After the final round of the 2020 Six Nations was cancelled due to Coronavirus, Brian Moore is joined in studio by former England sevens captain Rob Vickerman to discuss the effects the pandemic is likely to have on the resumption of the tournament as well as the domestic and international calendar.The Gallagher Premiership look set to announce an initial four week suspension following the spread of the virus and the Telegraph's Chief Rugby Correspondent Gavin Mairs joins the show to discuss the plans in place to try and finish the domestic season and also the likely effects the pandemic is likely to have on the Premiership and the tiers beneath which are already struggling to cope financially.Crossing codes into Rugby League, and Super League defied the global health warnings by fulfilling a full round of fixtures over the weekend, it remains to be seen whether the league will continue to play through the pandemic and we get the views of rugby league hall of famer Garry Schofield about whether they should be playing at all and if the sport is capable of surviving a postponement.Away from the Coronavirus England prop Joe Marler learnt his fate for his 'grab' on Wales captain Alun Wyn Jones last weekend. He's been given a ten week ban for his actions, whilst centre Manu Tuilagi has been given a four week ban four his high tackle on George North. England's behaviour this year has been met with criticism from opposing nations and whilst both Brian and Rob find it hard to disagree with the criticism they wonder if the players and head coach Eddie Jones really care too much what others think about them.Plus we'll round up the Six Nations from where it's been left and answer all your questions as usual. Listen to Crossfire:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.playpodca.st/crossfire" target="_blank">www.playpodca.st/crossfire</a>

After the final round of the 2020 Six Nations was cancelled due to Coronavirus, Brian Moore is joined in studio by former England sevens captain Rob Vickerman to discuss the effects the pandemic is likely to have on the resumption of the tournament as well as the domestic and international calendar.The Gallagher Premiership look set to announce an initial four week suspension following the spread of the virus and the Telegraph's Chief Rugby Correspondent Gavin Mairs joins the show to discuss the plans in place to try and finish the domestic season and also the likely effects the pandemic is likely to have on the Premiership and the tiers beneath which are already struggling to cope financially.Crossing codes into Rugby League, and Super League defied the global health warnings by fulfilling a full round of fixtures over the weekend, it remains to be seen whether the league will continue to play through the pandemic and we get the views of rugby league hall of famer Garry Schofield about whether they should be playing at all and if the sport is capable of surviving a postponement.Away from the Coronavirus England prop Joe Marler learnt his fate for his 'grab' on Wales captain Alun Wyn Jones last weekend. He's been given a ten week ban for his actions, whilst centre Manu Tuilagi has been given a four week ban four his high tackle on George North. England's behaviour this year has been met with criticism from opposing nations and whilst both Brian and Rob find it hard to disagree with the criticism they wonder if the players and head coach Eddie Jones really care too much what others think about them.Plus we'll round up the Six Nations from where it's been left and answer all your questions as usual.Listen to Crossfire:&nbsp;www.playpodca.st/crossfire

Brian Moore's Rugby Podcast

Brian Moore: Playing behind closed doors is better than nothing

There's just one round left in the 2020 Six Nations and as fears over Coronavirus spread across the continent we will be denied the traditional "Super Saturday" after both England and Ireland have their games postponed.On the pitch there was plenty to talk about in a thrilling encounter between England and Wales at Twickenham. Former England back row and World Cup winner Maggie Alphonsi is alongside Brian this week to pick the bones out of yet another win for Eddie Jones.Despite a thrilling game on the pitch, it will forever be remembered for a bizarre incident between England prop Joe Marler and Wales captain Alun Wyn Jones. Brian says Marler's behaviour is idiotic in the current climate and that he should accept whatever ban is thrown at him in the wake of the incident.As for Wales it's now three defeats on the spin for them for the first time since 2007. Former centre Mark Taylor joins the show and says there's no need t panic just yet after a valiant effort at Twickenham.Scotland turned in a fantastic performance against tournament favourites France at Murrayfield. Their win blows open the race for title (what's left of it) and we speak with former Scotland scrum half Rory Lawson about whether Gregor Townsend can make it three wins from three in the final game of the tournament.Elsewhere we get Maggie's thoughts on another crushing victory for England's women and ask what more can be done to help the game grow and we get to you questions too. Listen to Crossfire:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.playpodca.st/crossfire" target="_blank">www.playpodca.st/crossfire</a>

There's just one round left in the 2020 Six Nations and as fears over Coronavirus spread across the continent we will be denied the traditional "Super Saturday" after both England and Ireland have their games postponed.On the pitch there was plenty to talk about in a thrilling encounter between England and Wales at Twickenham. Former England back row and World Cup winner Maggie Alphonsi is alongside Brian this week to pick the bones out of yet another win for Eddie Jones.Despite a thrilling game on the pitch, it will forever be remembered for a bizarre incident between England prop Joe Marler and Wales captain Alun Wyn Jones. Brian says Marler's behaviour is idiotic in the current climate and that he should accept whatever ban is thrown at him in the wake of the incident.As for Wales it's now three defeats on the spin for them for the first time since 2007. Former centre Mark Taylor joins the show and says there's no need t panic just yet after a valiant effort at Twickenham.Scotland turned in a fantastic performance against tournament favourites France at Murrayfield. Their win blows open the race for title (what's left of it) and we speak with former Scotland scrum half Rory Lawson about whether Gregor Townsend can make it three wins from three in the final game of the tournament.Elsewhere we get Maggie's thoughts on another crushing victory for England's women and ask what more can be done to help the game grow and we get to you questions too.Listen to Crossfire:&nbsp;www.playpodca.st/crossfire

Brian Moore: Idiotic Marler only has himself to blame for potential ban

After a week off , the Six Nations is back for round four and there are three teams still in with a chance of lifting the trophy come two weeks time.Alongside Brian this week to look ahead to the weekends action, is former England hooker George Chuter.After navigating their way past Ireland, England's attention now turns to a home match against old rivals Wales who are hoping to avoid three successive defeats for the first time since 2007. James Hook knows what it's like to win and lose against England and he says it's too early to cast judgement on Wayne Pivac after his Wales squad was hit with even more injuries.There's only two games on this weekend after the Irish government ruled their match with Italy should not go ahead due to concerns over Coronavirus. The Irish Times Liam Toland explains what effect the postponement will have on the IRFU financially and moving forward with a re arranged fixture.Scotland's fixture with France has been given the green light and it's an opportunity for Gregor Townsend to win some fans over after an indifferent tournament. Ahead of the game there have been some green shoots of recovery in the relationship between Townsend and exiled fly half Finn Russell, and former Scotland international David Denton says it's best for everyone that they bury the hatchet.Off the pitch the big story surrounding the Six Nations is a potential deal to take the competition off free to air tv. Both Brian and George agree that the powers that be need to think long and hard about the damage that could be done by putting the tournament behind a paywall.And as ever we answer your questions including where Chris Ashton is likely to end up and how Premiership sides should manager the salary cap. Listen to Crossfire:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.playpodca.st/crossfire" target="_blank">www.playpodca.st/crossfire</a>

After a week off , the Six Nations is back for round four and there are three teams still in with a chance of lifting the trophy come two weeks time.Alongside Brian this week to look ahead to the weekends action, is former England hooker George Chuter.After navigating their way past Ireland, England's attention now turns to a home match against old rivals Wales who are hoping to avoid three successive defeats for the first time since 2007. James Hook knows what it's like to win and lose against England and he says it's too early to cast judgement on Wayne Pivac after his Wales squad was hit with even more injuries.There's only two games on this weekend after the Irish government ruled their match with Italy should not go ahead due to concerns over Coronavirus. The Irish Times Liam Toland explains what effect the postponement will have on the IRFU financially and moving forward with a re arranged fixture.Scotland's fixture with France has been given the green light and it's an opportunity for Gregor Townsend to win some fans over after an indifferent tournament. Ahead of the game there have been some green shoots of recovery in the relationship between Townsend and exiled fly half Finn Russell, and former Scotland international David Denton says it's best for everyone that they bury the hatchet.Off the pitch the big story surrounding the Six Nations is a potential deal to take the competition off free to air tv. Both Brian and George agree that the powers that be need to think long and hard about the damage that could be done by putting the tournament behind a paywall.And as ever we answer your questions including where Chris Ashton is likely to end up and how Premiership sides should manager the salary cap. Listen to Crossfire:&nbsp;www.playpodca.st/crossfire

Brian Moore: Six Nations must ignore paywall for the good of the game

We're past the halfway point of this years Six Nations and France remain the only side with a 100% record following their win over Wales in Cardiff.Joining Brian in studio this week is former England centre Tom May. The pair dissect England's win over Ireland and whether it was a case of English brilliance or Irish sloppiness. Key to England's win was the performance of Manu Tuilagi who maintained his 100% win record over the Irish. Tom has first hand experience of playing against Tuilagi and he believes the centre has become much more than just a ball carrier.Ireland's defeat means France are the only side left with a 100% record after they saw off Wales in Cardiff. Both Brian and Tom think the French could have the bones of a future World Cup winning squad. As for Wales it's now back to back defeats for new boss Wayne Pivac, next up for him is a trip to Twickenham and former Ospreys coach Sean Holley joins the show to look ahead to that one.Plus we answer your questions surrounding the future of Italy after yet another defeat for the Azzuri, refereeing around the breakdown and the relationships between players and referee's.Donate to Tom's marathon <a href="https://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/TomMay150" target="_blank">https://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/TomMay150</a>Listen to Crossfire:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.playpodca.st/crossfire" target="_blank">www.playpodca.st/crossfire</a>

We're past the halfway point of this years Six Nations and France remain the only side with a 100% record following their win over Wales in Cardiff.Joining Brian in studio this week is former England centre Tom May. The pair dissect England's win over Ireland and whether it was a case of English brilliance or Irish sloppiness. Key to England's win was the performance of Manu Tuilagi who maintained his 100% win record over the Irish. Tom has first hand experience of playing against Tuilagi and he believes the centre has become much more than just a ball carrier.Ireland's defeat means France are the only side left with a 100% record after they saw off Wales in Cardiff. Both Brian and Tom think the French could have the bones of a future World Cup winning squad. As for Wales it's now back to back defeats for new boss Wayne Pivac, next up for him is a trip to Twickenham and former Ospreys coach Sean Holley joins the show to look ahead to that one.Plus we answer your questions surrounding the future of Italy after yet another defeat for the Azzuri, refereeing around the breakdown and the relationships between players and referee's.Donate to Tom's marathon https://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/TomMay150Listen to Crossfire:&nbsp;www.playpodca.st/crossfire

Tom May: Manu Tuilagi has evolved into the complete player

After a week off we're back for round three of the 2020 Six Nations.Alongside Brian this week for the first time is the former France flanker Serge Betsen who casts his eye over the resurgent French ahead of their trip to Cardiff this weekend.The standout tie of the round comes from Twickenham on Sunday as unbeaten Ireland take on England in Eddie Jones first home game of the tournament. Former Ireland and Lions captain Paul O'Connell knows a thing or two about winning in Twickenham but he's expecting his former side to fall just short of England after their momentum building win over Scotland in round two.As for Wales, they face the prospect of France in front of their home crowd on Saturday evening. Serge gives us the lo down on the impact Shaun Edwards has had on the French side since deferring from Wales after the World Cup, meanwhile former Wales scrum half Rupert Moon is on hand to explain how Wayne Pivac will manage his way around an injury crisis.Away from the Six Nations there's been some big domestic news. The RFU have announced they will be slashing the funding to the Greene King Championship by a staggering 50%. We'll get the thoughts of the Telegraph's chief rugby correspondent Gavin Mairs who explains what impact the news is likely to have on the future of the competition.Plus we'll be answering your questions as always and we'll ask Serge about his favourite Six Nations memories including a memorable game against England in 2002.Listen to Crossfire:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.playpodca.st/crossfire" target="_blank">www.playpodca.st/crossfire</a>

After a week off we're back for round three of the 2020 Six Nations.Alongside Brian this week for the first time is the former France flanker Serge Betsen who casts his eye over the resurgent French ahead of their trip to Cardiff this weekend.The standout tie of the round comes from Twickenham on Sunday as unbeaten Ireland take on England in Eddie Jones first home game of the tournament. Former Ireland and Lions captain Paul O'Connell knows a thing or two about winning in Twickenham but he's expecting his former side to fall just short of England after their momentum building win over Scotland in round two.As for Wales, they face the prospect of France in front of their home crowd on Saturday evening. Serge gives us the lo down on the impact Shaun Edwards has had on the French side since deferring from Wales after the World Cup, meanwhile former Wales scrum half Rupert Moon is on hand to explain how Wayne Pivac will manage his way around an injury crisis.Away from the Six Nations there's been some big domestic news. The RFU have announced they will be slashing the funding to the Greene King Championship by a staggering 50%. We'll get the thoughts of the Telegraph's chief rugby correspondent Gavin Mairs who explains what impact the news is likely to have on the future of the competition.Plus we'll be answering your questions as always and we'll ask Serge about his favourite Six Nations memories including a memorable game against England in 2002.Listen to Crossfire:&nbsp;www.playpodca.st/crossfire

Paul O'Connell: Impressive Ireland to fall short at Twickenham

Storm Ciara may have affected England's dour victory over Scotland but it has not prevented Brian Moore from returning for this weeks Full Contact!After making it back safely from Edinburgh, Brian is joined in studio by former England Sevens captain Rob Vickerman to reflect on Saturdays match in Murrayfield as well as the other headlines from around the Six Nations.The pair discuss what (if anything) can Eddie Jones learn from Saturdays win, and former Scotland winger Tim Visser joins the show to offer his take on what needs to change in order for Gregor Townsend to keep his job, one solution offered up by Brian and Rob is to bring back exiled fly half Finn Russell and make him captain of the side!Elsewhere Andy Farrell won the battle of the new coaches as Ireland and Wales squared off in Dublin. Up next for Farrell is a return to Twickenham where he spent time as England assistant coach, where he will come up against a familiar face in his son Owen Farrell. Former Ireland second row Mike McCarthy was in Dublin on Saturday and explains what is different under the new coaching regime.Plus we get Robs take on what has turned France's fortunes around, the prospect of South Africa joining the Six Nations and what the most effective game plan is for wet weather rugby.

Storm Ciara may have affected England's dour victory over Scotland but it has not prevented Brian Moore from returning for this weeks Full Contact!After making it back safely from Edinburgh, Brian is joined in studio by former England Sevens captain Rob Vickerman to reflect on Saturdays match in Murrayfield as well as the other headlines from around the Six Nations.The pair discuss what (if anything) can Eddie Jones learn from Saturdays win, and former Scotland winger Tim Visser joins the show to offer his take on what needs to change in order for Gregor Townsend to keep his job, one solution offered up by Brian and Rob is to bring back exiled fly half Finn Russell and make him captain of the side!Elsewhere Andy Farrell won the battle of the new coaches as Ireland and Wales squared off in Dublin. Up next for Farrell is a return to Twickenham where he spent time as England assistant coach, where he will come up against a familiar face in his son Owen Farrell. Former Ireland second row Mike McCarthy was in Dublin on Saturday and explains what is different under the new coaching regime.Plus we get Robs take on what has turned France's fortunes around, the prospect of South Africa joining the Six Nations and what the most effective game plan is for wet weather rugby.

Brian Moore: Finn Russell should be the Scotland captain!

The first week of the 2020 Six Nations is in the history books and it was not one to remember for England and their head coach Eddie Jones.This week, Brian Moore is joined in studio by former Scotland fly half Craig Chalmers to reflect on the opening weekend, including that loss for England in Paris.Former England centre Mike Tindall joins the show and expresses his concerns for England's ageing squad after they were outplayed by a young and daring French side. There's also concerns over England's options at scrum half and number eight after Tom Curry failed to have the desired impact on the game after being moved there from openside flanker.Next up for England is a trip to Murrayfield to take on Scotland who were one major Stuart Hogg error away from picking up a result away to Ireland. Finn Russell will once again miss out on the game as his spat with head coach Gregor Townsend continues, but Craig is confident that the Scots can upset the odds against their old rivals without Russell in the team.It was a case of new coach, same result for Ireland who had 34 year old captain Johnny Sexton to thank for all 19 of their points against Scotland. Despite a pragmatic performance from the Irish, former Munster and Leinster back row Liam Toland is satisfied from what he saw in Andy Farrell's first game in charge. He joins the show to look ahead to Ireland's clash with Wales.And finally Wales picked up a routine bonus point win at home to Italy, the former Ospreys head coach Sean Holley gives us his verdict on the game and what we can expect to see from Wayne Pivac's side in Dublin on Saturday.Listen to The Briefing on Apple Podcasts:&nbsp;<a href="https://apple.co/2ReKdji" target="_blank">https://apple.co/2ReKdji</a>,&nbsp;Spotify&nbsp;<a href="https://spoti.fi/2P2geIE" target="_blank">https://spoti.fi/2P2geIE</a>&nbsp;or ask your smart speaker for “The Telegraph Briefing”

The first week of the 2020 Six Nations is in the history books and it was not one to remember for England and their head coach Eddie Jones.This week, Brian Moore is joined in studio by former Scotland fly half Craig Chalmers to reflect on the opening weekend, including that loss for England in Paris.Former England centre Mike Tindall joins the show and expresses his concerns for England's ageing squad after they were outplayed by a young and daring French side. There's also concerns over England's options at scrum half and number eight after Tom Curry failed to have the desired impact on the game after being moved there from openside flanker.Next up for England is a trip to Murrayfield to take on Scotland who were one major Stuart Hogg error away from picking up a result away to Ireland. Finn Russell will once again miss out on the game as his spat with head coach Gregor Townsend continues, but Craig is confident that the Scots can upset the odds against their old rivals without Russell in the team.It was a case of new coach, same result for Ireland who had 34 year old captain Johnny Sexton to thank for all 19 of their points against Scotland. Despite a pragmatic performance from the Irish, former Munster and Leinster back row Liam Toland is satisfied from what he saw in Andy Farrell's first game in charge. He joins the show to look ahead to Ireland's clash with Wales.And finally Wales picked up a routine bonus point win at home to Italy, the former Ospreys head coach Sean Holley gives us his verdict on the game and what we can expect to see from Wayne Pivac's side in Dublin on Saturday.Listen to The Briefing on Apple Podcasts:&nbsp;https://apple.co/2ReKdji,&nbsp;Spotify&nbsp;https://spoti.fi/2P2geIE&nbsp;or ask your smart speaker for “The Telegraph Briefing”

Brian Moore: If you want to be brutal, pick the right players

Brian Moore is back for another series of Full Contact ahead of the 2020 Six Nations Championship.This week former England centre Tom May is alongside Brian to look ahead to the opening round of fixtures in this years tournament. The pair discuss the effect the Saracens salary cap scandal is likely to have on Eddie Jones squad and also who should line up in the back row in the absence of Billy Vunipola who has been ruled out for the entire competition.Scotland face a scandal of their own after star fly half Finn Russell was sent home for breaching team protocol. Former Scotland scrum half Rory Lawson joins the show to weigh in on the debate surrounding Russell and explains what the public perception is of head coach Gregor Townsend who retained his role despite a difficult 2019.Ireland have picked a team with a nice blend of youth and experience for their curtain raiser against Scotland. It's the first Six Nations in charge for new head coach Andy Farrell and we get the opinion of former Ireland back row Alan Quinlan about how the Irish are shaping up under a new regime.Wales are also starting this campaign under new management. Wayne Pivac has replaced Warren Gatland in charge and has promised an exciting brand of rugby. The defending champions are third favourites with the bookies heading into the competition and former Wales and Lions number 8 Scott Quinnell explains why the Welsh should not be taken lightly.We're joined also by England Women's captain Sarah Hunter as her side begin the defence of their Grand Slam away to France, and we answer your questions surrounding the likes of Kyle Sinckler, Israel Folau and the new substitution rules.

Brian Moore is back for another series of Full Contact ahead of the 2020 Six Nations Championship.This week former England centre Tom May is alongside Brian to look ahead to the opening round of fixtures in this years tournament. The pair discuss the effect the Saracens salary cap scandal is likely to have on Eddie Jones squad and also who should line up in the back row in the absence of Billy Vunipola who has been ruled out for the entire competition.Scotland face a scandal of their own after star fly half Finn Russell was sent home for breaching team protocol. Former Scotland scrum half Rory Lawson joins the show to weigh in on the debate surrounding Russell and explains what the public perception is of head coach Gregor Townsend who retained his role despite a difficult 2019.Ireland have picked a team with a nice blend of youth and experience for their curtain raiser against Scotland. It's the first Six Nations in charge for new head coach Andy Farrell and we get the opinion of former Ireland back row Alan Quinlan about how the Irish are shaping up under a new regime.Wales are also starting this campaign under new management. Wayne Pivac has replaced Warren Gatland in charge and has promised an exciting brand of rugby. The defending champions are third favourites with the bookies heading into the competition and former Wales and Lions number 8 Scott Quinnell explains why the Welsh should not be taken lightly.We're joined also by England Women's captain Sarah Hunter as her side begin the defence of their Grand Slam away to France, and we answer your questions surrounding the likes of Kyle Sinckler, Israel Folau and the new substitution rules.

Brian Moore: Saracens scandal won't cause a rift in the England camp

After 7 weeks of action in Japan the Rugby World Cup 2019 is now in the history books and it was not meant to be for England who fell short at the final hurdle against a powerful and combative South Africa side. Alongside Brian in studio is 203 World Cup winner and former England scrum half Kyran Bracken. Eddie Jones says he cannot put his finger on what went wrong for England but luckily Brian and Kyran have a few theories of their own which they believe contributed to England’s defeat. As for South Africa they became the first side to lose a game in the World Cup and go on to win the tournament, former Springbok skipper and World Cup winner Bob Skinstad joins the show to describe why the victory means so much more than just a sporting triumph back in a country which is still divided on so many levels. Referee Jerome Garces was the brunt of a lot English fans criticism on Saturday morning but former international referee Jonathan Kaplan explains why he actually had quite a good final, and that the standard of refereeing overall in the tournament increased as it went on. And we debate whether or not Eddie Jones is the right man to lead England into the next World Cup in four years time, he refused to answer questions regarding his future but has agreed a contract with the RFU up until 2021. Get 30 days' access to The Telegraph completely free at <a href="https://telegraph.co.uk/audio" target="_blank">https://telegraph.co.uk/audio</a>&nbsp; Listen to the Audio Football Club: <a href="https://playpodca.st/afc" target="_blank">https://playpodca.st/afc</a>

After 7 weeks of action in Japan the Rugby World Cup 2019 is now in the history books and it was not meant to be for England who fell short at the final hurdle against a powerful and combative South Africa side.Alongside Brian in studio is 203 World Cup winner and former England scrum half Kyran Bracken. Eddie Jones says he cannot put his finger on what went wrong for England but luckily Brian and Kyran have a few theories of their own which they believe contributed to England’s defeat.As for South Africa they became the first side to lose a game in the World Cup and go on to win the tournament, former Springbok skipper and World Cup winner Bob Skinstad joins the show to describe why the victory means so much more than just a sporting triumph back in a country which is still divided on so many levels.Referee Jerome Garces was the brunt of a lot English fans criticism on Saturday morning but former international referee Jonathan Kaplan explains why he actually had quite a good final, and that the standard of refereeing overall in the tournament increased as it went on.And we debate whether or not Eddie Jones is the right man to lead England into the next World Cup in four years time, he refused to answer questions regarding his future but has agreed a contract with the RFU up until 2021.Get 30 days' access to The Telegraph completely free at https://telegraph.co.uk/audio&nbsp;Listen to the Audio Football Club: https://playpodca.st/afc

Kyran Bracken: England got carried away with NZ win

After six weeks of upsets, hammerings and cancellations we are down to just two teams in the 2019 Rugby World Cup final, England and South Africa. Alongside Brian Moore this week is the former England sevens captain and broadcaster Rob Vickerman to reflect on the two semi finals and to look ahead to Saturday's showdown. England produced the finest display of the Eddie Jones era to dismiss pre tournament favourites New Zealand on Saturday morning and both Brian and Rob think it’s hard to look past them for the William Webb Ellis Trophy. As for New Zealand, it's not the three in a row that departing head coach Steve Hansen had his sights set on, former All Black Scott Hamilton joins the show to speak about how the Kiwi’s have reacted to the defeat and who’s likely to replace Hansen after the tournament. Wales campaign ended on Sunday morning with a narrow defeat to a very physical South African side. Former Osprey’s head coach Sean Holley tells us the right side won on the day but Wales can hold their heads up high, in particular Warren Gatland and Alun Wyn Jones, who Sean thinks has plenty of years left in the tank. And looking ahead to Saturday’s final we speak with former Springbok Thinus Delport about where the game could be won and lost and if the South African’s are going to rely on their brute power to win the trophy. Listen to the Audio Football Club:&nbsp;<a href="https://playpodca.st/afc" target="_blank">https://playpodca.st/afc</a>

After six weeks of upsets, hammerings and cancellations we are down to just two teams in the 2019 Rugby World Cup final, England and South Africa.Alongside Brian Moore this week is the former England sevens captain and broadcaster Rob Vickerman to reflect on the two semi finals and to look ahead to Saturday's showdown.England produced the finest display of the Eddie Jones era to dismiss pre tournament favourites New Zealand on Saturday morning and both Brian and Rob think it’s hard to look past them for the William Webb Ellis Trophy.As for New Zealand, it's not the three in a row that departing head coach Steve Hansen had his sights set on, former All Black Scott Hamilton joins the show to speak about how the Kiwi’s have reacted to the defeat and who’s likely to replace Hansen after the tournament.Wales campaign ended on Sunday morning with a narrow defeat to a very physical South African side. Former Osprey’s head coach Sean Holley tells us the right side won on the day but Wales can hold their heads up high, in particular Warren Gatland and Alun Wyn Jones, who Sean thinks has plenty of years left in the tank.And looking ahead to Saturday’s final we speak with former Springbok Thinus Delport about where the game could be won and lost and if the South African’s are going to rely on their brute power to win the trophy.Listen to the Audio Football Club:&nbsp;https://playpodca.st/afc

Brian Moore: NZ win was Eddie Jones finest hour, now go win the World Cup

We're down to just four in the 2019 Rugby World Cup after this weekend's quarter finals in Japan. And joining Brian in studio to react to the all four games is former England hooker George Chuter.England were first to impress with a comfortable win over Australia on Saturday morning. Next up it was the All Black's who handed out a ruthless thrashing to Ireland later that very same day.The pre tournament favourites look like they could be peaking at just the right time but was it a case of Kiwi brilliance or did Ireland just simply fail to turn up? The Irish now go into a transitional phase as head coach Joe Schmidt departs his role after six years in charge. Former Ireland hooker Shane Byrne offers us his thoughts on whether the last year in charge for Schmidt has tainted his otherwise excellent legacy as head coach.Wales became the third team into the semi's on Sunday morning. They defeated France by a solitary point and not without any controversy. Referee Jaco Peyper made headlines on and off the pitch following his decision to rightfully red card Sebastien Vahaamahina in the first half.Lastly hosts Japan were knocked out by an efficient display from South Africa. The Springboks now face Wales in the semi final and for a chance to potentially meet New Zealand in the final and right the wrong of their defeat in the opening weekend of the competition.And the Gallagher Premiership is back, we discuss how likely the World Cup is to affect the destination of the trophy come the end of the season.

We're down to just four in the 2019 Rugby World Cup after this weekend's quarter finals in Japan. And joining Brian in studio to react to the all four games is former England hooker George Chuter.England were first to impress with a comfortable win over Australia on Saturday morning. Next up it was the All Black's who handed out a ruthless thrashing to Ireland later that very same day.The pre tournament favourites look like they could be peaking at just the right time but was it a case of Kiwi brilliance or did Ireland just simply fail to turn up? The Irish now go into a transitional phase as head coach Joe Schmidt departs his role after six years in charge. Former Ireland hooker Shane Byrne offers us his thoughts on whether the last year in charge for Schmidt has tainted his otherwise excellent legacy as head coach.Wales became the third team into the semi's on Sunday morning. They defeated France by a solitary point and not without any controversy. Referee Jaco Peyper made headlines on and off the pitch following his decision to rightfully red card Sebastien Vahaamahina in the first half.Lastly hosts Japan were knocked out by an efficient display from South Africa. The Springboks now face Wales in the semi final and for a chance to potentially meet New Zealand in the final and right the wrong of their defeat in the opening weekend of the competition.And the Gallagher Premiership is back, we discuss how likely the World Cup is to affect the destination of the trophy come the end of the season.

Brian Moore: England look very good, but must be flawless to defeat the All Blacks

After a surreal week for the sport of Rugby Union, Brian Moore is joined in studio by World Cup winner Maggie Alphonsi to reflect on the highs and lows both on and off the pitch.The pair begin by paying tribute to everyone involved with helping Japan's final Pool A game with Scotland go ahead amidst the chaos of Typhoon Hagibis. As for the match itself, it was another scintillating performance from the hosts who topped their pool with a 100% record and now go on the play old rivals South Africa in the quarter finals.The defeat means Scotland are on their way back home early having failed to make it out of the Pool stage and pressure is mounting on head coach Gregor Townsend. Former Scotland international Craig Chalmers says it's not time to panic just yet, and he's backing Townsend to turn things around in the new year during the Six Nations.Ireland qualified at Scotlands expense, despite spending more than half the game with 14 men they eased past Samoa and now have the prospect of facing tournament favourites New Zealand in the quarter finals. Mike McCarthy played against the All Blacks during his time as a player for Ireland and he joins the show to make a case for his former side.Wales finished their Pool phase in unconvincing fashion with a win over Uruguay. They now take on France in the quarter finals and former Ospreys coach Sean Holley believes they have got themselves a favourable draw as they target 240 minuets to win the tournament.As for England, they had the benefit of a week off thanks to Typhoon Hagibis, next up for them is a clash with Australia which both Brian and Maggie believe will cause fireworks due to the short tempered nature of both coaches, Eddie Jones and Micheal Cheika.And as the three year funding deal for the Tyrell's Premier 5's begins its final year Maggie explains how the Women's game is only going to continue to get bigger and bigger.

After a surreal week for the sport of Rugby Union, Brian Moore is joined in studio by World Cup winner Maggie Alphonsi to reflect on the highs and lows both on and off the pitch.The pair begin by paying tribute to everyone involved with helping Japan's final Pool A game with Scotland go ahead amidst the chaos of Typhoon Hagibis. As for the match itself, it was another scintillating performance from the hosts who topped their pool with a 100% record and now go on the play old rivals South Africa in the quarter finals.The defeat means Scotland are on their way back home early having failed to make it out of the Pool stage and pressure is mounting on head coach Gregor Townsend. Former Scotland international Craig Chalmers says it's not time to panic just yet, and he's backing Townsend to turn things around in the new year during the Six Nations.Ireland qualified at Scotlands expense, despite spending more than half the game with 14 men they eased past Samoa and now have the prospect of facing tournament favourites New Zealand in the quarter finals. Mike McCarthy played against the All Blacks during his time as a player for Ireland and he joins the show to make a case for his former side.Wales finished their Pool phase in unconvincing fashion with a win over Uruguay. They now take on France in the quarter finals and former Ospreys coach Sean Holley believes they have got themselves a favourable draw as they target 240 minuets to win the tournament.As for England, they had the benefit of a week off thanks to Typhoon Hagibis, next up for them is a clash with Australia which both Brian and Maggie believe will cause fireworks due to the short tempered nature of both coaches, Eddie Jones and Micheal Cheika.And as the three year funding deal for the Tyrell's Premier 5's begins its final year Maggie explains how the Women's game is only going to continue to get bigger and bigger.

Brian Moore: It's time to include Japan among Rugby's elite

With the Pool stages of the 2019 Rugby World Cup drawing to a close, and the quarter finals starting to take shape, Brian Moore is joined in studio by former Springbok captain and World Cup winner Bob Skinstad to analyse which teams are likely to top their pool and ensure a safer route to the latter stages of the tournament.England came through their first tier one test with relative ease but we're aided massively by a red card to Argentinas' Tomas Lavanini. The decision has divided rugby fans across the World but both Brian and Bob agree with the punishment and think it will lead to more sensible tackles moving forward.Despite the win, Brian is still not convinced we've seen the best of Eddie Jones side just yet. Former World Cup winner Mike Tindall joins the show and gives us his take on how England should line up for their final pool match with France.As for France, they laboured to a narrow win over Tonga and have guaranteed their place in the quarter finals. Ahead of their pool decider with England there have been rumours of a rift between captain Guilhem Guirado and the senior coaching staff. One man who knows what it's like to coach France at a World Cup is Philippe Saint-André, he joins the show and explains why the French are more of a 4x4 than a Formula One car at present.Three teams could still make it out of Pool A. Hosts Japan are the only side heading into their final game with a 100% record, they take on Scotland on Sunday morning and former full back Hugo Southwell looks ahead to that game as well as the number of permutations surrounding the pool.And we get Bob's thoughts on South Africa's campaign so far, with issues off the pitch making more headlines the performances on the pitch.

With the Pool stages of the 2019 Rugby World Cup drawing to a close, and the quarter finals starting to take shape, Brian Moore is joined in studio by former Springbok captain and World Cup winner Bob Skinstad to analyse which teams are likely to top their pool and ensure a safer route to the latter stages of the tournament.England came through their first tier one test with relative ease but we're aided massively by a red card to Argentinas' Tomas Lavanini. The decision has divided rugby fans across the World but both Brian and Bob agree with the punishment and think it will lead to more sensible tackles moving forward.Despite the win, Brian is still not convinced we've seen the best of Eddie Jones side just yet. Former World Cup winner Mike Tindall joins the show and gives us his take on how England should line up for their final pool match with France.As for France, they laboured to a narrow win over Tonga and have guaranteed their place in the quarter finals. Ahead of their pool decider with England there have been rumours of a rift between captain Guilhem Guirado and the senior coaching staff. One man who knows what it's like to coach France at a World Cup is Philippe Saint-André, he joins the show and explains why the French are more of a 4x4 than a Formula One car at present.Three teams could still make it out of Pool A. Hosts Japan are the only side heading into their final game with a 100% record, they take on Scotland on Sunday morning and former full back Hugo Southwell looks ahead to that game as well as the number of permutations surrounding the pool.And we get Bob's thoughts on South Africa's campaign so far, with issues off the pitch making more headlines the performances on the pitch.

Brian Moore: If you think rugby's gone soft, go watch MMA!

Week two of the Rugby World Cup is done and dusted and it was hosts Japan who dominated both the front and back pages for their win over Ireland. Fiji’s Olympic Gold Medal winning coach Ben Ryan is back in the studio alongside Brian to reflect on a big win for the host nation and what it means for the development of the game in Asia. Oliver Trenchard was covering the game in Tokyo and he joins the show to discuss how the Japanese public have fallen in love with their rugby team after the win on Saturday morning. Wales saw off a second half fightback from Australia to win what was arguably the best game of the competition so far. A jubilant former Wales and Lions Number Eight Scott Quinell joins the show to reflect on a big win for Warren Gatland’s side. One man who was not happy with Wales victory was the Austrailia head coach Micheal Cheika, he accused the referees of being ‘spooked’ by rugby’s hierarchy. He’s not the first person to criticize the level of officiating at this year's tournament, World Rugby themselves says that there have been a number of mistakes made already. Former International referee Jonathan Kaplan is on hand to offer his insight into what’s gone right and wrong in the tournament so far and how it can be refereed better. We also look ahead to England’s first match with Tier One opposition, they take on Argentina on Saturday morning.&nbsp; Plus Ben tells us all about Rugby X, an exciting new format of the game making its debut in London in October&nbsp; For more information and tickets for Rugby X head to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.rugbyx.com/" target="_blank">https://www.rugbyx.com</a>

Week two of the Rugby World Cup is done and dusted and it was hosts Japan who dominated both the front and back pages for their win over Ireland.Fiji’s Olympic Gold Medal winning coach Ben Ryan is back in the studio alongside Brian to reflect on a big win for the host nation and what it means for the development of the game in Asia.Oliver Trenchard was covering the game in Tokyo and he joins the show to discuss how the Japanese public have fallen in love with their rugby team after the win on Saturday morning.Wales saw off a second half fightback from Australia to win what was arguably the best game of the competition so far. A jubilant former Wales and Lions Number Eight Scott Quinell joins the show to reflect on a big win for Warren Gatland’s side.One man who was not happy with Wales victory was the Austrailia head coach Micheal Cheika, he accused the referees of being ‘spooked’ by rugby’s hierarchy. He’s not the first person to criticize the level of officiating at this year's tournament, World Rugby themselves says that there have been a number of mistakes made already. Former International referee Jonathan Kaplan is on hand to offer his insight into what’s gone right and wrong in the tournament so far and how it can be refereed better.We also look ahead to England’s first match with Tier One opposition, they take on Argentina on Saturday morning.&nbsp;Plus Ben tells us all about Rugby X, an exciting new format of the game making its debut in London in October&nbsp;For more information and tickets for Rugby X head to&nbsp;https://www.rugbyx.com

Brian Moore: Referees care more about making friends than making right decisions

The 2019 Rugby World Cup is officially underway in Japan and what a weekend it was.Fresh off Wales's bonus point win over Georgia, Brian Moore is joined in studio by former Wales and Lions full back Lee Byrne to discuss the major talking points from round one.England needed 'Fergie time' to ensure their bonus point against Tonga, and friend of the show and World Cup finalist George Chuter is on hand to reflect on their uninspiring performance and to look ahead to their next pool match against the USA.Ireland showed glimpses of their former self by thrashing Six Nations rivals Scotland in a rain-soaked Yokohama. Irish Times journalist Liam Toland makes a welcome return to the show to discuss whether the game was a display of Irish brilliance or Scottish incompetence.The standout tie of the opening weekend came on Saturday morning as tournament favourites New Zealand edged out second favourites South Africa. A relieved former All Black, Zinzan Brook, joins the show and says he expects both sides to get better despite impressing in game one.And we look back on Wales 2011 World Cup campaign with Lee and get his take on the infamous red card shown to former captain Sam Warburton which many argue cost them a place in the World Cup Final.

The 2019 Rugby World Cup is officially underway in Japan and what a weekend it was.Fresh off Wales's bonus point win over Georgia, Brian Moore is joined in studio by former Wales and Lions full back Lee Byrne to discuss the major talking points from round one.England needed 'Fergie time' to ensure their bonus point against Tonga, and friend of the show and World Cup finalist George Chuter is on hand to reflect on their uninspiring performance and to look ahead to their next pool match against the USA.Ireland showed glimpses of their former self by thrashing Six Nations rivals Scotland in a rain-soaked Yokohama. Irish Times journalist Liam Toland makes a welcome return to the show to discuss whether the game was a display of Irish brilliance or Scottish incompetence.The standout tie of the opening weekend came on Saturday morning as tournament favourites New Zealand edged out second favourites South Africa. A relieved former All Black, Zinzan Brook, joins the show and says he expects both sides to get better despite impressing in game one.And we look back on Wales 2011 World Cup campaign with Lee and get his take on the infamous red card shown to former captain Sam Warburton which many argue cost them a place in the World Cup Final.

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Brian Moore's Rugby Podcast

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