Episodes

4d ago

The Molecast is not paywalled but you can support its production by making a small donation at https://ko-fi.com/dementedmole — Munster confusion makes for a Christmas Turkey — Jeepers, pressure — Road wins — Glasgow statement — Ulster's vibe deserts them Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 11

You can support the Molecast's production by donating the cost of a cup of coffee at https://ko-fi.com/dementedmole — Ireland's Top Province: the one at the top of the country — The Way of Richie — Cohesion paying off — Leinster's Disparate Aims — One-man rucks and going open off 10 — Hard Times in Bath Town — AOB: Connacht, Ross Byrne, Goals from the Mark Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 4

Support the production of the Molecast by making a small donation at https://ko-fi.com/dementedmole — "World Cup wins are all alike; every World Cup exit is unhappy in its own way" — The Euro-African Seeding Jamboree begins — Ulster's time to shine — Leinster Offside Meltdown — Why keep the ball? — Big whinge Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 27

The Molecast is not paywalled, but you can support it's continued existence by donating to our Ko-Fi page for as much as a cup of coffee and significantly less than the price of a pint :P https://ko-fi.com/dementedmole There’ll be no World Cup then, I’ll tell the children — In Search of a Scrum Philosophy — The Bajada — Props and Game-Time — Game-Wrecking Cr**p — Backs Rugby vs Forwards Rugby — Boks Tactical Discipline — Emotional Ireland — Bundee's Rugby Mortgage — A “Successful November”? — Lessons from Dev — Going forward Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 20

Apologies for the poor sound quality on one of the microphones! — Support the Molecast at https://ko-fi.com/dementedmole — Ireland romp against Oz — Paddy Mac arrives fully formed — Sam's highs and lows — Baird's hard yards — Aussie woe — Northampton influence — Delectable Pumas — SA conspiracy Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 13

The Molecast is not paywalled but you can support it by donating at https://ko-fi.com/dementedmole — Skills and confidence ebbing — Lineouts, Attack, Defence, Kicking — Charismatic Strongmen all the way down — Possibles flow while Probables stutter — MacKenzie's Murrayfield Moments — Rassie and Siya's Mentality Monsters strike AGAIN Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 7

The Molecast is not paywalled, but you can support its production by making a small donation at https://ko-fi.com/dementedmole — Ireland's new normal: good in moments, largely stodgy, dodgy set piece — Counterpoint: actually quite good, all things considered? — Ringrose, lineouts, execution errors — Hyper-Rationalisation —Middle-Aged Man yells at cloud — "Friendlies" — Japan Selection Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Oct 22

The Molecast is not paywalled, but you can support its production by making a small donation at https://ko-fi.com/dementedmole — We've got our Jack back — McMillan's Munster — "It's a challenging start"... and we failed it — TYFPFFS — We might lose to Zebre, but think of the dramatic potential — Silver Linings Teamsheet — Ulster are back — Shohei Otani wears Tadhg Beirne pyjamas 🤪🤨🤠 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Oct 16

The Molecast is not paywalled, but you can support its production by making a small donation at https://ko-fi.com/dementedmole — What about my guy: an Irish squad selection story— Staleness on the horizon? — Leinster win again — Munster's calm waters — Ulster's beef — Slow burn season — Doak axe — Counterfeiting a code Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Oct 8

The Molecast is not paywalled, but you can support its production by making a small donation at https://ko-fi.com/dementedmole — Resource Management and Opportunity Knocking in SA — What makes a good season? — The World Cup Cycle begins now Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Oct 2

The Molecast is not paywalled, but you can support its production by making a small donation at https://ko-fi.com/dementedmole — Welcome to Q4 — Women's World Cup Regrets — Stellar Boks pushing the game forwards — Leinster almost achieve perfect set of 1/10 ratings in DHL — Jersey chat — Waiting around for the season to start Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Aug 1

Support the Molecast at https://ko-fi.com/dementedmole — Molecast Summer Symposium — The Lions Phenomenon — Rugby and Media Landscape — Ireland on Tour — U20s Catastrophe — Espoirs in NZ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jun 19

You can donate to the Molecast at https://ko-fi.com/dementedmole — Bulls neutered — Leinster Forwards just kept rollin’ — “This Means More” — Paean to Jordie — Sam puts his head where it hurts — U20s slide — The flying Bayonnais Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jun 12

You can support the production of the Molecast by donating at https://ko-fi.com/dementedmole — Leinster fight — Playing off 9 v playing off 10 — Line-kicking — Take Your Points (Reprise) — Bulls on parade — Finals rugby Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jun 6

You can keep the Molecast going by donating at https://ko-fi.com/dementedmole — Ireland squad, surprises, disappointments — Weaknesses at 1 and 9 — Leinster wander into familiar territory — Frawley SZN — Munster return to role of heroic losers — Molebag: Irish Lions' origins — Carlos Spencer at the Rub-a-Dub — The club game and professional players Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

May 30

Support the Molecast by donating at https://ko-fi.com/dementedmole Pt. 1: A first half of principles, a second half of realpolitik — Saints' selection gambit — UBB's kick game— Nika rides the bucking bronco Pt. 2: Molebag — DoR job description — Ulster report card — All time flankers — Substitution wrinkles — Who would you replace Leo with? — URC QFs Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

May 15

You can support the Molecast at https://ko-fi.com/dementedmole — LIONS LIONS LIONS — Who and why selections are made — How does this thing still exist — Will Aussie media be asking "Can they give a mercy try?" — Leinster still playing Northampton a week later — Crunch time in Musgrave — Opportunity knocks November edition Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

May 7

You can support the Molecast at https://ko-fi.com/dementedmole — (Another) Leinster post-mortem — Northampton's Plan — Blame Game — End Game — UBB shake off Toulouse ghosts Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Apr 30

You can help support the Molecast at https://ko-fi.com/dementedmole — A stark weekend for Irish provinces — The Ray Ridge accumulator comes in — Ulster green shoots in Shark attack — Leinster and their failed auditions — Connacht, home of false dawns — Munster chickens coming home to roost — Who are you rivals? — Hugh Cooney AIL Champ — Send you Molebag questions to dementedmole@gmail.com or DM us on Twitter or Bluesky Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Apr 23

You can donate to the Molecast at https://ko-fi.com/dementedmole — Rieko writes a new chapter — Selling the Leinster experience — David Humphreys: Terminator — Ulster squad gets a haircut — Mid-table Drama — Which way now, Leinsterman? — Munster screwed then victim-blamed, it's like people are trying to wind them up Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Apr 17

You can donate to the Molecast at our Ko-Fi page https://ko-fi.com/dementedmole — Rors gets over the hump — Leinster hand out Lesson No. 2 — Sam P's Kick/Pass/Run —Franco Smith's blessing — UBB and Kevin Keegan — Munster disappoint everyone — Justice for Mehrtens — David Humphreys Leinsternomics — N.B. This episode was recorded before Wednesday morning's news glut! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Apr 10

Support the Molecast at https://ko-fi.com/dementedmole — How to judge a Leinster thrashing — Competing Philosophies, Decision Making, Filing Systems — Munster Cup Magic — The Craig Casaissance — Never ending downward spiral — The Big and Little Men of Ulster — QF chat — Show them everything Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Apr 4

Donate to the Molecast at https://ko-fi.com/dementedmole — Half Back, Half Forward — Jack Murphy : George Ford — Ioane leads Connacht in floundering — Casey and Crowley control — L’opportunité c’est f*cking enormé pour Munster — Frawley slumps — Leinster love tackling — Saracens withdraw — Fixing the Champions Cup Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mar 26

Support the Molecast at https://ko-fi.com/dementedmole — A civilian in Loftus — End-game strategy — Whither Player Welfare? — URC close season: who will grab it? — Crowley's contract options — Mayo for Rugby Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mar 21

Perspective and Tempered Optimism — Ireland’s Conditioning — Where was the threat? — Rushed Referees — Doak Disasterclass — Opportunity Knocks: Summer Tour Edition — ‘Rock squeeze ‘Nure Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mar 13

You can support the Molecast at https://ko-fi.com/dementedmole — The Post-Mortem of Ireland v France & The Post-Mortem of _People_ talking about Ireland v France — La France est arrivé — Could it have been different — What's coming through — Dupont's bad break Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mar 7

Support the Molecast at https://ko-fi.com/dementedmole — Ireland vs France — 6/2 and 7/1 bench cost benefit analysis — Marshalling the General — Managing the Emotions — A shot at history — The ball is not round and the game lasts 80 minutes — "You could be a man!" Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feb 27

Support the Molecast at https://ko-fi.com/dementedmole — Walking into an ambush — How good were Wales, how good were Ireland? — Kicking Ireland — TYP Dan — Sick Nations — It was "A" game, I suppose — Ross to boss Gloucs Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feb 12

Support the Molecast at https://ko-fi.com/dementedmole — Ireland shrug aside any doubts in Murrayfield — Idle hands are the worst selectors — Sam Prendergast Fuss Audition — France let the moment slip — Garlands for Gats — Calis gwenwynig Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 29

Support the Molecast at https://ko-fi.com/dementedmole — This one is about the Six Nations Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 23

The Champions Cup's unsquarable circle — Munster thrill but narrowly miss — Leinster's pass Bath test, fail pass test — The value of Dupont vs. the value of not giving up Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 17

Support the Molecast at https://ko-fi.com/dementedmole — Consistency or conservatism in Irish Squad? — Agent Rabah — Enjoying Leinster Muscle in La Rochelle — Munster's Magical European Nights — Ulster failings — A changing game? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 8

You can support the Molecast at https://ko-fi.com/dementedmole — For Episode #150, we put a call out to listeners to submit questions for the first ever Molebag series. Thanks to all the listeners who submitted questions. We got to many of them, but there are some we didn't get around to. Fear not, we'll keep everything on file for a future dip into the Molebag. Thanks very much for the support and listenership over 150 episodes. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 18, 2024

You can support the Molecast at https://ko-fi.com/dementedmole — Munster disappoint after bright new start — The Gleeson Conundrum — Leinster’s “Juega de Posición” — Structure vs Autonomy — Crunch time for Ulster and Munster — More Magners! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 12, 2024

You can support the Molecast at https://ko-fi.com/dementedmole — Provincial Report Card — Munster rejuvenated by coaching ticket and PO'M renaissance — Leinster's Bomb Squad — Ulster's bum note — Connacht's Big Show Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 5, 2024

You can support the Molecast at https://ko-fi.com/dementedmole — Ireland huff and puff — The inexplicable fall-off in skills execution — Expanded depth and competition — Changes behind the scenes — Who will stick up their hand and say “pick me” — Europe and Rugby losses Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 28, 2024

Support the Molecast at https://ko-fi.com/dementedmole — Ireland dominate Fiji — Sam for the Bold Step, Gus for Prez — The Selection Questions: safe and steady vs time to experiment — Whisper it Quietly: the Scots are real — What does Faz leave for Easterby? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 22, 2024

You can support the Molecast at our Ko-Fi page https://ko-fi.com/dementedmole — Ireland's dissatisfaction in victory — Where have the basics gone awry? — We need to talk about the lineout — Marginal losses — Keep it simple, stupid — Knives out for Gatland — Trust in Joe — Le Spectacle, Le Razz-ma-tazz — Shh, don't tell the soccer lads — Springboks supreme, Kolbe class Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 13, 2024

Support the Molecast at https://ko-fi.com/dementedmole — Ireland drop the ball literally — Ireland drop the ball metaphorically — Play better? — Ref fest — Juga, juga rugby — That's just how we play, mate Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 7, 2024

Support the Molecast at https://ko-fi.com/dementedmole — Did Rowntree jump... or was he pushed? — Who calls the tune and who picks the team — The production line vs the winning streak — It's an art, not a science — Baseball fundamentals — Movie review (It's Moneyball, again) — Ireland vs ABs, let's gooooooo Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Oct 23, 2024

Support the Molecast at https://ko-fi.com/dementedmole — Faz's last Ireland squad for a year 😢 — Is this the time to "experiment"? — Ulster are free — Munster's annual funk — Big Rudy and Posh Robots Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Oct 17, 2024

Support the Molecast at https://ko-fi.com/dementedmole — The Croke Park Screwjob... Leinster screw the fans out of a contest by winning the game after 14 minutes — Leinster go to 20/24 in the Cullen era against Munster — What is a Nienaber defensive system? — Experimental Law Ideas — Stephen Archer gets legitimately called a role model — It's Ben Murphy time Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Oct 10, 2024

Support the Molecast at https://ko-fi.com/dementedmole — Emerging Ireland. Emerging Sam — The Ginger Genius's Moment To Shine — Munster win it inside a minute — Connacht the Entertainers — Croker Fever (slowly) begins to bubble Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Oct 2, 2024

Support the Molecast at https://ko-fi.com/dementedmole — Munster go down in Parma, but what of it? — Leinster and the endless squad management — Connacht and the quest for the big kick — The rapid revival of the Ireland Women — Aoife Wafer's BOD-in-Paris performance — Woeful Wallabies and the Rugby Championship — Cian Healy Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sep 25, 2024

Support the Molecast at https://ko-fi.com/dementedmole — It's URC week 1, so what better time to talk about the post-season — When does the season *really* start? — Young guns go for it, then go to South Africa — The English want in — John Jeffrey done dirty Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sep 11, 2024

Support the Molecast at https://ko-fi.com/dementedmole — "Rugby's Greatest Rivalry" — NZ falter in SA — Tours vs global jamboree — A fractured game — The good doctor Felipe's Mean Medicine — Aussies adrift Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jul 20, 2024

Support the Molecast at https://ko-fi.com/dementedmole — What even are winning and losing, when you think about it? — Ciarán Frawley and the way he could kick a ball — We have the mental — Now they know our name — A word for Beaudie 😍 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jul 11, 2024

Support the Molecast at https://ko-fi.com/dementedmole — Ireland's narrow defeat in Pretoria and what to read from it — England's missed opportunity — The closing gap between North and South — Nucifora's exit statement to Irish rugby Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jul 4, 2024

Support the Molecast at https://ko-fi.com/dementedmole — A complete lack of understanding of the South African sense of humour — Testing conditions — Sam Berman's Ireland — DuPont continuing genius — Who is the Cruyff of Glasgow — Damien MacKenzie, Spinaroonies and the 7.35am kick off slot Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jun 21, 2024

Support the Molecast at https://ko-fi.com/dementedmole — Leinster's frustrating, recurring nightmare — A lack of overall vision, or a tight defeat in a tough game — Munster's big, big, big regrets — Peter Armani Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jun 13, 2024

Support the Molecast at https://ko-fi.com/dementedmole — Munster do the job — Van Graan's Renaissance — Big Game Ulster — Leinster: boring and bottling — A narrative vs a bunch of stuff that happened — Any redemption in Pretoria? — Emerging Ireland tour challenges Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jun 7, 2024

Support the Molecast at https://ko-fi.com/dementedmole — The XL rugby season — URC format and compromises — Who is in Leinster's head: Ulster? Themselves? Leinsterfans? — Outhalf conundrum, pt. 4 — Harry's Real World — The Sexton Succession — The O'Mahony Succession — AOB Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

May 29, 2024

Please support the Molecast at https://ko-fi.com/dementedmole — Lionel Messi is the "Antoine Dupont of Soccer" — Jouez jouez? Non! Kickez les points — Leinster and the eternal corner gambit — The Wizard of Oz outhalves conundrum — Omerta and Rugby Values — Carley disasterclass Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

May 22, 2024

You can support the Molecast at https://ko-fi.com/dementedmole — Leinster's bungles at Ravenhill — We need to talk about Harry — ... and Luke — European Royalty and Cup Final Rugby — Leinster's selection questions — Depth and expectations for the future Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

May 16, 2024

You can support the Molecast at https://ko-fi.com/dementedmole — Building something at Ulster — Munster turn on the razzle dazzle — Peaking for the hard ground season —The Fabulous O'Brien Brothers — Top 14 Watch — A little bit of final fever breaks out... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

May 8, 2024

Support the Molecast at https://ko-fi.com/dementedmole — All about the destination — A tournament that succeeds in spite of its organisers — Reflections on Croker — Kudos to Northampton — ... and to Leinster! — Don't take it for granted Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

May 1, 2024

You can support the Molecast at https://ko-fi.com/dementedmole — Munster relish the touring life — Leinster struggle in Africa — Any win will do for Ulster — Connacht and coaching experience — Chasing The Sun — The South African Challenge Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Apr 26, 2024

Support the Molecast at https://ko-fi.com/dementedmole — Let me blunt, are we facing a labor crisis — The "broken" system — Central Contracts and hot air — Communes, Cantons and Confederation — Whither the project player Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Apr 17, 2024

Support the Molecast at https://ko-fi.com/dementedmole — That was the day — Leinster’s Width vs The Gambler’s Defence — Importance of the pool win — La Rochelle’s Slump — Ego trip to Cork — Corporate strategy and the Quiet Man — A saga to be continued Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Apr 4, 2024

You can support the Molecast by donating at https://ko-fi.com/dementedmole — Leinster's Good Friday Rodeo — Attacking flair vs system — Milne, O'Toole, Kitschoff — Connacht's hard times — European uncertainty ahead Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mar 27, 2024

You can donate to the Molecast at our Ko-Fi page https://ko-fi.com/dementedmole — This is Ulsterchat with your host, Michael Chat — Blazers, Suits and Tracksuits, Rd. 2 — The league with a hole in it — Go the game — UEFA, Rammstein and Croker Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mar 23, 2024

Please support the Molecast at https://ko-fi.com/dementedmole — Ireland dealing with the target on their back — Scotland park the bus — A long look at the big graph — How do we make the lines start pointing up again? — Don't lose sight of the achievement Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mar 13, 2024

If you enjoy the Molecast, please support us at https://ko-fi.com/dementedmole — Dominating the details vs. too many mistakes — The Six-Two Injury Dilemma costs big — A reminder: this is hard — AWOL Ulster and Richie's opportunity — EEEEE TALLLL YAAAH — You fill up my senses Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mar 7, 2024

You can support the Molecast on https://ko-fi.com/dementedmole — A meditation on a single topic: how will England end up with more points than Ireland when the final whistle goes on Saturday — Statistical correlation — Things just "clicking" — Connectedness, cohesion, set piece and ticker Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feb 29, 2024

You can support the Molecast at https://ko-fi.com/dementedmole — Ireland continue to settle the score against Wales — Giving the performance its due — English Jujumen lying in wait? — France and Cosmic Rugby Justice — Atmosphere, "real fans", etc Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feb 22, 2024

Support the Molecast at https://ko-fi.com/dementedmole — Tempting fate or speaking truth — Gruesome metaphors for beating Italy — Did we mention that we love the Six Nations? — Mutual Malaise at Ulster — Mr Ulster to the rescue? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feb 7, 2024

You can support the Molecast at https://ko-fi.com/dementedmole — Ireland's masterclass out of touch — Finding strong points, then finding weak points — Turns out missing the best player in the world is a disadvantage — A new load of faces and names to argue about into the future Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feb 2, 2024

You can support the Molecast at https://ko-fi.com/dementedmole — Ireland go 6-2 — France not so jouez-jouez — A brief interlude about rugby documentaries — Can Ireland avoid disappointment? — Something about the other teams — Roll on the Six Nations! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 26, 2024

You can support the Molecast at https://ko-fi.com/dementedmole — We have to talk about Ulster — Anything to be said for more Leinster matches for the lads to go to? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 18, 2024

Support the Molecast at https://ko-fi.com/dementedmole — A "Win Today, Win Tomorrow" selection from Farrell — A hard club to join — The outhalves question — Old Captain Pete and his voodoo — ... and his contract — The Munster No. 8 factory — A tribute to JPR Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 21, 2023

You can support the Molecast at https://ko-fi.com/dementedmole — Provincial Vibe Check — Leinster's use of resources — This ship has two captains — Munster's Munsening won't spoil holidays — Connacht, errrrr — Stocking full of coal for Ulster? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 14, 2023

Support the Molecast at https://ko-fi.com/dementedmole — Leinster's starting and finishing — Leo, the Capo — My gawd, that's Ciarán Frawley's music! — Dan McFarland and Tony Soprano — R̶o̶l̶o̶ ̶T̶o̶m̶a̶s̶s̶i̶ Massimo Cuttita — Home advantage Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 30, 2023

You can support the Molecast at https://ko-fi.com/dementedmole —Leinster's "moral defeat" — Our new S&C Guy — The Big 10 question — Tackle technique Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 22, 2023

Support the Molecast at https://ko-fi.com/dementedmoleBlue Machine rolls back into town... with work-ons — Young pups and old stagers — A Carton House Christmas — The return of An Clasaiceach Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 16, 2023

Support the Molecast at https://ko-fi.com/dementedmole After the flow, the ebb (at Rodney Parade) — The "Irish Style" — Young guns, depth and competition — A dream of a new away ground — Grow the Game vs Tend the Game Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 8, 2023

You can suport the Molecast at https://ko-fi.com/dementedmoleThe tale of two Australian hookers. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Oct 27, 2023

Support the Molecast at https://ko-fi.com/dementedmoleWORLD CUP WEEK 7!Joe, Cheiks and Felipe — There's ruthlessness and there's just being really, really awful — Don't need a weatherman to know that England are just going to boot the ball — Pick your Boks team and get it wrong — Prediction time Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Oct 18, 2023

Support the Molecast at https://ko-fi.com/dementedmoleWORLD CUP WEEK 6!Familiar feelings, new feelings — The winning and the losing of it — Team of heart — The Draw and the Semis — Rassie you sumbitch — The Incredible Boks — That's why it hurts so much Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Oct 11, 2023

You can support the Molecast at https://ko-fi.com/dementedmoleWORLD CUP WEEK 5!The worm turned — Walking the walk — Bumps and bruises (mental and physical) — The opposition — Paris in Autumn — The Boks and their backs — Isn't it? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Oct 4, 2023

Support the Molecast at https://ko-fi.com/dementedmole WORLD CUP WEEK 4! World Cup Silly Season — Formats, bloat and growing the game (except in Italy) — Tiebreakers and integrity — The ABs back in the groove — Ireland vs Scotland *objectively* Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sep 27, 2023

Support the Molecast at https://ko-fi.com/dementedmoleWORLD CUP WEEK 3! The precipitous decline Eddie Jones — the worst Wallabies — how did Ireland *not* lose? — what does it all mean — the Scrum Half of the Opera Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sep 21, 2023

Support the Molecast at https://ko-fi.com/dementedmoleWORLD CUP WEEK 2! Does talking about the 7/1 split mean Rassie's already won? — How do you attack the Boks? — Taking "responsibility" — Huge opportunities in Groups C and D — World Cup Fever Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sep 15, 2023

Support the Molecast at https://ko-fi.com/dementedmole ❤️ 🏉 📡WORLD CUP WEEK 1!Ireland's selection policy — Pacific Island half backs — "CMR" and Ingerlund Mentality — People's Democratic Republic of World Rugby — Beating the South African Squeeze Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sep 9, 2023

Better late than never - your final pre-RWC Molecast (recorded earlier this week). Wild predictions to follow! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Aug 30, 2023

You can support the Molecast at https://ko-fi.com/dementedmoleThe Molecast returns to feast on the Rugby World Cup warm-ups matches and wake-up calls, the performances of the Pacific island teams, Faz's political capital and uncontroversial squad and of course, England. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jun 2, 2023

You can support the Molecast at https://ko-fi.com/dementedmole1) A conversation reviewing Munster's season becomes a conversation about absolutely everything2) Team Farrell and the importance of Tonga Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

May 24, 2023

You can support the Molecast at https://ko-fi.com/dementedmole. Stade Rochelais taste Euro-victory in Dublin to retain the Heineken Champions Cup.1) What was the winning and losing of the game? 2) Where are Leinster after two seasons full of near misses and at the end of the Lancaster era? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

May 18, 2023

Support the Molecast at https://ko-fi.com/dementedmole 1) Munster's biggest win in a decade at Lansdowne 2) Leinster's questions Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

May 12, 2023

You can support the Molecast at https://ko-fi.com/dementedmole1) Terenure claim their first All Ireland League title in a game that makes us think fundamentally about how to win rugby matches 2) Can the gap between the best amateurs and the academies be bridged? 3) How does Leinster vs Toulouse look from another week on? 4) Connacht - it's not how you start, it's how you finish Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Apr 28, 2023

You can support the Molecast at https://ko-fi.com/dementedmole | Does Dan McFarland need a re-brand, a new challenge, a hug, or a senior coach? Why no love for the Ulstermen who finished second in the URC? | Leinster vs Toulouse is too close to call, but that doesn't mean we can't lay into the EPCR a bit for old times' sake | Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Apr 19, 2023

1) Munster travel to Stormers and pick up a classic road victory — but don't worry, the Moles' praise is tempered with some concerns over their back division.2) The Sam Prendergast Hype Train™️ has left the station, calling at all stops until the Rugby World Cup Final3) Jacques Nienaber is the surprise announcement as Leinster's "Senior Coach" after the RWC Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Apr 6, 2023

Support the Molecast at https://ko-fi.com/dementedmole"How do Leinster get to Carnegie Hall?" "Demographics!" Tough camparisons this weekend for Ulster and Munster but this isn't time to Break Up The Dubs. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mar 24, 2023

You can support the Molecast at https://ko-fi.com/dementedmoleThe Grand Chelem Pod! #FREED #FROM #DESIRE Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mar 15, 2023

Support the Molecast at https://ko-fi.com/dementedmoleA whole lotta heapin' goin' on: Praise for Ireland and scorn for England. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mar 5, 2023

Support the Molecast at https://ko-fi.com/dementedmoleA better late than never Molecast on the excellent Italian game, what promises to be a barnburner in Murrayfield next weekend and a... eh... preview of the Edinburgh v Leinster game Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feb 18, 2023

Support the Molecast at https://ko-fi.com/dementedmoleI. The big Ireland vs France discussion: how it went downII. Welsh rugby plumbs new depths Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feb 8, 2023

Support the Molecast at https://ko-fi.com/dementedmole 😉1) Ireland dispell Warren's voodoo with a series of rugby events2) Have our U20s finally found the kind of mutant beef on which to build our future3) What's the difference between "being good at nothing" and "not being good at anything"?4) France's meaningless away form and the fit and fighting Italians Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feb 2, 2023

Support the Molecast at https://ko-fi.com/dementedmole1) Warren gives us the heebie-geebies! The big man's aura looms over Ireland's opening Six Nations clash — or maybe he won all his tournaments in non-vintage years 😉2) Fin Russell to kick Scotland to victory of the Injured English? One of us thinks so3) Eddie mines the Aussie digger mentality Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 27, 2023

Support the Molecast at https://ko-fi.com/dementedmoleLive in one take from a kitchen table:1) The phoney war of the group stages ends, and the real war begins - in two months' time2) Mid-table Munster on the up, but suffering from institutional failings3) Going in on Connacht, for some reason4) Duane Vermeulen's Saturday Night Lights Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 20, 2023

Support the Molecast at https://ko-fi.com/dementedmole1) Ireland Six Nations squad selection and the de-throning of Joey2) Eddie Jones mate3) Rowntree not taking any shit Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 12, 2023

Support the Molecast at https://ko-fi.com/dementedmoleI. Ulster's kryptonite is not being able to listen to the Molecast for 6 weeksII. Munster gorge on a strict diet of low-hanging fruitIII. Leinster almost lose and it's funIV. Ireland in the Six Nations: could it be sh*t? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 30, 2022

Support the Molecast at https://ko-fi.com/dementedmoleI: Eddie Jones is hiding his plans for the Rugby World Cup better than any of his rivalsII: Would Warren go back to Wales and what would it achieve?III: Australia are an RWC dark horse — when they aren't all injuredIV: In praise of High King Josh Van Der Flier Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 18, 2022

Support the Molecast at https://ko-fi.com/dementedmoleAre Australia a banana peel with Kryptonite embedded into it? Or are Ireland just on a long upwards trajectory and the Wallabies on a long slow dive?Were New Zealand ever really about to lose to Scotland? Why did they go back to the formula that decidedly didn't work during the summer? And do they have a complex about visiting Fortress Twickenham HQ in this hotly anticipated test match?Lastly: the Boks, will they ever learn? 😂 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 10, 2022

Support the Molecast at https://ko-fi.com/dementedmoleDoes the World-Cup-Cycle give Ireland's powerhouse win over the Boks more meaning, or was it just a bit of a classic slobberknocker on a Saturday night?Why did Ireland 'A' miss the point so badly at the RDS?Also: Fiji selections, Australian revival and Perilous Pumas! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Oct 28, 2022

Support the Molecast at https://ko-fi.com/dementedmole1) Is that smell coming from the Ulster dressing room or the URC boardroom?2) Move over Bundee, Mackenzie Hansen is the new King of Connacht3) Crowley should be in the squad (woah-ooo-woah)4) Meeting the physical level of the Saffa teams5) The Blue Machine ticks onwards Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Oct 21, 2022

Support the Molecast at https://ko-fi.com/dementedmoleIreland's international squad has precious few surprises: what can you expect when you win a test series in New Zealand? Britain in Crisis! The Premiership bluster sees them lose as many clubs as Prime Ministers. Where were will it end? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Oct 13, 2022

Support the Molecast at https://ko-fi.com/dementedmoleWe're doling out high praise for the internationals who brought their A game in the instant classic between Leinster and the Cell C Sharks at the RDS. Who plays what role in Munster's off-field team as they struggle to define short-term and long-term goals?And finally the Emerging Ireland tour that no one can agree about, other than that it's good to win in a big rugby country like South Africa. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Oct 6, 2022

Support the Molecast at https://ko-fi.com/dementedmoleLeinster's wet weather excellence against Ulster; someone defends the Emerging Irish tour; tough schedules in the URC and The Top 14 becoming Le Premier League du Rugby. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sep 29, 2022

Support the Molecast at https://ko-fi.com/dementedmoleMunster are back at the big well of woe and we use a number of metaphors to explore what's wrong. Elsewhere: Luka Modric and the PhD in tackling, a Mark E Smith reference(!), and Ulster vs Leinster HYPE HYPE HYPE. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sep 23, 2022

Support the Molecast at https://ko-fi.com/dementedmoleRugby didn't stop while we were on our break so there's plenty to talk about: 1) Are we seeing the last of the Stewsdays at Leinster? 2) After an anomalous and clunky first year, the URC looks like a meaner, tougher competition that's less forgiving for the young 'uns. 3) What's the craic with Emerging Ireland?4) The Premiership and what makes people go to rugby matches?Oh and don't think Raynal didn't get both barrels in an X-RATED, expletive laden coda. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jul 21, 2022

Support the Molecast at https://ko-fi.com/dementedmoleStill somewhat unbelieving of Ireland's incredible achievement in New Zealand, the Moles gather remotely to discuss the *serious vibes* of the tour embodied by Rob Herring just going for the line and getting there when it seemed so unlikely.We look at NZ's relative lack of structure, the diminishing power of their front five, and whether Foster can survive, or whether the Graham Henry Bootroom Era has to come to an end. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jul 13, 2022

Support the Molecast at https://ko-fi.com/dementedmoleIreland beat the All Blacks in the land of the long white cloud with a performance that overcame frustrations from the first two tour matches, showed both toughness and guile and leaves us asking very legitimately: can we win the series?We ask the big questions about where this non-vintage All Blacks team is going?And we finally we ask what LEARNINGS can taken (by both team and commentariat) from a very heartening victory of the Māori All Blacks in Wellington on the tour's last mid-week game. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jun 30, 2022

Support the Molecast at https://ko-fi.com/dementedmoleIreland stink up Kirikiriroa with a rudderless and disciplineless performance against the Māori All Blacks: catastrophe or opportunity for LEARNINGS? Also, what's wrong with rugby generally. But seriously, Ireland were so bad we didn't even get around to talking about the test match this weekend. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jun 22, 2022

You can support the Molecast at https://ko-fi.com/dementedmoleWe take a look at how Ireland's actual touring party to New Zealand compares with what was predicted before surveying the landscape of winners and losers in the recent weeks of cup match rugby: Leinster's defeat to the Bulls, Leicester's shit-on-a-stick win over Saracens and Castres' ability to squeeze out the rugby royalty of Toulouse. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jun 1, 2022

Support the Molecast at https://ko-fi.com/dementedmoleThe One Where Leinster Lose The Final: How it happened? what is its significance? Where next? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

May 26, 2022

Support the Molecast at https://ko-fi.com/dementedmoleTwo Leinster matches to consider 1) the rotated squad turning over Munster in the URC dead rubber that still has profound implications2) the front-liners out to put some ghosts to bed against La RochelleMAH GAWD THAT'S WILL SKELTON'S MUSIC Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

May 19, 2022

Support the Molecast at https://ko-fi.com/dementedmoleThe Moles chow down on the semis, the final, Leinster, La Rochelle, playing principles, 130kg props, departing coaches and replacements, Alex Soroka's hair and 10 minutes on why you should name your awards something cool. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

May 11, 2022

A big snotty post-QF roundtable:1) Munster v Toulouse: a clash of styles for the ages2) Leicester v Leinster: Tigers back at the big table but no longer the alpha predator in Europe3) Are Toulouse's monster pack Leinster Kryptonite or sick of getting on planes and running around the pitch?4) La ROGelle vs Racing: côte du bœuf vs croissants5) Bizarre listing of French clubs we like and one of us really can't stand Montpellier Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Apr 29, 2022

First up, it's the big NZ squad selection chat. Are there really such things as bolters?Secondly we talk about Ulster's slide after so much recent progress.Lastly we chat AIL Final briefly as Terenure look to shock Clontarf and round off an incredible year for the Lakelands outfit. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Apr 7, 2022

Three Tributes:1) Dan Leavy — what a goddamn player2) A consummate Leinster performance, their best of the season, obliterates their opponents on Saturday night3) Pints at the game and alickadoos farting Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mar 16, 2022

Support the Molecast at https://www.ko-fi.com/dementedmole/After smashing the English at Fortress HQ with a bonus point and by a record margin not even achieve in the annus mirabilis of 2018, much of commentary focused on Ireland's flaws and celebrated England's moral victory — when did the script get so flipped?Wales vs France was a grizzled test match that our purists adored. A Wales low on talent but high on guts vs a French team high on talent but low on "ambition". We ask simply, how good are France?Also shouts out to our new favourite human missile Aitzol King and Ireland's general standing in world rugby. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feb 25, 2022

With no BIG MATCH to talk about, we get into the weeds talking about DEPTH and whether it really makes that much of a difference, or is it just a desire for change for changes sake to get your province's man into the jersey? Carbery, Coombes, Baloucoune and bulky meaty fleshlumpeaters are all discussed. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feb 16, 2022

Is Joey Carbery not just the successor but a real competitor to Johnny Sexton after a lauded performance in Paris, or is the Emperor standing 10 yards behind the gainline, putting up weak garryowens and not sticking to the gameplan?The eternal match situation debate: go to the corner and maul satisfyingly over the pack who've disrupted your lineout and out-physicalled you all day, or take yer bloody points? Honourable mentions to xP, The I Am An All Black Fallacy and the Mole's own epitaph.Elsewhere, the U20 Grand Slam dream is alive and Luigi Garbisi appears, so maybe the big brother should be called Mario now? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feb 9, 2022

It's 80+ minutes of audio balm put rub on your tired Six Nations muscles.Were the Wales team that Ireland put to the sword dismal or were Ireland just that good? And what is it that's so good about this Ireland team (hint: it's definitely running straight :P )France and Italy was a predictable result but with lots to interest the Ireland fan with an eye on next week. Is France's team still to reach maturity?Is Eddie Jones's 4D chess the beginning of a new team or the beginning of the end? For us the answer is simple enough... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 27, 2022

A scattershot journey through a week of rugby football union: I. "Be nice to refs!" [/Owen Doyle voice]II. Which way does the stream of influence flow between Leinster and a Leinster-led Ireland?III. Do Ulster have the legs to go long in Europe?IV. Can Ireland win another Six Nations 18 months away from a Rugby World Cup to prove, eh, nothing to nobody? V. Scotland, whisper it, are dark horses.Support The Molecast at https://ko-fi.com/dementedmole Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 20, 2022

Andy Farrell names an Ireland squad that everyone pretty much thinks is great and we still find some room to squabble over omissions and inclusions.One Mole saw Munster's win away at Castres B as a season defining event while another Mole saw Leinster's facile tryfest against Montpellier J5s as a harbinger of doom for the hollow shell of the European Cup.There's also a glowing tribute to Auch, Jacques Fouroux and the depth of French rugby and suggestion of a URC based cryptocurrency to run a salary cap across four jurisdictions. You read it here first.Support the Molecast at https://ko-fi.com/dementedmole Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 14, 2022

Munster and Ulster traded awful defeats over the sparse Christmas period, but public patience seems to have run out for Johann van Grann: we assess where they go from here with their promising youth. Elsewhere COVID has laid waste to Leinster's season and the Champions Cup — how will that affect a Leinster-led Ireland, and is European rugby worth saving in its current form?Support the Demented Mole: https://ko-fi.com/dementedmole Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 16, 2021

Van Going Going Gaaaan: The JvG era announces that it is coming to an end in summer 2022. What does Johann's report card look like as he prepares for his Leaving?A good weekend for the provinces is wrapped up, but with the sneaking suspicion that something is a little awry at Leinster as they rack up probably the least impressive win of the weekend.Lastly we talk selection, comparing the merits of Schmidt and Farrell's seemingly different approaches. There's only one World Cup Quarter Final mention in this one, and somehow we didn't manage an extended riff on Get Back at any point.Support the Molecast on www.ko-fi.com/dementedmole Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 24, 2021

Munster's half-backs kept Ireland in winning ways but took a slightly different route to achieving it: how do things stand for genuine legend Conor Murray and little white hope Joey Carbery after whomping Argentina?Have Ireland found their second playmaker in Tadhg Furlong or will the big guns figure out how to nullify our loops and pods in Twickenham, Stade de France and on tour in New Zealand?Farrell's selection has been a huge strength over autumn, but how is our depth chart looking beneath our main men?Apologies issued, nonsense talked and a brilliant autumn series rounded well and truly up.https://ko-fi.com/dementedmole Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 18, 2021

We continue to poke at the big plot hole in the middle of Ireland's autumn form: when did we get this good?More and more people are calling it Ireland's "best ever" performance, and yet we still nearly lost: so how good were our Kiwi opponents who seem to be indulging a Man Utd-esque level of mirror-staring.What can we expect from the future, and is it Ross Byrne? (He'd definitely take his points.)https://ko-fi.com/dementedmole Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 9, 2021

Everyone loves stupid sexy Ireland after their best attacking display in years again (only?) Japan. Where have Farrell and Catt been hiding all the offloads until now? And how far can it take us?With the All Blacks in town, what's your preferred mode of defeat? Will we be happy as long as Faz's Fabulous Swashbucklers throw some punches? Or does the team just need some non-Leinster lads?https://www.patreon.com/dementedmole/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sep 18, 2020

McFarlard is at the end of his beginning, and van Graan is at the beginning of his end.(Apologies for the poor quality of one of the microphones — thankfully it was the least important one) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feb 28, 2020

Ireland were out thought and out fought all over Twickenham. Where do we go from here? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feb 19, 2020

Was Ireland's successful game plan against Wales about "playing what's in front of you", or was it something more subtle altogether?We also look ahead to the trip to Twickenham: can England's stutters be put down to typically tough Six Nations away days or are there bigger problems for the team since the high watermark of their semi-final victory over NZ ahead of our Triple Crown chance? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feb 5, 2020

Scotland delivered the kind of performance they wish they had in Yokohama last September but Ireland still came away victorious. So, how much credit can Ireland take from their narrow, nervy win?England's unbridled brutishness never turned up without their three brutes in chief on the pitch, and France looked both reborn and prone to a long rattle in the in second half. Can anyone stop them now they've got motoring?Wales eased into gear and look a bad match up for Ireland. Can we stop them from - ooof - another Grand Slam tilt? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 29, 2020

"It arrives like the spring, and like the spring, it too lifts the hearts. First the snowdrops, then the daffodils, then St Brigid's Day, then Six Nations." *wipes away tear*Rejoice that January is over, the World Cup is behind us, and we're still bitching about not picking on form. We scrutinise Andy Farrell's (conservative) first selection as Irish coach, discussing the virtues of experience and "experimentation". We preview Le Crunch: Eddie Jones promises withering physicality for the French who, with their glittering youthful talent, promise a return to the days when they ruled the championship along with Les Rosbifs.Finally we talk briefly about Wales and Italy. Five of the six coaches are new but Gatland casts the longest shadow of all those departing. How will Wales cope? And should Italy just embrace La Brutta Vita? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 22, 2020

Cheaters never win, except when you don't take their trophies back off them. The Saracens saga rolls on. Relegation a certainty but European success a possibility. Everything else seems to be up for grabs.After that we ask the difficult question about the Irish coaching ticket: how did they get the gig again?Lastly we touch briefly on the plight of Munster and their youth in the wake of their European exit. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 19, 2019

Mid-season Stocktake! Which notable characters from the long running Pro 14 series "went mainstream" in the last round of games, and where does that leave the future Ireland team and its captaincy, Johann van Grann's coaching trajectory and Ulster in general. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 4, 2019

Will Connors is coming for your clothes, your boots, your motorcycle, and your number seven jersey: the man known as Porridge gets lower than Lil' Jon and smashes all in front of him as Leinster march on with another win with a young team on a tough away day.Later on we take a deep dive into a hypothetical world of a CVC Capital Partners-inspired British and Irish league, as suggested by Ospreys chairman Rob Davies' mention of it this week. If this is where we're headed, what might it look like? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 27, 2019

Munster's Latham... I mean Larkham revolution yields a sliding doors moment for JJ Hanrahan and despite a cracking performance leaves them in a tight spot. Ulster and Leinster are 2/2 with wildly varying qualities of performance. Is it Leinster's tournament to lose? And lastly international coaching tickets are moving and shaking. Is Ireland's *management* ticket out of step with the rest of world rugby? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 15, 2019

Leinster's production line is the focus — and how freely they might play — but the inescapable shadow of the Rugby World Cup is never far away: what does it mean for Ireland? In Munster, Ulster fielded a pack with no Ulstermen: all the players will end up coming from St Michael's and Blackrock if no one else is producing them.And how do you deal with cheats? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 6, 2019

Chapter I: The World Cup and the Winning ThereofChapter II: The World Cup and Dumping There-out-ofExcept, like Prince's Lovesexy (or Royal Trux's Twin Infinitives) there's no separate tracks, it just blazes all the way through. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Oct 8, 2019

A lot to get through, including: How did we lose to Japan? How did we actually get on against Russia when not dropping the ball? How do we go about beating Samoa?And then: These refs, eh? Here come England's White Orcs who keep passing the ball. Growing into tournaments. Fail to evolve, evolve to fail. And what will go down in the QFs? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sep 17, 2019

Belatedly we discuss Ireland's performance against Wales, and how a good old fashioned show of aggression dismissed some of our lingering 2019 anxieties. We also take a fairly freewheeling look at the rest of the Rugby World Cup which bloody well starts this week! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sep 5, 2019

We discuss somewhat surprising Irish Rugby World Cup selection made by Joe Schmidt for Japan 2019. (We should note that the top 10 games discussed were top 10 under Schmidt, not ever.) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Aug 28, 2019

No Spala for your guts! The Battle of Bayonne! Ireland's legacy in preparing for World Cups is akin to their legacy in actual World Cups: full of wince-inducing moments of crisis and lots of existential soul-searching. As such we discuss at length where we are after a disastrous drubbing in Twickenham. We also have a brief chat about England and the All Black's but even when we are talking about them, aren't we really just talking about Ireland? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

May 23, 2019

We go long on Leinster's imperious semi-final victory against Munster, doling out praise where it's due, and then focus on a disappointing end to Ulster's otherwise excellent season. They're on the up, but Munster look to have stood still. There's also lots of anecdotes about large rugbymen. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

May 15, 2019

Leinster hit the wall against a mighty Saracens team in Newcastle and lose their first Euro final. Did it all hinge on the big moments like Luke McGrath's wayward box kick and Liam William's ravenous hit-and-steal? In Munster there's more drama as their coaching ticket is again in search of stability after Felix Jones and Gerry Flannery turn down contracts. How do both teams prepare ahead of this weekend's huge league semi-final? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Apr 25, 2019

[Re-uploaded with proper audio] After semi-final weekend, we give the boys in blue the credit deserve for a consummate performance at the Aviva and ask whether Munster are improving — but not quickly enough — or if their 7th semi-final loss is a reality check for them. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Apr 18, 2019

Following a thought-provoking article by Gerry Thornley on the plight of the club game we look at the state of it after an exciting denouement to the regular season of the AIL. We also look at squad size, depth, matching players and game time, and look ahead to two tasty semi-final encounters. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Apr 4, 2019

Three out of the four Heineken Cup quarter finals provided exceptional excitement with two bonafide classics taking place in Paris and Dublin. We pick over the bones of them, and ask how Leinster's depth is getting tested, how the rugby gods will punish Tadhg Beirne, how Ulster, Edinburgh and Racing will feel after their respective defeats.YNWA Dan Leavy! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mar 19, 2019

It's a post-mortem for a Six Nations that leaves everyone but Wales disappointed. Take the dog for an extra long walk because there's loads to get off our collective chests. More analytical that a Buenos Aires dinner party, we try to get inside the heads of everyone from Gatty to Joe to Genge and attempt to decipher how focus, fitness and form come together in the magic stew of victory. Congrats to Wales and hurrah for the U20s Grand Slam heroes! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mar 13, 2019

We rank Ireland both out of 1 to 10 and with the binary unsatisfactory/satisfactory distinction as we pick apart an impressive victory against France and ask if Cardiff represents a "free hit"? Have we really learned that much about ourselves other than we *still* suck at being favourites? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mar 6, 2019

As usual, the game is gone or going somewhere weird. Crisis in Wales, crisis in world rugby, crisis at World Rugby. There's not enough people close enough to each other on the planet to make the game viable in the way it wants to be while maintaining some semblance of the game's traditions: discuss. OK, we will. Welsh sociology, roads, the Belle Epoque, FIRA, it's all in here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feb 28, 2019

Did injury force Ireland's hand in terms of selection, or did Joe just not channel his inner Gatty after a disappointing performance in Rome. Is clarity of purpose what Ireland are lacking? Also: oh shit here come unbeatable Wales. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feb 15, 2019

Questions raised and questions answered at Murrayfield; kick and clap at Twickenham as England launch bombs and land them all. What more do we know about Carbery and what more can we find out, and are England showing their World Cup plans already? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feb 6, 2019

Meeting the pitch of the ball, changing the pitch of the game, 1500 metre full backs, the paradox of Zebo's absence, being the best team in the world for six weeks, some Japanese big picture, and some face-smashing: these are just some of the things that we grasp onto in the aftermath of getting pumped at home by pumped-up English. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 31, 2019

We try to get inside the mind of Schmidt and Jones to pick their teams for them. Given they are now announced, it retrospectively seems like Joe is channelling his inner Gatland. And while the team largely picks itself, the bench very much does not. Also ou est les françaises? First the snowdrops, then St Bridget's Day, then the Six Nations! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 24, 2019

We focus on the little province that could, that keeps surprising us all and has ended up with a surprising contingent in the Irish squad: Ulster (badum tish.)Also we indulge in some Valdanology, investigating claims of Shit-on-a-Stick at Thomond Park, sexy sub outhalf talk for Leinster and the boring grind of Premierships DoFs. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 9, 2019

The festive interpros heralded the end of rugby as we know it with tedious blowhards and tinfoil-hat-wearing Twitter cranks calling for the abolition of the uncompetitive Pro 14, a situation which might finally allow the Welsh teams to thrive.... where exactly? THE GAME'S GONE.Good thing then that there's some rugby to look forward to. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 14, 2018

After a weekend which saw 5 of the 7 Premiership teams lose in Europe, we go in depth on the status of the league as it faces into a future that is likely to include ring-fencing and the a partial buy-out by a private equity firm. We also evaluate Munster's curious win against Castres, as well as looking back to see who France is blaming for their defeat to Fiji. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 21, 2018

We've attained rugby perfection and there's nothing left to do but meditate on it (OMMMMM) but we still luxuriate in it a little bit, or even a lot. Just how good was it? Very, very good. Then there's the question of the ABs trajectory, and lastly there's the squad for US Eagles game – and beyond. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 14, 2018

We are going long on the more-interesting-than-expected clash between Pumas who have reasons to be optimistic and the Irish who have plenty mull over. And of course with the All Blacks on the horizon, we look into their squeaky victory over the English and look forward to the title bout next Saturday night at Lansdowne Road. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 7, 2018

There's a lot of player welfare talk surrounding professional rugby these days but extraneous — pointless — internationals outside the autumn test match window, and ignoring borderline hits because they are unpopular decisions don't add up to looking after the players. We get into the bizarre Ireland B vs Italy B in mostly empty stadium, and ask where England are, and if they are going anywhere. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Oct 24, 2018

Bruce Craig wuz robbed: will threat of high court make high tackles hightail it? Or will the ABs still get their scalps and get away with it? Leinster lose despite being the Harlem Globetrotters (apparently), Nucifora releases Budget 2019, and who gets picked for Ireland? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Oct 18, 2018

The "Gobshites" are back with a discussion of Munster's non-victory victory in Windy Park, the return of the tighthead rock Marty Mooradze, OMG just how good were Leintster roysh, slagging off Freddie Burns, and predicting this weekend's Euro-thrashings. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Oct 12, 2018

A slightly delayed Molecast but our takes still haven't cooled down. Whitehouse or Shitehouse, provincial pecking order, the future of Sean O'Brien (and the Real Sean O'Brien), an exciting weekend of Euro-rugby ahead for the provinces... plus rogue predictions are back. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sep 27, 2018

The Molecast is back for the new season with more sounds of slurping tea and opening beers, as well as much discussion of fullbacks: PC Thug and burger-stealer Geordan Murphy, Simon "Slim" Zebo, and even Joey Carbery. Then we tried to solve everything to do with English rugby, which didn't go too well or get very far. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jun 20, 2018

We get into the ineffable logic of Joe's selection policy, Ireland's journey vs Ireland's destination, refereeing card games, NZ cynicism and go down a few blind alleys in anticipation of the end of an incredible season of rugby success.(BTW episode #12 didn't get published, so you didn't miss one. Stay tuned for the 30th anniversary reissue.) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jun 4, 2018

Do you like *long* podcasts? We have a lot to get through. Semi-finals, finals, retirements, squad announcements for Australia, a bloody transfer saga, and maybe most dramatically of all: the demise of the B&I Cup and Nucifora's plans for the club game. It's a bumper edition of the Molecast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

May 17, 2018

Sometimes it isn't all Wayne Barnes' fault, and hopefully one of us will be big enough to admit it. It was a dog of a game, but sometimes that just can't be helped all that much, and thankfully Leinster showed yet another way to win. We also discuss Jordi's future, coaching duos, Leo's selections and throw in a little bit of ref talk for good measure. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

May 10, 2018

The Moles get into provincial appointments and dismissals up North and out West respectively, before we delve into the Pro14's health ahead of its semi-finals. And of course, we have a long hard think about Leinster's showdown in Bilbao with Racing 92 and why they should finish the job and round off a stellar European season. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Apr 26, 2018

The Moles have lots to discuss after the contrasting European Champions Cup semi-final results for the Irish provinces including the serious men of Leinster; the silver linings for Munster and Van Gran's Grand Plan. Also, why would you take a job with Ulster right now? And what of Sean O'Brien? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Apr 19, 2018

The Moles are back with loads of chat about "butt hurt losers" in the Aviva Premiership, international club rugby. Then, closer to home, we talk about Magnificent Max Deegan and where Joey Carbery's future lies. Of course, we also throw in some ropey semi-final predictions too! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mar 28, 2018

A few weeks ago we had the opportunity to meet and chat with the legendary Serge Betsen courtesy of Heineken Rugby Club and talked about his career in the game. And of course, Serge is an absolute gent, quelle surprise! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mar 21, 2018

Is winning the Grand Slam the best thing ever? We ask this an other moody questions about where we are now – and where is everybody else going? Who might be next to break through? And who gets referred to as our "eminence grise"? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mar 16, 2018

We ramble about the French resurgence, the English malaise, a thoroughly Schmidtian Ireland, and whether we will the Grand Slam. Oh and a big apology to James Ryan – we should never have doubted you! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mar 7, 2018

We look back at the Wales game, look forward to the Scotland game, talk about tackling on the wing and in the second row, Ireland's problems out wide, England's lack of progress, compare national birth rates, and hype up the GRAND SLAM (shhhhhh!) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feb 21, 2018

The Molecast is back with a lengthy exploration of what to expect when Ireland meets Wales this Saturday in the Six Nations. Then we go clubbing and get into the weeds with Ulster mini-rugby turnout levels, a Tadhg Beirne love-in, and more wild predictions. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feb 9, 2018

We look back at Ireland's victory in France and look forward to how we'll go against Italy. In the second half we look back at the other games, and forward to the other rounds of games.... and make more dreadful predictions. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feb 2, 2018

The first Demented Mole podcast looking ahead to the 2018 Six Nations, making fun of Gerbrandt Grobler, and using sound effects to spice up the chat. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.