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The Monday Club

The Irish News

Join the debate with 'The Monday Club', a GAA podcast from The Irish News. Every week our top team will bring you honest opinion, analysis and craic, alongside all the big talking points from the game, on and off the pitch.


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  • 22 episodes
  • weekly
  • Avg 1 hr 3 min
  • English
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  • S1 · E32
    Monday · 59 min

    Kieran McGeary on ‘imposter syndrome’, post-2021 frustration and making most of Tyrone days

    Tyrone GAA star Kieran McGeary is the latest guest to join Neil Loughran and Cahair O’Kane on The Monday Club. In this week’s episode McGeary reflects on the fine margins at the top level of Gaelic football after Mayo’s All-Ireland triumph. McGeary discusses his decision to spend five months travelling the world before coming back in time for championship, conversations with Malachy O’Rourke, and why the break left him feeling re-energised and ready to give his all to the Red Hand cause. Then there is 2021 - the year Tyrone survived a Covid storm to emerge as All-Ireland champions, with McGeary going from a disappointing opening day outing against Cavan to being named GAA/GPA Player of the Year. The Pomeroy man lifts the lid on what it was like behind the scenes in the Tyrone camp that summer, and frustration at being unable to get back to the same level in the years that followed. IN ASSOCIATION WITH FIND INSURANCE NI Find Insurance NI has been supporting Northern Ireland businesses for 50 years, building a strong reputation for commercial insurance expertise and trusted service across the region. We started here, we stayed here, and we’ve grown with the local business community — working with companies of all sizes. Call 08000 126 367 or visit findinsuranceni.co.uk , Facebook or LinkedIn Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • S1 · E31
    August 31 · 51 min

    'It's like nothing exists outside of kicking a ball' - Antrim captain Eoghan McCabe on the demands of GAA

    Antrim captain Eoghan McCabe joins Neil Loughran and Cahair O’Kane on this week’s episode of The Monday Club. Since becoming an online coach, the St Gall’s man has amassed over 40,000 followers across various social media platforms. He talks about the ups and downs of that lifestyle and how his own attitude and that of others towards it has developed over the years. McCabe also talks about his career with Antrim to date. He was installed as captain in the early part of the 2026 league campaign and he speaks about attempts to drive standards, how Antrim are trying to narrow the gap and what they learned from last year’s Ulster Championship clash with then-All Ireland champions Armagh. IN ASSOCIATION WITH FIND INSURANCE NI Find Insurance NI has been supporting Northern Ireland businesses for 50 years, building a strong reputation for commercial insurance expertise and trusted service across the region. We started here, we stayed here, and we’ve grown with the local business community — working with companies of all sizes. Call 08000 126 367 or visit findinsuranceni.co.uk , Facebook or LinkedIn Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • S1 · E29
    August 3 · 1 hr

    Was this GAA championship season the best ever? The Irish News team look back on a sparkling summer

    In a special episode of The Monday Club podcast, the Irish News sports team look back on a championship season which many are calling the best ever. Paul McConville is joined by Kenny Archer, Cahair O’Kane, Andy Watters and Neil Loughran to discuss the memorable moments, the main talking points and the individual performances which shaped this year’s championship. Mayo’s incredible All-Ireland success, their first in 75 years, rightly grabbed all the headlines, but what about all those other memorable days throughout the summer? The panel look at their other top moments, discuss whether the new format has been a success or not and try and pick their Player and Young Player of the Year. They also look at which Ulster teams can look back on the championship with some form of satisfaction and which still have work to do. IN ASSOCIATION WITH FIND INSURANCE NI Find Insurance NI has been supporting Northern Ireland businesses for 50 years, building a strong reputation for commercial insurance expertise and trusted service across the region. We started here, we stayed here, and we’ve grown with the local business community — working with companies of all sizes. Call 08000 126 367 or visit findinsuranceni.co.uk , Facebook or LinkedIn Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • S1 · E28
    July 27 · 58 min

    The West’s awake and Mayo are in dreamland after All-Ireland SFC final win over Kerry

    Mayo’s celebrations may last a month but on this week’s episode of the Monday Club podcast, we delve deep into an All-Ireland win 75 years in the making. Paul McConville is joined by Kenny Archer, Cahair O’Kane and Andy Watters to reflect on Mayo’s win over Kerry in Sunday’s All-Ireland final in Croke Park. The team discuss the outpouring of emotion in Dublin and look at the mental fortitude shown by Mayo after falling seven points behind at one stage in the first half. They dissect the pivotal moments, praise the approach of manager Andy Moran, the tough decisions he had to take and highlight the contribution of coach Paddy Tally, who has now won All-Ireland titles as a coach of three different counties. IN ASSOCIATION WITH FIND INSURANCE NI Find Insurance NI has been supporting Northern Ireland businesses for 50 years, building a strong reputation for commercial insurance expertise and trusted service across the region. We started here, we stayed here, and we’ve grown with the local business community — working with companies of all sizes. Call 08000 126 367 or visit findinsuranceni.co.uk , Facebook or LinkedIn Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • S1 · E27
    July 20 · 1 hr 4 min

    Boom or bust for Mayo in All-Ireland Championship final against Kerry - will it be 12th time lucky?

    On this week's Monday Club podcast, Neil Loughran is joined by Cahair O'Kane and Armagh GAA legend Stefan Campbell to look ahead to Sunday's All-Ireland Senior Football Championship final. Reigning champions Kerry take on Mayo as the battle for Sam reaches its conclusion at Croke Park. Will it be another All-Ireland success for the Kingdom? Or can Mayo finally end their barren run after losing their last 11 finals? IN ASSOCIATION WITH FIND INSURANCE NI Find Insurance NI has been supporting Northern Ireland businesses for 50 years, building a strong reputation for commercial insurance expertise and trusted service across the region. We started here, we stayed here, and we’ve grown with the local business community — working with companies of all sizes. Call 08000 126 367 or visit findinsuranceni.co.uk , Facebook or LinkedIn Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • S1 · E26
    July 13 · 1 hr 5 min

    The VAR debate, and how the All-Ireland Championship semi-finals were won by Kerry and Mayo

    On this week's podcast, Neil Loughran is joined by Cahair O'Kane and Andy Watters to dissect all the drama (and controversy) surrounding the weekend's All-Ireland SFC semi-finals, and ask the lingering question: Is it time for VAR-type technology to be introduced to the GAA? They also give their verdict on Wicklow's incredible comeback win over Down to seal the Tailteann Cup. IN ASSOCIATION WITH FIND INSURANCE NI Find Insurance NI has been supporting Northern Ireland businesses for 50 years, building a strong reputation for commercial insurance expertise and trusted service across the region. We started here, we stayed here, and we’ve grown with the local business community — working with companies of all sizes. Call 08000 126 367 or visit findinsuranceni.co.uk , Facebook or LinkedIn Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • S1 · E25
    July 6 · 1 hr 3 min

    Kerry vs Dublin and Louth vs Mayo: An All-Ireland semi-final weekend to relish

    On this week's podcast Neil Loughran is joined by Cahair O'Kane and Andy Watters to look ahead to a huge weekend of All-Ireland semi-final action. Sunday sees a renewal of Gaelic football’s most storied rivalry - Dublin v Kerry, and a first championship meeting between these heavyweights since the 2023 final. On Saturday it’s the meeting of Louth and Mayo - with both determined to end a long search for Sam before a full house at Croke Park. Before that, on Saturday afternoon, Down and Wicklow clash in the final of the Tailteann Cup - with a guarenteed place in next year’s All-Ireland championship up for grabs. IN ASSOCIATION WITH FIND INSURANCE NI Find Insurance NI has been supporting Northern Ireland businesses for 50 years, building a strong reputation for commercial insurance expertise and trusted service across the region. We started here, we stayed here, and we’ve grown with the local business community — working with companies of all sizes. Call 08000 126 367 or visit findinsuranceni.co.uk , Facebook or LinkedIn Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • S1 · E24
    June 29 · 1 hr 21 min

    Were Tyrone shafted? All-Ireland championship: The remarkable rise of Louth and Monaghan regret

    Stefan Campbell and Cahair O’Kane join Neil Loughran on this week’s Monday Club podcast to reflect on a momentous day for Louth, an opportunity missed for Monaghan and the refereeing decisions that contributed to Tyrone’s All-Ireland exit… IN ASSOCIATION WITH FIND INSURANCE NI Find Insurance NI has been supporting Northern Ireland businesses for 50 years, building a strong reputation for commercial insurance expertise and trusted service across the region. We started here, we stayed here, and we’ve grown with the local business community — working with companies of all sizes. Call 08000 126 367 or visit findinsuranceni.co.uk , Facebook or LinkedIn Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • S1 · E23
    June 22 · 55 min

    Who wins from weekend of All-Ireland chaos?

    Andy Watters and Cahair O’Kane join Neil Loughran on this week’s Monday Club podcast to weigh up the All-Ireland quarter-final draw, why it all went wrong for fancied Donegal and how Armagh will look back at 2026. IN ASSOCIATION WITH FIND INSURANCE NI Find Insurance NI has been supporting Northern Ireland businesses for 50 years, building a strong reputation for commercial insurance expertise and trusted service across the region. We started here, we stayed here, and we’ve grown with the local business community — working with companies of all sizes. Call 08000 126 367 or visit findinsuranceni.co.uk , Facebook or LinkedIn Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • S1 · E22
    June 15 · 55 min

    Rivalry renewed: Armagh draw Kerry again

    Stefan Campbell and Irish News sports journalist Cahair O’Kane join Neil Loughran on this week’s Monday Club podcast, as they pick the bones out of Monday morning’s draw and, in particular, that meeting of the last two All-Ireland champions. IN ASSOCIATION WITH FIND INSURANCE NI Find Insurance NI has been supporting Northern Ireland businesses for 50 years, building a strong reputation for commercial insurance expertise and trusted service across the region. We started here, we stayed here, and we’ve grown with the local business community — working with companies of all sizes. Call 08000 126 367 or visit findinsuranceni.co.uk , Facebook or LinkedIn Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • S1 · E21
    June 8 · 1 hr 21 min

    Can Tyrone carry momentum into Mayo clash? Or will Red Hand revival fall flat?

    Irish News journalists Kenny Archer and Cahair O’Kane join Neil Loughran on this week’s Monday Club podcast to pore over where Tyrone's revival sits in the wake of victory over Connacht champions Roscommon in the opening round of All-Ireland games. Mayo – comprehensively beaten by the Rossies at the provincial semi-final stage – are up next at O’Neill's Healy Park on Sunday, and the lads question whether Malachy O’Rourke’s men can find the consistency to back up that performance at Dr Hyde Park. Louth, meanwhile, won the battle to host their clash with neighbours Armagh in Inniskeen – should Croke Park even have been in the conversation? And who will benefit most from playing at Grattan Park, given the Orchard’s familiarity with the ground? The remainder of this weekend’s All-Ireland SFC games are also up for discussion as we weigh up whether Derry have to enter desperation mode against Meath, if Monaghan can go to the well again, and how Donegal are shaping up nice for their return to Ballybofey. IN ASSOCIATION WITH FIND INSURANCE NI Find Insurance NI has been supporting Northern Ireland businesses for 50 years, building a strong reputation for commercial insurance expertise and trusted service across the region. We started here, we stayed here, and we’ve grown with the local business community — working with companies of all sizes. Call 08000 126 367 or visit findinsuranceni.co.uk , Facebook or LinkedIn Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • S1 · E20
    June 1 · 1 hr 4 min

    Armagh’s patient approach, Soupy memories, and GAA’s brightest young stars

    On this week’s episode Neil Loughran and Cahair O’Kane are once again joined by former Armagh forward Stefan Campbell. The panel reflect on the Orchard county’s weekend win over Derry in the All-Ireland series, and discuss the strengths of Kieran McGeeney’s side - and Derry’s flaws. Stefan and Cahair also offer differing opinions on Jason Duffy’s black card, while the lads give their verdict on who did it better: Tiernan Kelly or Bobby McCaul? In a bumper show Stefan offers an insight into shooting practice during Armagh’s training sessions, and hails a current Monaghan star who proved one of his ”toughest opponents”. There’s also a nod some of GAA’s brightest young stars, including one teen who is Aussie-bound. IN ASSOCIATION WITH FIND INSURANCE NI Find Insurance NI has been supporting Northern Ireland businesses for 50 years, building a strong reputation for commercial insurance expertise and trusted service across the region. We started here, we stayed here, and we’ve grown with the local business community — working with companies of all sizes. Call 08000 126 367 or visit findinsuranceni.co.uk , Facebook or LinkedIn Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • S1 · E19
    May 25 · 1 hr 7 min

    Tyrone’s ode to the king, and one battle after another in Killarney

    Paul McConville, Cahair O’Kane and Andy Watters reflect on all the main talking points from the weekend's GAA action, including the controversy that unfolded in the heated showdown between Kerry and Donegal. They discuss Jim McGuinness’ reaction - both on and off the pitch - to the angry half-time scenes in Killarney when Donegal’s Ryan McHugh was left with a nasty gash over his eye following a clash with Micheal Burns, who was red-carded. They also ask if McGuinness could be hit with a hefty suspension. Also on this week’s podcast, we reflect on the incredible life and career of Tyrone legend Frank McGuigan, the ‘King of Ardboe’, following his death at 71. Paul, Cahair and Andy also look ahead to this weekend’s All-Ireland games, including a big Ulster showdown between Armagh and Derry. IN ASSOCIATION WITH FIND INSURANCE NI Find Insurance NI has been supporting Northern Ireland businesses for 50 years, building a strong reputation for commercial insurance expertise and trusted service across the region. We started here, we stayed here, and we’ve grown with the local business community — working with companies of all sizes. Call 08000 126 367 or visit findinsuranceni.co.uk , Facebook or LinkedIn Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • S1 · E18
    May 18 · 1 hr 2 min

    Armagh’s ‘sweet’ Ulster success, McGeeney’s long-term goal, and Kerry vs Donegal preview

    Neil Loughran is joined by Armagh legend Stefan Campbell and Cahair O’Kane to reflect on a big weekend for the Orchard county. They give their verdict on Sunday’s Ulster Championship final at Clones, with Kieran McGeeney’s side getting their hands on the Anglo-Celt Cup for the first time in 18 years. ‘Soupy’ reflects on a “sweet” victory for Armagh over Monaghan, and what it means to the team after so much heartache in the competition. Also on this week’s podcast, Neil, Stefan and Cahair look back on Sunday’s Leinster final which saw Westmeath overcome Dublin, and ask if the Dubs’ fear factor is well and truly gone. And there is also plenty of chat on the All-Ireland series getting under way, including this weekend’s huge clash between Kerry and Donegal, a repeat of last year’s final. IN ASSOCIATION WITH FIND INSURANCE NI Find Insurance NI has been supporting Northern Ireland businesses for 50 years, building a strong reputation for commercial insurance expertise and trusted service across the region. We started here, we stayed here, and we’ve grown with the local business community — working with companies of all sizes. Call 08000 126 367 or visit findinsuranceni.co.uk , Facebook or LinkedIn Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • S1 · E17
    May 11 · 58 min

    The big TV debate, Ulster Championship final countdown, and roaring Rossies

    aaaa The Irish News’ Neil Loughran, Andy Watters and Cahair O’Kane discuss a big week of GAA. They assess the short and long-term implications of the decision to give GAA+ the rights to show Kerry vs Donegal ahead of RTÉ. Ahead of this weekend’s Ulster final, there’s an in-depth look at how Monaghan might find a way to clamber over an Armagh team that has lost the last three finals on the bounce. There is also a look at Roscommon’s gripping win over Galway that saw them complete a clean sweep of senior, U20 and minor championship titles in Connacht. IN ASSOCIATION WITH FIND INSURANCE NI Find Insurance NI has been supporting Northern Ireland businesses for 50 years, building a strong reputation for commercial insurance expertise and trusted service across the region. We started here, we stayed here, and we’ve grown with the local business community — working with companies of all sizes. Call 08000 126 367 or visit findinsuranceni.co.uk , Facebook or LinkedIn Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • S1 · E16
    May 4 · 1 hr 17 min

    All-Ireland draw, the two faces of the Ulster Championship, and Antrim hurling’s ongoing crisis

    In a bumper podcast, Neil Loughran, Cahair O'Kane and Kenny Archer chat about Monday’s All-Ireland draw - and a huge tie of the round. They also look back on an ‘absolutely insane’ weekend of Ulster Championship action, punctuated by Monaghan’s stunning win over Derry. Then there was Sunday’s one-sided romp as Armagh dismantled Down in the second Ulster semi at Clones. There’s a nod to the quality of personnel at Kieran McGeeney’s disposal, and what lies ahead for Down in the Tailteann Cup following a hugely disappointing afternoon at the office for Conor Laverty’s side. Also on this week’s episode, what next for Antrim’s hurlers as the uncertainty surrounding Davy Fitzgerald’s position continues to unfold? IN ASSOCIATION WITH FIND INSURANCE NI Find Insurance NI has been supporting Northern Ireland businesses for 50 years, building a strong reputation for commercial insurance expertise and trusted service across the region. We started here, we stayed here, and we’ve grown with the local business community — working with companies of all sizes. Call 08000 126 367 or visit findinsuranceni.co.uk , Facebook or LinkedIn Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • S1 · E15
    April 27 · 1 hr 10 min

    Down’s tactical masterclass in dismantling Donegal and what they can expect from Armagh

    On this week’s show Neil Loughran is joined by Cahair O’Kane and Paul McConville. They look at Down’s shock Ulster Championship win over Donegal and dig deep into exactly how manager Conor Laverty plotted the downfall of the Ulster champions. The Mournemen now look forward to an Ulster semi-final with fierce rivals Armagh and the panel size up the task facing Down. We also take a look at the other Ulster SFC semi-final between Derry and Monaghan and a glance at how the other provincial championships around the country are progressing. IN ASSOCIATION WITH FIND INSURANCE NI Find Insurance NI has been supporting Northern Ireland businesses for 50 years, building a strong reputation for commercial insurance expertise and trusted service across the region. We started here, we stayed here, and we’ve grown with the local business community — working with companies of all sizes. Call 08000 126 367 or visit findinsuranceni.co.uk , Facebook or LinkedIn Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • S1 · E14
    April 20 · 57 min

    Down have a mountain to climb, while Armagh and Donegal wary of Ulster Championship underdogs

    The Irish News’ Neil Loughran and Cahair O’Kane are joined by Armagh legend Stefan Campbell to dissect all the main talking points from the GAA. They pore over the weekend action and a shock in Leinster which could have implications for Down’s All-Ireland aspirations. Westmeath’s win over Meath puts them one win away from a Leinster final and crucially a spot in the Sam Maguire at the expense of the Mournemen, who occupy the number 16 slot at present. Things don’t get any easier for Conor Laverty’s men as they make the trip to Letterkenny to face reigning Ulster champions Donegal. The panel discuss what chances Down have of pulling off an upset and what they can learn from last year’s Ulster semi-final defeat to Donegal. There’s also a look at the other Ulster clash this weekend between Armagh and Fermanagh and why their narrow win over Tyrone might just be the perfect preparation for Kieran McGeeney’s men as they continue their quest for a first Ulster title since 2008. IN ASSOCIATION WITH FIND INSURANCE NI Find Insurance NI has been supporting Northern Ireland businesses for 50 years, building a strong reputation for commercial insurance expertise and trusted service across the region. We started here, we stayed here, and we’ve grown with the local business community — working with companies of all sizes. Call 08000 126 367 or visit findinsuranceni.co.uk , Facebook or LinkedIn Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • S1 · E13
    April 13 · 55 min

    Armagh and McIlroy dig deep for victory, and Ulster Championship’s land of opportunity

    Neil Loughran is joined by Cahair O’Kane and Andy Watters to dissect Armagh’s epic Ulster SFC clash with Tyrone. The panel look at what either team can take from the game. Is it a wake-up call for Armagh? Can Tyrone bank the positive energy and help it fuel their All-Ireland campaign? Armagh weren’t the only ones who had to dig in for victory. Rory McIlroy’s back-to-back Masters victory looked like being a procession, but ended up seeing the Holywood man showing some grit and determination to get over the line. The Monday Club team reflect on McIlroy’s historic win. With the championship up at running, we take a look at this week’s Ulster quarter-finals involving Derry and Antrim and Cavan and Monaghan. IN ASSOCIATION WITH FIND INSURANCE NI Find Insurance NI has been supporting Northern Ireland businesses for 50 years, building a strong reputation for commercial insurance expertise and trusted service across the region. We started here, we stayed here, and we’ve grown with the local business community — working with companies of all sizes. Call 08000 126 367 or visit findinsuranceni.co.uk , Facebook or LinkedIn Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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