Episodes

  • What Makes a Big Club?

    What Makes a Big Club?
    Oct 24 2025
    Gabby, Sam, and Stuart dive into football’s age-old debate — what truly defines a “big club”? Is it history, trophies, fanbase, finances, or global pull? The trio break down England’s “Big Six."

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
    Show More Show Less
    44 mins
  • Rangers and Celtic in the English Leagues?

    Rangers and Celtic in the English Leagues?
    Oct 17 2025

    Sam and Stuart are joined by Scottish football journalist Stewart Weir to dive into one of the biggest “what ifs” in football.


    Would Rangers and Celtic dominate or struggle in the English system? Could they handle the Championship grind or even Premier League pressure? And what would it mean for Scottish football as a whole?


    Expect strong opinions, laughs, and a few bold predictions along the way.

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
    Show More Show Less
    45 mins
  • The Shelf Life of a Manager

    The Shelf Life of a Manager
    Oct 10 2025
    In this episode of The First Half Pod, Stuart, Sam, and Gabby tackle the age-old question: Do football managers have a shelf life? From legendary bosses who redefined eras to short-term fixes who fizzled out, we explore whether modern football chews through managers quicker than ever before. We debate the impact of player power, media scrutiny, boardroom patience, and the rise of the "new voice" factor. Expect big names, bold takes, and plenty of heated discussion.

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
    Show More Show Less
    44 mins
  • Home or Away? The Future of Football Abroad

    Home or Away? The Future of Football Abroad
    Oct 3 2025

    In this week’s episode of The First Half Pod, Gabby, Sam, and Stuart tackle one of football’s most divisive debates – the possibility of domestic games being played abroad. From the Premier League’s flirtation with the idea to La Liga’s bold attempts, the trio weigh up whether it’s a natural step in the globalisation of the game or a dangerous move away from fans at home.


    The conversation then shifts to the controversial prospect of a European Super League. Would it actually work in practice, or is it destined to collapse under fan pressure and football politics?


    To help break it all down, the team are joined by special guest Mark Donaldson, ESPN broadcaster and football analyst, who brings his unique perspective on whether football’s future really lies outside its traditional borders.

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
    Show More Show Less
    45 mins
  • Champions League or Premier League

    Champions League or Premier League
    Sep 26 2025

    Champions League or Premier League… which would YOU rather see your club win?

    Stuart, Sam & Gabby debate it with former Arsenal midfielder Ian Selley & broadcaster/Arsenal fan Harry Symeou

    Spoiler: there were some BIG disagreements

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
    Show More Show Less
    44 mins
  • Stadiums

    Stadiums
    Sep 19 2025

    The First Half Pod is back for Season 2! We kick things off by stepping through the turnstiles and asking the big question: what makes a great football stadium? From the electric atmospheres of traditional grounds to the modern comforts of all-seaters, we explore the charm, culture, and controversies behind the places fans call home. Expect stories, debates, and a few hot takes on why some stadiums are unforgettable while others leave you cold.

    Whether you’re a die-hard terrace fan or a lover of state-of-the-art arenas, this episode will have you picturing your perfect matchday.

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
    Show More Show Less
    44 mins
  • Cup competitions are they any good?

    Cup competitions are they any good?
    Sep 8 2023
    Our first episode is all about cup competitions.. But are there too many of them? Still, we all love a giant killing! Former Luton and Torquay manager Paul Buckle joins Sam and Stuart to discuss cups and to talk about that giant killing against Norwich when he was manager of Luton in 2013. Back then, a certain England international was part of the Norwich side who lost to Luton. Listen to find out more!

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
    Show More Show Less
    44 mins
  • Welcome to the First Half Pod

    Welcome to the First Half Pod
    Aug 15 2023
    New and exciting podcast coming soon from Sam Stevens and Stuart Armour, here is a flavour of what to come.

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
    Show More Show Less
    2 mins