By Far the Greatest Team: Boxing Day Bonanza – Ranking Football’s Finest Teams (Seasonal Special)

In this festive seasonal special of By Far the Greatest Team, hosts Graham and Jamie are joined by regular guests Declan Clark, Phil Craig, and Jamie “South Coast” Wilson to explore the history of five iconic football teams.

From San Marino’s astonishing rise from the bottom of the FIFA rankings to Arsenal’s dominance in the 1930s, the panel delves into what makes these teams truly great. With a mix of humor, nostalgia, and sharp analysis, the hosts rank the greatest football teams of all time, sharing insights into their unforgettable legacies.

This episode also covers a range of memorable football stories, from the chaotic management of Heart of Midlothian during their wild 2005-06 season to Oxford United’s stunning Milk Cup victory in 1986. The panel debates the impact of injuries on teams, discusses the importance of management, and highlights the unpredictable twists and turns that make football so captivating. As always, the camaraderie and humor between the hosts make this a fun, engaging listen for any football fan.

Key Takeaways from this Episode:

• San Marino’s rise from the depths: Once the lowest-ranked team in the world, San Marino’s unexpected recent successes have caught the attention of fans and analysts alike, showcasing the unpredictable nature of football.
• Arsenal’s dominance in the 1930s: The legendary Arsenal team of the 1930s that inspire the Denham Studio's film, The Arsenal Stadium Mystery.
• Tranmere Rovers' near-misses: Despite several close calls, Tranmere Rovers' consistent efforts to secure promotion remain a fascinating story of determination and near glory in the Football League.
• Heart of Midlothian’s chaotic 2005/06 season: The Hearts team of 2005/06, under tumultuous management, produced an unforgettable, roller-coaster campaign. The club’s surprising early-season success and subsequent downfall became a remarkable chapter in Scottish football history.
• Oxford United’s Milk Cup win (1986): Oxford United’s unexpected triumph in the Milk Cup remains one of the most cherished moments in their history, a reminder that football’s magic often lies in the underdog victories.

Podcast Transcript Available: For those who prefer reading, a full transcript of this episode is available on our website.

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In this episode of By Far The Greatest Team, hosts Graham and Jamie are joined by regular guest Phil Craig to delve into the remarkable story of Il Grande Torino, the dominant force in Italian football during the 1940s. The discussion begins with Ferruccio Novo, the visionary president who transformed Torino into a footballing powerhouse through innovative leadership and strategic planning. Despite the challenges posed by World War II, the team flourished, achieving an unprecedented run of championships that showcased their unique style of play and remarkable talent.

The episode also highlights the incredible resilience of Ernst Erbstein, whose life story exemplifies the era's trials and triumphs. However, the narrative takes a poignant turn with the Superga air disaster, the tragic event that claimed the lives of the entire Torino squad and left an indelible mark on Italian football. Graham, Jamie, and Phil explore the profound emotional impact of this tragedy, not only on the football community but on the nation as a whole.

Through their insightful conversation, the hosts celebrate Torino's legacy, emphasizing how their achievements continue to inspire while serving as a solemn reminder of the fragility of life and the enduring power of sports to unite and heal. This episode is a tribute to the greatness and humanity of a team whose story transcends the game itself.

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Or visit our website at www.thegreatestteam.co

In this latest episode of By Far The Greatest Team, hosts Graham and Jamie welcome London football expert Stuart Burgess for an in-depth look at Millwall legendary 1988-89 season. As The Lions stepped into the top tier for the first time, they not only took on English football’s elite but nearly upset the whole establishment.

Join the crew as they dive into the magic of that historic year, examining how key signings like Tony Cascarino and youth team product Teddy Sheringham forged a lethal partnership that terrorised First Division defences.

Stuart shares insights into Millwall’s playing style, emphasising the importance of strong wingers, a rock-solid midfield, and Jimmy Carter’s unforgettable impact on the pitch. Millwall’s home games at The Den were notoriously tough for opponents, and their fierce identity gave them an edge in matches.

Listeners will enjoy anecdotes about Terry Hurlock’s infamous reputation as a “hardman,” though surprisingly low on red cards, and the fascinating evolution of striking partnerships from the Millwall era to today. The discussion also explores the unpredictable journey of clubs like Millwall, the passionate stories of their fans, and the undeniable cultural impact football has on communities.

Whether you’re a Millwall die-hard, a fan of classic football history, or just love a good underdog story, this episode dives deep into what made Millwall’s 1988-89 season unforgettable.

If you enjoy these podcasts, please don't forget to subscribe and give us a rating and also tell everyone about them!

Or visit our website at www.thegreatestteam.co