super League players, the Blues taking QLD too lightly, the hiring of Paul Vautin as QLD coach, QLD's team of "Nevilles", Gavin Allen's unique situation, the mythical Queensland spirit, Billy Moore's iconic "Queenslander" call, pre-mediated fighting, the Queenslanders' unbreakable bond and much, much more! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feb 14, 2020

In this installment we discuss the contract craziness of April '95, the Steve Edmed story, Gus' role in creating that legend, Craig Coleman's windfall, contract top ups, the Bulldogs' Super League contracts, the filthy four's backflip to the ARL, Jarrod McCracken's nuclear heat with the Chris Anderson, Mathew Ridge poking the bear, and much more! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 30, 2020

In this instalment we discuss the infamous 1995 speech at Cronulla by retiring great Mal Meninga (now an immortal), vague promises of an ARL job, testimonial dinners, Mal signing with News Limited, an open letter by the surviving immortals, John Raper lashes out, reconciliation attempts being thwarted by a Grand Final snub, the older generation’s views on Super League and much, much more! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 23, 2020

In this instalment we discuss "the vision", the ARL's PR machine, Piers Akerman vs Fatso Vaughn, John Ribot's infamous Footy Show appearance, New Limited's media machine, Rugby League Week playing a straight bat, the heavy impact on print and broadcast journalism, lifelong friendships torn apart and much more! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 15, 2020

In this chapter, we discuss the infancy of Pay TV in Australia, the many "sliding doors" moments involving rugby league, the sheer power of Packer and Murdoch, the consortium that could have stopped the war, Pay TV's race for content, the Optus Vision grand final debacle and much, much more! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 21, 2019

In this episode the RLD examines Super League signing the game's top referees, the ARL's banning of the refs, the crushing defection of the English Rugby Football League, Maurice Lindsay's influence, The English switch to summer, NZ and the Warriors go as well, despite being a Super League afterthought, the beginnings of the Pacific revolution and much more! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 13, 2019

In this episode, the RLD dissects the pivotal signing of the Newcastle Knights to the ARL. We analyse the bungled Super League pitch, the role of the Knight's administration, Gus and Bozo , 'gee up' culture, Joey's signature, legendary coach and honourary Novocastrian Mal Reilly, 'Ausies for the ARL', the formation of the Hunter Mariners and much, much more! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Oct 30, 2019

Ricky Stuart, Andrew's all time favourite player (despite that unpleasant incident at Marathon Stadium in '94), was a key piece for Super League and a key piece for the ARL to target for a backflip. In this episode, we discuss the fall out from the Raiders' defection and the double standards over the meaning of loyalty. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Oct 24, 2019

The culmination of this fascinating chapter sees Michael return from a research rabbit hole with as many questions as answers. Who knew what? And when? "Oh, what a tangled web we weave when first we practice to deceive!". One thing is for certain, the game lost one of its true characters with the passing of the great Peter 'Bullfrog' Moore. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Oct 17, 2019

Part one of a spellbinding chapter on one of the game’s great characters. From helicopters at Belmore, his windowless office/lair, to the rich culture and track record of success and failure of the ‘family club’. Moore’s undeniable passion for his club, players and rugby league is juxtaposed against a reputation as a shrewd old school rogue Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sep 19, 2019

In this installment we discuss the ARL's marquee signing of Brad Fittler, money being thrown around like confetti, the effective strategy of quantity over quality, Bozo putting the squeeze on Matthew Ridge, an elderly lady abusing Ian Roberts, Chinese restaurants, and the rise and fall of footballing prodigy Adam Ritson. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sep 11, 2019

In this chapter we discuss the ARL getting wind of the raid, the key players in the fightback, how Optus Vision money hamstrung the ARL, Packer envoy Graham Richardson, the unbreakable bond between Arthurson and Quayle, Bozo and Gus' influence, and an unholy alliance with the player agents. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sep 4, 2019

War rooms, whiteboards, private jets, a major hiccup in Brisbane, comic relief in Auckland, in this installment we discuss the Super League recruitment strategies, flaws of the raid, and the great Graham Murray. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Aug 30, 2019

This is part one of Chapter Seven: Blitzkrieg. We discuss the disappearance of Star League, analyse Super League's "vision", the signing of key coaches, the machinations of the April Fools Day raids and much more! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Aug 20, 2019

In this instalment, we discuss the ARL's 1995 launch with music superstar Yanni, the ignominy of a supposedly triumphant opening weekend, the efforts of the expansion clubs, and Rupert Murdoch signing off on war! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Aug 13, 2019

In this chapter we discuss the impact of the World Sevens on Super League, the legendary meeting of February 6th 1995, Kerry Packer's threats and much, much more! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Aug 6, 2019

In this chapter, we discuss the last magnificent Kangaroo Tour, Ken Arthurson's dash back to Sydney for a confronting meeting with News Limited, legendary Kerry Packer reactions and much more! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jul 9, 2019

It’s 1994, and there is acrimony in the air. The Brisbane Broncos and the game’s administration are on a collision course. Differing philosophies, petty squabbling and some legitimate grievances lead us to the cusp of the most destructive period in the game’s history! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jul 2, 2019

In the final part of this chapter, we examine the gains and missteps of the ARL under Ken Arthurson, who wasted no time in dragging Rugby League into the present after taking over from his close friend Kevin Humphreys. For good and for bad, the path to Super League was in many ways paved by the decisions of the League in the 1980s. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jun 18, 2019

Michael and Andrew discuss the Kevin Humphreys era of the game, the move into the Winfield Cup era, the state of the game in 1983, and much more! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jun 11, 2019

Michael and Andrew analyse the lead up to the grand final, all the memorable on field action, compare some of the all time great backlines, and much more! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jun 4, 2019

In the penultimate instalment of our 1994 season recap, we look at the on field fortunes of the eventual grand finalists, Canterbury and Canberra, and go in-depth on a compelling finals series. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

May 28, 2019

A prelude to war, rugby league’s much loved 1994 season (part 2). Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

May 21, 2019

Welcome to the first episode of The Rugby League Digest’s in-depth investigation of the Super League War. We begin the saga by taking a deep dive into the season before the war, 1994. An historical high point for the game before it all came crashing down, in this first instalment of our season recap we put the game in context through the Rugby League Week player Q&As, review an impressive batch of footy cards (0:13:00) and recount an Alan Jones-fuelled power struggle at South Sydney (0:21:30). Finally, we look at the recruitment drives from the four new clubs entering the competition in 1995 (0:39:30), including the dismantling of Penrith’s premiership squad brought about by the tragic 1992 death of Ben Alexander (0:53:00). This episode is dedicated to his memory. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

May 15, 2019

With our all new Super League series beginning next week, we revisit an origin story fundamental to any understanding of the war: the formation of the Brisbane Broncos. From the competing bids to perpetual tension with the NSWRL and QRL, we explore all aspects of the casting of the die that would change Rugby League forever. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

May 7, 2019

The Rugby League Digest is back, and we are extremely excited to announce a new series taking a deep dive into the Super League war. From its origins to reunification and beyond, taking in the view from every angle, this is the definitive account of the saga that changed Rugby League forever. In this opening salvo, Michael and Andrew offer their personal thoughts and recollections on the War, before setting up the season ahead with a replay of our Ken Arthurson History Corner. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.