Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast Kicking Match: An Irish League Podcast

Joe McCallion and Ross Welsh from Around The Grounds NI joins the podcast to review a tasty collection of news and games.

Should Cliftonville look at accepting the rumored North American investment? Or is it not worth the risk to the fabric of the how the club is run? Elsewhere, Larne's sharp decline in form continues, are they in threat of losing their top six status come the split?

Northern Ireland football podcaster Stewart Cherry joins the pod to ponder what the Irish League can take from the League of Ireland's record breaking weekend? Is it right to compare? Or are their decade of growth on and off the pitch a potential blue print for the Irish league?

Elsewhere, are Glentoran only a few players away from title contention next season? And who can stop this Glenavon hot streak?

Spotlight on the ever changeable race for top 6 in the NIFL Premiership this week. With games running out, will we actually see the established regulars fall below that dotted line, or will they rally before the table reads '33 played' across the board.Keelan Leeper makes their pod debut to help decipher how the fixtures will impact the all important run in between now and the end of March.We'll also review all the games and look ahead to this upcoming gameweek.

A memorable clash between Glentoran and Linfield headline an Irish Cup weekend short on shocks.

Podcaster Mark McGuiggan joins the pod to assess why Linfield are beating everybody else in the NIFL Premiership except their most heated rivals. Does this ruin the lustre of their season? Or just a bump along the way?

We review all the games from the week as well as wrap up all the last minute transfer deals.

Podcaster Matthew Brown from Shout At The Oval helps to break down what's been behind Declan Devine's success in East Belfast this season. What changes has he made on and off the pitch? And what is the trajectory of the side moving forward?

We also spend time going through all the latest transfer moves, recap the latest match ups and look ahead to the games in the Irish Cup last 16. 

Dave Watt is the guest on the podcast this week as Kieran Offord takes centre stage as the league’s most sought after striking prospect. His time on loan at Crusaders might have come to an end but will he be away from the league for long with plenty of rumoured suitors waiting in the wings.

Offord helped his old team in red and black win out in his final game, heaping more misery onto Coleraine? Is Dean Shiels starting to feel the heat from fans on the North Coast?

Elsewhere, Portadown gift Linfield a three goal lead at home to sink their chances against the current league leaders, Carrick and Ballymena play out a bore draw while Glenavon win a thriller against the Swifts in Co. Tyrone.

Sports podcaster Ally McCalmont joins the pod as Linfield avoid another banana skin in the league. Top of the table after Christmas with only four defeats, is it becoming Linfield’s title to lose?

Elsewhere, Larne keep up their push up the table at the expense of Cliftonville who are left furious following a controversial chalking off of a goal before the break.

Portadown return to winning ways as Dungannon smash the Crues.

We cover the latest transfers and look ahead to another weekend of Irish League top flight action.

Irish League writer and reporter Barry Flynn returns to the podcast for his annual look back at the Irish Cup 5th Round.

He also reflects on the early moves in the January transfer window and previews the first selection of games in the NIFL Premiership.

In the final podcast of the year Mark McGuiggan joins the podcast top look back at a barnstorming Boxing Day set of games. 

Newsletter sports writer Johnny McNabb is in the festive pod hotseat this week.

He shares his view of what every Irish League side wants and hopes for in the January transfer window.

He also helps recap the pre-Christmas string of games and previews the biggest gameweek of the year, Boxing Day!

Jonny Dunlop joins the podcast this week as there’s big wins for the teams at the top. Currently Portadown are one of those sides flirting with the top 6 rather the bottom half. Jonny attempts to share the secrets behind the mid-Ulster men’s ascension this season.

Plus, the player widely rated as the league’s best – Joel Cooper – is heavily linked to a move a way to Coleraine. How close is a potential deal? And what kind of statement does it make for Coleraine as they attempt to flex their financial muscles in their new full time era.

No games as Storm Darragh results in the entire NIFL Premiership weekend schedule, but Joe McCallion and Ross Welsh of Around The Grounds NI are on hand to share their best Irish League XI’s of the season so far.

Going behind the starts and the art of the eye test to pick of the best performing batch of players.

Plus, fallout out from NIFL’s handling of the Storm Darragh impacted games and a look ahead to this weekend’s match ups *fingers crossed*.

PS. Kicking Match: LIVE is happening on 21st March 2025 in Belfast! Head to social media and be one of the first to secure your ticket.

Podcaster Stewart Cherry looks ahead to busy December for all teams in the NIFL Premiership.

Whose season would be make or break, depending on how these final games of 2024 play out?

We review the schedule of every team and ask what’s required for each side in order to keep in touch with their goals?

We also look back at the past weekend games where Linfield and Carrick where the only victors.

Writer and journalist Barry Flynn is our guest this week to dissect what will be a pivotal decision in Larne's history. As their greatest ever manager Tiernan Lynch progresses into the League of Ireland, the Inver Reds appoint the recent nomad Nathan Rooney to lead them into a new era. We reflect on the impact the Lynch brothers had in East Antrim and size up the task for the incoming Rooney.

Elsewhere there are derby wins for Glentoran and Portadown, plus as look to the Championship where Bangor look to be ascending towards a return to the top flight with relative ease.

Michael Scott, Editor of Newry Reporter & Banbridge Chronicle joins the pod to react to the news of Glenavon making a big switch in their dugout.

After failing to win in their past seven matches, Stephen McDonnell was releveled of his managerial duties after a short spell of just over a year in charge.

A mere day later Glenavon named former Derry City assistant manager Paddy McLaughlin as the new man to take over.

Elsewhere, Linfield take pole position in the title race as they finally win out against Larne and there are big wins for Portadown and Carrick Rangers.

Sports reporter from Belfast Live, Steven Crawford joins the podcast as Linfield and Larne successfully add to their points totals. How will they fare as they prepare to face off against each other this weekend. 

Joe Gormley keeps up his hot streak and his three goals aid in giving Cliftonville the three points. 

Elsewhere, Shay McCartan steals a point of the Ports with a long range strike but a an altercation involving Paul Healthy and Lewis MacKinnon sees the discussion around retrospective bans come to the fore once again.

Commentator and reporter Mark Strange joins the podcast to help try and get our collective minds around this topsy turvy Irish League season.

Linfield avoid getting totally rumbled by Carrick away, but David Healy has a clear message to Blues fans, back the team!

Larne get back to winning ways, but refs are put under the spotlight by Glens boss Declan Devine as two players see red.

Elsewhere, Ports, Bannsiders and Reds continues their winning spells. Plus Loughgall continue to show signs of recovery as they earning full points for a second weekend in a row.

Larne's humbling defeat at the hands of Shamrock Rovers in the UEFA Conference League highlighted the recently untested gulf in class between the Irish league and the League of Ireland.

Despite significant progress for the Irish League over the years, the result at Windsor Park was a clear indicator that there is still a long way to go until there is parity across the divisions on the island.

Northern Ireland football podcaster Stewart Cherry and Editor of the Banbridge Chronicle and Newry Reporter, Michael Scott are this week's guests to share their view on the status of the league and what steps should - or shouldn't - be taken in order to continue developing football within Northern Ireland.

Football writer Lewis Bennett returns to the pod to look back at a week of Irish League action, including a deeper look at the NIFL Championship and beyond.

We preview Larne's all Ireland clash with Shamrock Rovers in the Conference League and preview this weekend's forthcoming games.

Ross Welsh and Joe McCallion return to the pod to celebrate a century of episodes!

The Around the Grounds NI boys ponder if Ballymena's imperious form puts them in the box seat for a top seat spot.

With a win in his back pocket Stephen Baxter off to a great start as the new Carrick Rangers boss, but is he the right fit?

Linfield survive a late surge from the Crues, but is their squad already looking thin on experience from the bench?

All that plus a look ahead to this weekend's Irish League fixtures.

Ally McCalmont is the guest for a week full of headlines. Glentoran's second half surge earns them the bragging rights in the Irish League's most watched fixture. Glenavon were joyous victors over their rivals as they give the Ports a taste of their own late goal medicine.

We look back at Stuart King's time in charge of Carrick Rangers after he steps away from the post. Plus, Dungannon and Ballymena continue to fly high, how long can it continue?

Mark McGuiggan joins the pod was we talk about another high profile manager who did all but sign on the dotted line with a club in Scotland. Why are these managers turning down the opportunity and are they just biding their time for the right gig?

Elsewhere, Ballymena and Dugannon keep up their recent hot streaks, Carrick lose again to make it 8 defeats on the bounce and we look ahead to the first meeting of Linfield and Glentoran this season.

David Watt is this week's guest to reflect on a turbulent couple of results in the NIFL Premiership.

Shock results, upkeep of form and a multitude of team all scrambling for position.

It just felt like the right time to plant our feet and attempt to judge which teams are looking like the real deal, and whom have not been up to scratch. We like the call such an exercise the Quarter Season Catch Up.

Former Sports Editor of the Ballymena Times Stephen Alexander is this weeks guest to reflect on the first big battle between this season's title favourites. Lusty's unlikely drive the catalyst for Larne's winning goal. Are Blue's set to spiral or can they bounce back in a big way against Cliftonville?

Elsewhere, an inspired Ben Kennedy keep Ballymena winning and Ports beat out Dungannon to go unbeaten in four games.

Recaps and previews a plenty on this week's episode.

Veteran Irish League writer and reporter Barry Flynn shares his views on all the latest happenings throughout the league.

What's gotten into Larne as they fail to win for a second weekend in a row. Glens are outwitted by former manager Rodney McAree. And Niall Currie also gets one over on a employer as Portadown snatch and grab three points as Taylor's Avenue.

We take a look at how the Championship is shaping up and preview all the big games coming up.

Joel Neill joins the pod to reflect on the greatest week in the history of Larne FC. An Irish League team is playing the league/group phase of a modern European Club Competition for the first time. Incredible scenes at Inver Park after a tense encounter with Lincoln Red Imps ends in victory thanks to a hattrick from Andy Ryan.

We recap the entire European journey - so far - and look ahead to what's in store between not and Christmas in the competition.

There was also great Irish League action to respond to as Portadown frustrate Linfield with a last minute draw and a wonder goal from Jordan Jenkins keeps Glentoran's season ticking along.

Journalist Mark McIntosh shares his view on a whirlwind weekend for David Healy and Linfield fans, after the much publicised approach by Scottish side Raith Rovers to snag the Blues manager. But the five time Irish League winning boss recommitted his future to the Belfast club. How did we get here? And what does it mean long term for Healy's future at Windsor Park?

Plus, Larne only a win away from history, can they thwart Lincoln Red Imps at Inver Park and progress to the Conference League proper?

Add in a round up of the latest games plus some transfer news and that's a one spicy meatball of a podcast.

Damian Mullan, Sports Editor of the Coleraine Chronicle, features on the pod to discuss an intriguing week of Irish League developments.

Larne cruise into Conference League play off round, but can they get the job done against opposition from Gibraltar?

With a Lee Bonis shaped hole in their team will the Inver Reds secure a replacement within the league?

Plus, morale boosting wins for Coleraine and Glentoran, while Reds and Blues lead the way with 2 wins from 2.

Matthew Brown from the Shout at the Oval podcast to look back at the opening weekend of the NIFL Premiership season.

We discuss Larne's chances of following up on their winning exploits in Europe and finish the task at Inver. Reflect on the success of Lee Bonis' Irish League career and review his chances of breaking into the Northern Ireland squad after his latest move. Plus we react to suggestions of the Irish League's top flight moving to only 10 teams.

Your ultimate guide for the upcoming season of top flight of Irish League football. Every club's prospects for the campaign ahead put under the microscope.

Ross Welsh and Joe McCallion from Around the Grounds NI join the pod to share their predictions, including where they think every team will finish.

TIMESTAMPS

Irish League in Europe Reaction - 00:02:20

Linfield - 00:17:02

Portadown - 00:29:35

Glentoran - 00:38:36

Dungannon Swifts - 00:45:10

Coleraine - 00:48:50

Cliftonville - 00:55:05

Carrick Rangers - 01:02:18

Ballymena United - 01:07:02

Larne - 01:13:37

Crusaders - 01:20:25

Glenavon - 01:28:28

Loughgall - 01:34:23

Weekend's Games Preview - 01:43:23

Matthew Brown from the Shout At The Oval podcast is our guest to go through all the latest news in the world of Irish League.

From the long awaited European draws, concerns over a majority of top flight teams failing to break even, price for games hitting £15 and all the recent Irish league transfers.

The men's Irish League season is in the books, therefore it's that time of year to look back at a campaign full of thrills, chills and drama. With a special look at Cliftonville's Irish Cup heroics, the European play off and the action in the Promotion/Relegation play off.

All in the company of guests Mark McGuiggan and Dave Watt.

Preparing to play at a sold out Windsor Park, Cliftonville and Linfield go under the microscope ahead of a huge Irish Cup final. Can the Blues end their season on a high note? Or can the Reds turnover a multi-decade hoodoo in the competition.

Plus, we're looking at all flavours of Play Offs, from Europe to Promotion/Relegation

Ross Welsh and Joe McCallion from Around The Grounds NI are this week's guests.

The Inver Reds have done it! (almost) Bar the greatest one game goal difference swing in football history, the Gibson Cup will stay on the Antrim coast.

How have the done it? What will Kenny Bruce and Co do next? And what should Linfield learn from this tight title chase?

Plus, the Ports return to the Premiership at the first time of asking, Declan Devine is confirmed as Glentoran's full time boss and we recap the NI Football Awards. All in the company of Belfast Telegraph Sports reporter Stuart McKinley.

A 30 seconds of Irish League football which no fan will ever forget, Title Tuesday (working title) will go down in footballing folklore when goals deep into injury time across two games flipped the power balance in the championship chase.

Former Ballymena Times sports editor Stephen Alexander is on hand the relieve all that action, look ahead to the NI Football Awards & give insight into Ballymena United's season long decline.

This season shows no sign of slowing down as it speeds towards the finish line. Football writer and blogger Lewis Bennett joins the pod to share an in depth look at everything that's on the line across all three Irish League divisions. Plus a preview of Tuesday night's (GW 36) games.

What a start to The Split as both of the top two fluffed their lines in winnable games. Was it a mere blip for both, or could this be a sign for either team of a late season chink in the amour.

Elsewhere, Ballymena take a huge step away from the automatic drop zone (relatively) gaining three points on Newry by sneaking the three points late on against Loughgall. Can Newry pull it back with a sudden end of season surge.

Plus the Championship promotion race continues to be bonkers, so you know we're talking about that.

This week joined on the pod by Newry Reporter and Banbridge Chronicle Editor Michael Scott.

Ross Welsh and Joe McCallion from Around the Grounds NI jump back onto the pod this week for an extensive team by team preview of the upcoming split. How have the fixtures fell? Who has something still to play for? And what are the big games to keep an eye on.

Plus, we look back at the gripping Irish Cup Semi-Finals.

Sports reporter from the News Letter, Johnny McNabb joins the pod ahead of an Irish Cup Semi-Final Easter Weekend special.

The four best sides in the country face off for a place in the Irish Cup final. A truly season defining weekend. We preview the games and assess all teams path to victory.

Elsewhere, we recap the past weekends games, stick the latest goings on at the top of the championship under the magnifying glass and ask whom of the bottom two are the most likely to sneak 11th.

Glentoran are once again on the look out for a new manager, their forth permanent boss in the space of just over a year. Who is the right person to take over and what kind of job do they have on their hands?

Will it require revolution or just evolution?

Did Feeney get a fair shake at the job and what led to his eventual parting of ways.

Matthew Brown from the Shout at the Oval podcast is our guest to help answer all these questions and more!

Sports Journalist with the Belfast Telegraph, Stuart McKinley, joins the pod to recap NIFL's showcase final where the Blues were triumphant over an unsteady Portadown side on Mother's Day.

Can they use this success to propel themselves toward the Gibson Cup?

Elsewhere, a collection of Glentoran supporters clubs have made their opinion clear, they want change in the East Belfast dug out. Are they criticisms harsh? And what can Feeney do - if anything - to win over the Oval faithful?

Ahead of Linfield and Portadown facing off in the League Cup Final, Peter is joined by Podcaster & Blueman Mark McGuiggan and Portadown media man Jonny Dunlop to preview the big clash. Could the second tier Ports upset an injury ravaged Linfield? Or will the blues show their class and lift their second League Cup trophy on the bounce.

Also on the pod, the panel recap the latest Irish Cup Quarter Final results and share their thoughts on Irish League fan culture following Linfield being hit by a stadium ban for support conduct.

After starting off the last week with so much potential, Cliftonville will look back at the past couple of days thinking 'what could have been?'.

Outclassed by Linfield at home and then toppled by Dungannon away, things could not have gone worse for the Reds as they attempt to keep their season from completely going off the rails.

Damian Mullan, Sports Editor of the Coleraine Chronicle joins the pod to share their thoughts on the week that was of Irish League action.

Matthew Brown from Shout at the Oval joins the podcast to review a week where Coleraine make Linfield look all at sea with a surprising 3-0 victory, Glentoran smash sorry Newry - scoring 8 goals - & Carrick, Larne and Crusaders all win out on less than ideal grass surfaces.

Last season's Champions are back on top. Undefeated in 19, they've crawled back Linfield's point cushion - in part - due to the blues dropping 5pts in two game weeks.

Cliftonville continue to breath down both teams necks after they continued their own streak without death by thumping Coleraine.

Elsewhere it was stalemate in the battle of the basement and Glentoran throw away a two goal first half lead for the second time in a week.

Peter is joined by sports reporter and former sports editor of the Ballymena Times, Stephen Alexander.

The Irish League might be steam rolling towards the business end of the season, but our compadres in the League of Ireland are preparing to kick off their brand new season for 2024.

To keep us all up to date with the latest comings and goings in the league we contacted broadcaster and host of League of Ireland podcast Between The Stripes help answer all our big questions - including if the recently proposed 'All Island League' investment plan turned any heads?

Massive news in the Irish League as one of the longest serving managers is to step down. What legacy will Stephen Baxter leave on Crusaders and the league as a whole? Who might take over in Seaview? And what might the future hold for the red and black team in North Belfast. Reporter and football writer Barry Flynn joins the pod to discuss all that plus recap the Irish Cup 6th Round.

Dungannon make a huge comeback at Windsor Park to score the biggest shock of the season and further blow the title race open. How will Linfield react as their rivals for the Gibson Cup kept up their end of the deal with victories on Friday night.

Coleraine finally won a game for the first time since the start of November, we also ask what the latest is on their mooted takeover. Plus, we preview the last 16 in the Irish Cup.

Joining the podcast to review it all is Belfast Live sports reporter Steven Crawford?

The three at the top come up trumps again as they all win out in a weekend impacted by weather cancellations. Elsewhere, Carrick heap more misery onto Coleraine as they claim first win away at the Ballycastle Road for over 30 years.

Ally McCalmont jumps around to review all that, plus looks back at the entertaining League Cup Semi finals.

Who ordered the battle for a top six place/European play off spot? Because it's here and it's toasty hot. The Irish League continues to get more interesting by the week. Add in a couple more transfers and a sprinkling of some further rumoured ones, and that all adds up to a rather delectable pod offering to indulge in. No better person to join the pod this week to skim their eyes and ears over it all than podcaster Mark McGuiggan.