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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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.

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This week on By Far The Greatest Team, hosts Graham Dunn and Jamie Rooney turn back the clock to celebrate one of the most groundbreaking moments in football history: Cameroon’s awe-inspiring run to the quarterfinals of the 1990 FIFA World Cup. In a spirited debate, Graham and Jamie examine what made Cameroon’s journey so remarkable, from their bold tactical choices to the unmistakable influence of iconic super-sub Roger Milla, who captured the world’s imagination with his infectious spirit and legendary goals.

The conversation dives deep into the strategy and style that defined Cameroon’s play—a fearless, vibrant approach that mesmerized audiences and shook the football establishment. Graham and Jamie explore the historical and cultural significance of Cameroon’s achievements, especially their thrilling quarterfinal face-off against England, which left fans worldwide in awe. The hosts also discuss how Cameroon’s 1990 World Cup success set the stage for the rise of African football on the global stage, and they reflect on the overall quality of the 1990 tournament itself.

As always, the episode wraps up with a look forward to future discussions on more legendary teams and moments that changed the beautiful game. Don’t miss this fascinating journey through one of football’s most celebrated underdog stories!

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In this week’s episode of By Far The Greatest Team, Graham and Jamie journey back to the early ‘90s to celebrate the unsung giants of women’s football: the iconic Doncaster Belles. With their usual charm, the hosts relive the Belles’ heyday, when this band of gritty, fearless players took the women’s game by storm, winning hearts, titles, and respect all over England.

Listeners are in for a treat as Graham and Jamie dig into the club’s humble formation, driven by pure community passion, and reflect on the powerful camaraderie that made the Belles such a force.

From thrilling FA Cup wins to the Belles’ intense rivalry with Arsenal, every match was packed with spirit and determination, especially as many players juggled full-time jobs and grueling fixtures. They shine a spotlight on top scorer Karen Walker, whose relentless drive made her a Belles legend, and reveal the tough realities faced by a team that helped shape the future of women’s football without ever gaining the full support they deserved.

As Graham and Jamie delve into the legacy and impact of the Belles, they celebrate not just a team but a movement that empowered women in sports at a time when resources and recognition were thin. It’s a tribute to the team’s resilience, unbreakable bond, and groundbreaking role in women's football history, inspiring generations to come.

But, where do the Doncaster Belles get ranked in the scale of greatness. Listen in to find out.

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In the latest episode of By Far The Greatest Team, hosts Graham Dunn and Jamie Rooney are joined by the master of scandals, Shane Guiliano, for a deep dive into one of the most controversial World Cups in history: Argentina 1978.

Amidst the backdrop of a tense and oppressive political climate, the trio unearths Argentina’s tumultuous journey to hosting the tournament, led by the innovative César Luis Menotti. They reflect on the glaring absence of a young Diego Maradona, an omission that still sparks debate. Was this decision a mistake, or a stroke of genius?

Shane brings his scandal expertise to the fore as the discussion turns to the military regime’s propaganda use of the tournament, the suspicious circumstances surrounding Argentina’s infamous 6-0 win over Peru, and the legacy of the tournament’s controversial final against the Netherlands. Was the victory pure footballing brilliance, or was there more at play behind the scenes?

From unique squad numbering systems to gamesmanship in the final, Graham, Jamie, and Shane leave no stone unturned as they explore how political pressures shaped this event, how it impacted future World Cups (especially in 1982), and how the black armbands on the goalposts during the final stand as a stark symbol of the turbulent era.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone intrigued by the complex relationship between sports and politics and the legacy of a World Cup victory steeped in both glory and controversy.

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In this episode of By Far The Greatest Team, hosts Graham Dunn and Jamie Rooney are joined by Ipswich Town fan Mark Horrocks for an in-depth discussion on Bobby Robson's golden era at Ipswich Town. Revered for his exceptional managerial skills and character, Robson led Ipswich to remarkable success in the 1970s and 1980s.

The trio explores key milestones, including the Texaco Cup victory, the club’s FA Cup win in 1978, and the near treble during the 1980-81 season. Robson’s emphasis on youth development, his ability to overcome early challenges with the club’s support, and his introduction of Dutch players that revolutionized Ipswich’s style of play are key talking points.

Listeners will hear about legendary players like Kevin Beattie, John Wark, and Mick Mills, who played pivotal roles in Ipswich's success. Paul Cooper's impressive penalty-saving record, especially during the late '70s, also gets special mention.

From the UEFA Cup triumph to Robson’s lasting legacy in English and international football, this episode celebrates Ipswich Town’s dominant years and the man who transformed them into a force to be reckoned with.

Don't miss out on personal stories that reveal Bobby Robson's integrity, approachability, and impact both on and off the field. Tune in for a nostalgic journey into one of English football’s most cherished periods and find out where Bobby Robson's Ipswich Town are ranked in the scale of greatness.

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In this deep-dive episode of By Far The Greatest Team, hosts Graham Dunn and Jamie Rooney take a closer look at the iconic Real Madrid team of the 1950s. While their five consecutive European Cups are celebrated as one of the greatest achievements in football, the hosts ask the big question: were they really that great?

Graham and Jamie retrace the club’s rise from relative obscurity to becoming the world's first true football superpower, largely thanks to the visionary leadership of Santiago Bernabéu. They analyze the crucial role of legendary players like Alfredo Di Stefano and Ferenc Puskás in shaping the club’s dominance. But was it all just skill and brilliance? The hosts explore the evolution of tournament formats, dissect the level of competition, and revisit the legendary matches that helped secure Madrid’s place in football history.

As the conversation unfolds, they weigh the statistical achievements of the team against the broader context of football at the time. In reflecting on the club's enduring legacy, they ask: did Real Madrid truly earn their status as one of football's all-time greats, or did circumstances play a bigger role than we think?

Tune in to this engaging and thought-provoking episode for a fresh perspective on the most iconic era of European football!

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Or visit our website at www.thegreatestteam.co