Bears Beyond The Gate

The five key takeaways from the pod this week after a few cheeky beers and bit of rugby banter…

1. Bears suffered an "absolute shellacking," losing 50-17 after falling 31-0 down by halftime, though the lads accept that Saracens' performance was "outstanding" and they probably would have beaten any team in the league it was that good.

2. The Bears just couldn’t convert any of pressure that they did create struggling with red zone efficiency and only scoring only 17 points from 12 entries into the 22 despite having 62% possession and 57% territory overall. Was it case of Sarr...

Duration: 01:03:39

We chew over the opening day bonus point victory from the Media Conference Room at Ashton Gate. We were the only ones in it mind but it was still quite exciting nonetheless.

A shaky first half, where Tigers did a 'Radwan' on us, subsequently developed into a comfortable victory as the intensity increased, the pack took control and Prem debutant Tom Jordan ran the show.

The atmopshere at the stadium was excellent as the Bristol faithful wallowed in the early Autumn sun and it was somehat apt that as the vicotry strains of 'Drink up...

Duration: 00:49:20

Pod friend James Dun makes his second appearance live from the BBF Taproom to tell us how pre-season has gone, talk us through how the boys will prep for the game during the week and even make some of his own suggestions for ramping up the atmosphere at the Gate, in particular searching for George Kloska look-a-likies in the crowd...

As always, we appreciate his time and it's good to see the 'fourth mic' getting some more action.

We also hear from Elliott Butlin from <...

Duration: 00:59:32

Having reached a double ton at the end of last season wth the help of emerging club and Instagram legend James Dun, the boys road-test their brand new crowd funded recording equipment at the BBF Taproom Studio Bar for the season seven opener with Bears CEO Tom Tainton, who, lets be honest, was well impressed with the set up and admtted that he had never done a pod in a lock-in before.

The boys asked him briefly about his journey to the top before diving in with some of the sorts of questions that we hope our...

Duration: 01:14:06

Running order:

00.00 - 14.30: Re-living the semi at the Rec

14.30 - 18.40: Back to the start of the season and the focus on cohesion

18:40 - 25.45: Pronouncing Ravouvou, thoughts on Rubiolo and gym strength

25.45 - 30.45: Integrating the Internationals

30.45 - 41.00: Lee's list of positives, centurion or not centurion and Wooley tribute

41.00 - 52.30: European campaign, man love for BJVR and the Clermont cauldron

52.30 - 70.07: Quick fire questions:

Fitzy's real name?Batesy's super skill? England aspirations?Next season's squad?Nicknames?

And then an abrupt finish as the m...

Duration: 01:10:07

After being 'super-excited' for the game on Friday and reaching high peaks of excitement at half time we talk about the glorious defeat to them down the road in the play off semi final at the Rec.

It was everything we had hoped for bar the final score but just like that, the season was over.

Having spent the afternoon at the cricket, and with the 200th episode looming, we decide to do a 'half pod' instead.

We talk through the incidents, the individual performances and muse on what might have been.

<...

Duration: 00:39:46

In this week's episode we re-live a fantastic day down the Gate when the Bears secured their first play off berth in four years with a resounding 52-26 victory over Quins. The Bears Way was on display in its full roller-coaster splendour although to be fair they weathered a small storm in the second half and then powered to the finish line, much to the frenzied delight of the majority of the 20,000 fans in the stadium (minus the Quins supporters who, to be fair, seemed very gracious in defeat).

The prize? Another visit to one of our...

Duration: 01:03:38

Join Pete and Lee as they review the Friday night loss at Sale and how Saints' win against Sarries has provided us with a play off lifeline.

At least things are simple now. Win against Quins and we are in the play offs.

Lose and we probably won't be...

Up the Bears!

Let us know what you think!

Duration: 00:53:38

It's been a long time coming and it has divided opinion, but Saturday saw 51,000 spectators descend on Cardiff for the Big Day out at the World's premier rugby stadium. We review both the pre-match atmosphere, the game itself and what we can take forward to the tough away game at Sale. It is customary to mention Enya at this juncture but we need to put lazy puns aside and focus on the task ahead. 

Bears got the 5 points that they needed to keep themselves on play-off life support but how good was the victory really given it w...

Duration: 00:57:32

You’re listening to Bears Beyond The Gate episode 196. Yes 196.

We’re three fans who love the club, the game and all things Bears.

Each episode we talk about the game that’s gone, the game that’s coming up and anything else that takes our fancy as long as it is vaguely Bears related. We try to be as balanced as possible but ultimately we are trying to reflect the views and opinions of paying punters from all ages, backgrounds and demographics. We don’t take ourselves too seriously but we do try to say it as...

Duration: 01:04:14

Only a couple of hours after the end of the disappointing defeat against Tigers we knock out a pod.

It's raw and a bit unstructured and involves a long discussion about how many more fortress metaphors we can realistically use before just giving up and accepting that we're never going to win lots of home games in a row.

Supporting Bristol continues to be like riding a roller-coaster but today it felt like we were more at Peppa Pig World than Alton Towers.

Are play off hopes in the balance or can we...

Duration: 00:53:56

Miles and Pete break down the humbling defeat at Gloucester by piecing together what they can remember from an excellent away day in the Shed. 

Bristol's defence left a little bit to be desired but fair play to Gloucester as they were on fire and it was an honour to witness once of best no-look offloads in the history of rugby union.

Despite the heavy defeat, the Bears still remain in second place after this mini block of games but the pack are closing fast. Does the fact that we have shipped 15 tries in two g...

Duration: 00:46:32

We run through the key moments of the 52-38 victory at a pulsating Ashton Gate as the Bears saw off the Chiefs with a disciplined second half display after losing Santi Grondona to a red after 30 minutes.

The first half however...

We also briefly look forward to the away fixture at Kingsholm with a game of 'who is most likely to...?' and finish with a short discussion about the merits or otherwise of the proposed plan to introduce dedicated away fan sections. Finally, Miles doffs his tweed cap to the career of Amber Reed...

Duration: 00:54:57

We look forward to the return of the Premiership after the long Six Nations hiatus with a little help from Sports Reporter Elgan Alderman from The Times who was the ONLY journalist to tip Bristol for glory at the start of the season. We ask him why he went against the tide of peer opinion and whether he thinks we've still go it in us to go all the way.

We also review the Bears Woman' semi final loss at Queensholm and ponder over the fact that every single stat apart the final score went...

Duration: 00:51:42

This week we focus on the Bears Women's upcoming semi-final play off with Gloucester-Hartpury on Sunday 2nd March at 3pm.

Not only do we invite a proper dual season ticket holder onto the pod as a special guest but we also have an exclusive and in-depth interview with Dave Ward and Tom Luke. They give us a behind-the scenes deep dive into the season so far as well as their thoughts on how they will plan and prep for the play-off. 

It's a fairly lengthy and interesting chat after which we discuss a few of t...

Duration: 01:16:00

The boys are back at the Bristol Beer Factory for yor favourite Bristol rugby lock-in.

Unashamedly long but to help you out here is the running order:

0 - 6m45s: Intros, beer review, riders and the BBF Quiz night details6m45s - 22m0s: Bears Women's win at Quins and qualify for play-offs22m0s - 29m33s: PWR Commentator cliches29m33s - 30m40s: Instagram followers roll of honour30m40s - 36m30s: Bears Men beat Bath again but don't qualify for play-offs36m30 - 44m30s: Post-match Pat and even more...

Duration: 01:19:20

As we head towards the Six Nations break we are sitting pretty in second place in the Prem table on 40 points. 

It might have been a bit of a topsy turvey win against Falcons that we appeared to try and win at least three times, but ultimately we scored 8 tries and pulled away in the final 'quarter'.

We break down the game in our somewhat cheery and rambly way as well as going off on a few tangents with thoughts on whether we should sign Santi Carreras and whether it was appropriate for the England p...

Duration: 00:57:19

You’re listening to Bears Beyond The Gate, a Bristol Bears podcast made by fans for fans. We three regulars at Ashton Gate who love the club, the game and all things Bears.

This week we look back on two Saturday fixtures with the Women going first with a bonus point victory 43-29 win against Leicester Tigers women at Ashton Gate and the Men managing to snatch defeat from the Jaws of a Draw at the Stade Marcel Michelin in Clermont-Ferrand.

It was another welcome 5 points for the Women in their quest for a play of...

Duration: 00:59:28

The boys come together at the Bristol Beer Factory after a couple of cheeky pints to review the narrow victory at the Gate aganst Benetton. It was an inconsistent win but with plenty to be postive about despite almost losing at the end. 

Before that though, Miles issues a public apology to the whole Italian nation and we run through a large list of people who we saw at the game.

We then offer our analysis based on what we could actually remember as well as broadening the discussion to all manner of rugby-related subjects, i...

Duration: 00:58:52

So, after the Christmas comedown, a visit to Saracens was always going to be a tough assignment given their team and our track record in North London. 

In the end a cheeky point was probably about right although we did look a few gift horses in the mouth and on another day we might have left with a few more.

The Bears Women were also in action today with nearly 10K fans at Ashton Gate keen to catch a glimpse of Ilona Maher and equally as importantly, a league victory. 

They got the fi...

Duration: 01:23:21

In this week's episode Miles is off sick so we bring in a heavyweight replacement to provide laser sharp analysis of where it all went wrong.

Welcome Mr Dave Attwood for his second appearance on the pod!

Dave breaks down Friday's disappointing result from a recent player's perspective and we jump on his bandwagon to give our view from the stands.

Ultimately we decide that it's a blip that needs to be flushed down the toilet and never be mentioned again.

That said, we continue with our listener poetry which is...

Duration: 00:54:29

We are back after a two week break and dive straight into a quick review of the tough European campaign. A great effort from the lads away at La Rochelle but ultimately we are sitting at the bottom of the table. We briefly discuss what this might mean for the ‘Andy Uren derby’ when Benetton come to town in January  and then swiftly move on to more pressing matters…

You know…

The rugby massacre at Welford Road.

We do our best to give justice to the record-breaking events that unfolded on Saturday with a smorgas...

Duration: 01:15:29

In a very short late Sunday night post-match pod Pete and Miles reflect on the defeat to Leinster at a very windy Ashton Gate.

Lets be honest - they were lucky to be 7-7 at the break having lost two men to the bin and struggling to find a way through the Bristol's inspired defence that also had to contend with the loss on AJ MacGinty after 5 mins, and a reshuffle that put BJVR at fly half.

However, they were lucky enough to have both a World Cup winner and runner up on the bench...

Duration: 00:23:24

To mark the European heavyweights from Dublin's visit to Ashton gate on Sunday, former Bristol Bear and Leinster player Ian Madigan joins us for an episode packed with insights and nostalgia. 

He shares treasured memories from his time at Bristol, revealing what it was like to play under Pat Lam's leadership and how it shaped his approach to rugby. We also talk about Ian's transition to life off the field, where he's now navigating the worlds of television and marketing, and the exciting news of expecting his first child. 

Plus, Ian spills the beans on Le...

Duration: 00:37:59

Let us know what you think!

Duration: 01:06:00

Ever wondered how professional rugby players navigate the transition from one team to another while maintaining their game and sanity? 

Join us as we chat with Callum Sheedy and Dan Thomas, ex Bears who recently set up shop in Cardiff. They share what it's like to move from familiar territory, the emotional rollercoaster of starting anew, and how commuting together helps them stay connected to their roots. You'll hear a personal story or two about their first days at ther new club, the nerves, the laughs, and the camaraderie that makes rugby life worth it.

T...

Duration: 00:49:27

What happens when you mix a makeshift dining room studio with lively rugby banter? 

You get a fun-filled episode of Bears Beyond the Gate! 

Join us as our usual podcast space at the Bristol Beer Factory Taproom is commandeered by the BBC, forcing us into the homely pod studio.

Miles shares his up-close experience from the England versus Australia clash at Twickenham but despite England's loss, the electrifying atmosphere, seamless pint access, and scrumptious street food made it a day to remember.

We also review the previous night's exhibition match vs Au...

Duration: 00:50:52

In this week’s episode we discuss the extent to which Ashton Gate is on its first steps to becoming a fortress after the first home win of the season against Saints despite our general lack of historical knowledge and the fact that the boys had to dig deep from 15-0 down.

We also analyse TNT’s official post match interview with Joe Batley as well as our own unofficial one with pod favorite AJ ‘Adge’ MacGinty.

As well as the regular ‘poet’s corner’ we introduce a new angle with ‘relatives corner’ - where current players te...

Duration: 00:59:34

In this week's episode we re-live the agonising defeat against Sarries, who are now well established as our Ashton Gate bogey team.

We were much the better side but just couldn't put the game to bed when in front and on top. However it was a great spectacle for the 18K fans who turned up for the family day double header and long may the fast flowing and exciting rugby continue.

We talk about both games and have soundbites from James Dun, fans from both teams and also, for the first time ever, post match...

Duration: 01:06:59

This week the boys break down yet another away win for the Bears down at Sandy Park. 

At 32-12 down with all stats against us and only 14 minutes left on the clock, we somehow snatch victory from the jaws of defeat leaving us in dreamland and top of the table after four games.

We try to make sense of the mayhem whilst opening cans of beer and marveling at how sometimes fact is stranger than fiction.

After that we look forward to Family day next Saturday and the double header vs Sarries with h...

Duration: 01:03:21

We can bearly contain ourselves this week as the Boys went to the Rec on Saturday as underdogs but left it with a wholehearted Blackbird ringing in their ears. It was a game of passion, purpose and no little skill on both sides but for the 145th time in the history of this fixture the Bears were triumphant.

We break down the events at the Rec and then look forward to the next game at Chiefs with the help of SW Rugby writer John Evely. 

We've had to cut down on the acrostics t...

Duration: 01:13:57

In this week's show Pete and Miles review the Friday night harem scarum defeat to Gloucester with help from many listener contributions and the Deputy Manager of the Bristol Bear Factory, Lewis.

It was one of those games where every single statistic was in our favour apart from the one that matters, that is, the final score and perhaps on another day we would have strolled to victory. But we didn't.

That said, the Cherry and Whites played with purpose and passion and undoubtedly forced us into frustrating errors that gifted them a lot of...

Duration: 01:13:51

This week we review the start of the Premiership with the gritty but points-profitable win away at Newcastle. 

Was it a solid start with a few leanings or rather as good as you might expect given the time of year, the weather and the fact that they are coached by Steve Diamond?

We read out listener thoughts, both poetic and prosaic, give our views on the game and forensically analyse Bennard Janse Van Rensburg's post match interview in full.

Next stop is Ashton Gate for the first renewal of the Rifles Cup and w...

Duration: 01:02:59

The boys get Season 6 (yes 6!) off to a solid start from the world famous Bristol Beer Factory and 'talk about' the following things:

The Big Day out - good, bad or a bit of both?The new home and away kit - obviously good but just how good?The pre-season game vs Dragons - Miles and Pete report back along from a wet night at Clifton RFC with a bonus post-match sound bite from Pat and a during-match one from Harry Randall.The season ahead - the squad is discussed.Miles' 'merch' - the Duke comes up with...

Duration: 00:57:50

The lads finally manage to organise a time to meet up and record their final thoughts on what turned out to be yet another roller coaster season for the Bears.

They run through the season and their memories of each game, reveal the results of the listener vote and outline one final Lee-related Goat. Has he managed to secure a seat for next season or have sinister forces been at play working against his desire to come in from the cold like a modern day George Smiley?

Listen right to the end to find out!<...

Duration: 01:15:25

In this week's pod we re-live our epic journey to SW London on the Supporters Coach where we experienced, quite simply, one of the best rugby away days ever.

We loved the Stoop...

We loved the running rugby...

We loved the ale and the Chicken Caesar burger (albeit a bit pricey)

And one of us loved the cheeky little techno DJ...

What a day, what a win and what a shame Sarries let us down. Oh well, at least Pete can play cricket on a Saturday, Miles can sort...

Duration: 01:06:07

In this week's episode, Pete, Miles and Lee review the defeat against Saracens at Ashton Gate. Despite a good start the Bears ultimately lost control of the game in the face of an incredibly experienced, focused and effective opposition who delivered a classic 'been there, seen that and worn the T-shirt' sort of performance led by the mercurial Owen Farrell. Fair play to the them. They did a job, played some decent rugby and got the result they needed. No real complaints from us.

We then look forward to our BBTG away day trip on the coach...

Duration: 00:52:46

This week we pick over the carcass that was the massacre in BS3 and we’re not talking about the hammering of Falcons at Ashton Gate last weekend. 

No, we’re talking about the first ever live pod at the Bristol Beer Factory Taproom. We look back on an evening of structured chaos, discuss the learnings and then move quickly on to more pressing matters such as the fantastic victory yesterday away at Welford Road that keeps play off hopes firmly in our own hands.

19- zip down on 69 minutes and we’re looking...

Duration: 01:03:52

It's a carnival atmosphere down at the Bristol Beer Factory Taproom this week as having constantly 'talked about' doing a live pod the lads actually execute one straight after the 13-try massacre of Newcastle Falcons at Ashton Gate.

It's raw and it's raucous but the lads try their best to analyse the game despite 10% off the beers and 50% of the champagne.

They also look towards Tigers and beyond and dare to believe. Back in the top four from no-where. Can we? You bet we can... 

We also discuss a re-signing, a departure and a...

Duration: 01:07:47

In this week's episode we formally announce our first ever live pod, in the sense that we are inviting an audience to the Bristol Beer Factory Taproom post Falcons at 6.30pm next Sunday.

If you are interested in finding out more, and even contemplating joining us, then complete the Eventbrite registration below (it's free but it helps us get an idea of numbers) as well as the Google form where you can submit a question in advance and provide us with answers to a few short questions about the...

Duration: 00:41:44

You’re listening to Bears Beyond the Gate, a Bristol Bears podcast made by fans for fans. We’re two and a half season cardholders at Ashton Gate who love the club, the game and all things Bears.

Well, Miles is happy as Pat listens to his selection advice from the ski slopes of France and moves Max to full back, Noah Howard to the wing and gives Gengey the starting berth at loosehead.

And it works, as Bristol retain the Rifles Cup by winning at Kingsholm for only the third time since 2006.It’s an enj...

Duration: 00:52:18

In this week’s episode Pete and Miles dial in from their respective ski resorts  whilst Lee shakes his head at the whole middle classy-ness of it all.

That said, it was worth the effort as the boys chew over the fantastic victory against Saints on Friday and give their thoughts on what was very close to being the elusive 80- performance. They discuss various key moments in the game, reflect on the myriad quality performances and celebrate the atmosphere down at the Gate.

When it comes to Northampton Saints it really does seem that the...

Duration: 00:41:50

In this weeks's episode we preview the return of the Prem with help from the Telegraph's Charlie Morgan. It's been a long break but there's all to play for and as we're only three points off 6th and six points off 4th can we dare to dream?

We also comment on Pat's interview on Bears TV this week and then try and pick the team for Friday. With a lot of players seemingly available it's actually quite a pleasurable task.

Finally we also revel a piece of news that will send shockwaves around BS3. Yes...

Duration: 01:02:20

In the second of our occasional 'doc-pods' we head towards the end of this long fallow period by hearing from Paul Morgan, who is  the Communications Lead of PWR and previously Communications Director at Premier Rugby and before that editor of Rugby World. He talks about the rebranding of the PRW this season, his thoughts about Bears Women team and offer some more general thoughts on where domestic rugby union is going given the challenges that is has faced in recent times. 

Sit back, relax and enjoy and a preview of the Premiership re-start, with a special gu...

Duration: 00:34:55

In this week's slightly delayed pod (technical difficulties) we hear from Bristol legend and current Galway resident Joe Joyce . He gives us some insight into what it's like getting  a bit of niggle going with some of your best mates in the European Cup, speaks candidly about why he left his home town for pastures new and 'talks about' his future aspirations as well as revealing a surprising candidate for 'hardest man' in the Bears camp.

We also review the excellent Bears' Women victory against Saracens on Sunday with help from one of our occasional roving reporters, M...

Duration: 00:59:41

It's only Pete and Lee this week down at the Bristol Beer Factory Taproom supping a couple of cheeky beers, as Miles calls in sick at the last minute.

However, they still manage to fill the time, with help from listener posts, discussing the Bears Women victory against Loughborough Lightening in particular and how their season is hotting up more generally, as well as intertwining their thoughts with other subjects as wide ranging as Super League netball and the importance of not doing well in GCSE mock exams.

Realising that time is moving on, they...

Duration: 00:58:09

In this week's BUMPER episode we hear from Dave Attwood about:

His life since retirement...His time at the Bears and what it was like working under Pat...THAT semi final defeat and why it all went wrong...What he thinks about Bristol's season so far AND how we are not 'a million miles away from clicking' and finally...His answers to some incredibly searching short sharp questions, including one that is on every fan's lips i.e what might be considered appropriate attire at rugby matches...

We then...

Duration: 01:27:24

In the first ever Bears Beyond The Gate 'docu-pod' we hear from Kiera, Kaye and Sophie about the work of the Bears Together Supporters Advisory Committee (SAC)  an initiative  that was announced at the start of the season as a way of the club being able to gather more direct feedback from fans about off-field matters. They talk about who they, and other members of SAC are, how the first meeting went and their aims of for the future. They are there to represent US so if you have any comments or suggestions for them please complete th...

Duration: 00:17:24

As the Premiership takes a mid season break for the Six Nations, we review the monumental banger at Ashton Gate as Bristol maintain their seven-game home town winning streak against Bath. Basically it was just a mental game of rugby. Multiple line breaks, gorgeous offloads and 14 tries AND virtually no box kicks or scrums. It was rugby played the way it should be!

As well as hearing from both sets of fans before and after the game thanks to our brand new audio recording device and Miles wearing a huge pair of headphones, we also read out a...

Duration: 01:02:01

In this week's episode we welcome work experience fella Reg to deputise for Lee who is still in witness protection after his new year Bristol Post article - or is he just taking the Christmas Tree down?

We discuss the poor result and performance against Connacht which essentially saw us dumped out of both European Cups in one go and debate what this means in terms of goals and targets for the rest of the season and beyond. Is change needed and if so, what should it look like?

That said there is of course...

Duration: 01:10:27

Vote for us at the Sports Podcast Awards 2024 and help us bring home some silverware for the Bears! Click on the link below...

https://www.sportspodcastgroup.com/sports_category/best-rugby-podcast/

And in other news, the Bears lose to a decent Bulls outfit who out-muscle them in the scrum and generally look a bit better all round. Hear our thoughts and then those of Alan and William from Connacht's 'The Craggy Rugby Podcast' as they help us preview the final pool game from gorgeous Galway. The audio clip also includes Joe Joyce's post match interview after...

Duration: 01:05:58

In this week's show we prepare, bake and scoff large amounts of humble pie after the surprise Bears' victory away at Sale Sharks. How can we be so bad and so good all in one week? We get the views of regular social media followers and also hear from yet another roving reporter who saw the game live, as well as throwing in our thoughts and opinions for good measure.

The last time a South African side game to the Gate a whole nation was disappointed but this time we welcome the Bulls in the next round...

Duration: 01:03:43

Crocodile Dundee returns to chew the Christmas cud with a somewhat unstructured ramble thought the festive period culminating in a long discussion about the impacts of last Friday's hugely disappointing defeat against Exeter 2.0 in front of sell-out crowd. Despite leading 14-12 at the break the Bears were bageled in the second half at the hands of a young, hungry and well drilled outfit leaving many fans wondering were we go from here. You'll have to put in a big oral shift to find out what we think!

In other news we have been shortlisted in the 'Best...

Duration: 00:54:17

In this week's episode we relish the record breaking 51-26 victory over Gloucester and the retention of the Rifles Cup. After five losses on the bounce this was as a cathartic an experience as you are likely to get and the relief flowing around the Gate on the final whistle was palpable. We read and hear the thoughts of our listeners and then briefly discuss what this means for our chances against Lyon and Bordeaux as we head for a brief diversion to the group stage of the Champions Cup before diving back into the Premiership again either side...

Duration: 00:54:35

We slip to a fifth defeat in a row at the Stone X but battle hard for a cheeky try bonus point which was the least we deserved. We may have scored a couple of worldies but we also shipped seven and if Owen Farrell had put his boots on the right way round it could have been a lot worse. We review the game with help from a few listeners and the Chair of the Supporters Club and then look forward to the Rifles Cup on Saturday which really, really, really is now a must, must, must win...

Duration: 01:11:22

In this week's episode - our 150th - we chew over the agonising last ditch defeat at the Rec with help from our listeners and reflect on how we really need to start getting on the right side of 'fine margins' otherwise the season is going to slip away. That said, there were plenty of positives to take from the game and we pray that they might be somehow converted into points, cheeky or otherwise, at the Stone X stadium on Saturday. On that note we hear from Jez Denton from Saracens' Fezcast pod and spend a lively few...

Duration: 01:12:01

Let us know what you think!

Duration: 01:00:52

WARNING - THERE IS THE SOUND OF RAIN FALLING AT VARIOUS POINTS DURING THIS RECORDING BUT WE WERE TRYING SOMETHING NEW SO BE PATIENT WITH US!

😩

So, our unerring ability to snatch defeat from the jaws of victory 
continues with a second frustrating result in a week down at Sandy Park. To be fair it was a gritty performance at the place where both Sarries and Sale have recently been humbled and a hat trick of cross field kick tries for Rich Lane was a delight to behold but ultimately, we came away...

Duration: 00:47:33

So, the brief winning run is over thanks to a last gasp penalty for Quins at the death on Saturday. It was family day at the Gate but unfortunately the Bears were unable to keep all the kids happy with a mixed display that included some very good but also some frustratingly sloppy bad. Ultimately we were the architects of our own downfall and our decision making under pressure and sometimes not under pressure came back to haunt us.

We look back at the game with help from our listeners again and discus the extent to which...

Duration: 00:57:14

It's the first time in three years that we have won away at Franklin’s Gardens although after going 18-9 down early in the second half it was great to see the boys ‘dig’ themselves out of a hole and ‘sow the seeds’ of a victory with a penalty and a converted try before the break ultimately making Miles ‘soil’ his pants at the death by efficiently managing the game out in the second half.
We revel in this bonus point 33-27 victory and continue our strategy of involving our listeners in the pod by hearing from two roving fan rep...

Duration: 01:00:05

Well, the waiting was over and after an extended pre-season the Premiership finally returned to Ashton Gate with the visit of Leicester Tigers. With both teams missing international players, it was an opportunity for new signings and squad players to impress, and impress they did, albeit mainly for Bristol. At 25-0 up and cruising some of us were wondering whether we were going to get that magical 80-minute performance in game day one. However, the second half was more of a battle but ultimately it was a very satisfactory win. We chat about the game and those players who...

Duration: 00:46:44

In this week's episode we round up the Premiership Cup/pre-season campaign and reflect on the shellacking meted out to poor Cambridge who were universally challenged all over the park. It was great to see a tsunami of tries but we ultimately finished second in our group and therefore miss out on two more games and a chance of silverware later on in the season . Should we be disappointed that we didn't manage to progress or should we just be grateful for the various 'hit-outs' that it afforded us as we build to the start of the Premiership?
<...

Duration: 00:54:44

In this term’s opener we reveal some earth shattering news from the summer break but pull ourselves together and cast an eye over the pre-season so far.

After welcoming the Baa Baas to Ashton Gate with a gift of 50 plus points, shipping even more down at Sandy Park with a team requiring parental permission to play, and then getting ‘edged out’ by Ealing Trailfinders the week after, we celebrate our own bit of edging with our thoughts on the last gasp victory over Northampton Saints at the weekend. Ultimately we all agree that it’ll probably be the f...

Duration: 00:36:32

In our final  episode of the season we discuss the bonus-point victory against Gloucester which wasn't quite enough to gain a Champions Cup place next year.

In this bumper edition we look back at our highlights of the past year and chat about the impact some of our departing players have had on the club and the fans. We give our thoughts on the player of the year and who has improved the most.

We then go through the retained list and give our thoughts on the strengths and weaknesses of next season squad.
Duration: 01:40:49

Feelings run high in BBTG Towers as the Bears fall to a 22-21 defeat away at Exeter despite playing with an extra man for 60 minutes. A high penalty count and some costly errors mean the Bears lose another winnable game and face a last-day battle for a Champions Cup place for next term.

Hear our thoughts on the game, tactics and levels of commitment as Bristol came up just short yet again this season.

We also look ahead to Gloucester's visit to the Gate on Coronation Day, discuss the Women's semi-final defeat to Exeter in...

Duration: 01:12:30

It was Go Green night at Ashton Gate but fans we're left seeing red and feeling blue after tasting defeat yet again against Sale as the Sharks glided off with a 20-36 victory. Hear our thoughts about the tactics, performances and one or two other things that caught our eye on Friday night.

We discuss the trip to Exeter for the penultimate game of the season and speculate on the Chiefs line up with their Champions Cup semi final the following weekend. Will they go big against Bris' or hold players back fro the European tie?
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Duration: 01:00:57

Welcome to this week's show where we discuss the 26-33 home defeat at the hands of Clermont. A couple of gift-wrapped tries in each half meant Bristol had too much to do to snatch a victory at the end. All in all, a disappointing end to our European campaign.

We also discuss the nine players who have extended their contracts plus the two new arrivals for next season. Also hear our thoughts on next year's season ticket prices and the current loyalty scheme.

All this and more with Tony, Lee and Pete.

Let...

Duration: 01:15:15

Our four game winning streak came to an end on the road at Leicester but despite the 46-22 final score this was a game we could have won if we'd taken our chances and looked after our discipline.

Hear our thoughts on the player performances, key moments and what it means for our league campaign.

We then look ahead to the European Challenge Cup game at home to Clermont on Friday night. Hear our thoughts on team selections and Bristol's chances of making the quarter finals.

All this and more with TC and...

Duration: 00:58:09

It may have been a Sunday service, but there was nothing Godly about the rugby filth on show as Bristol backed up last week's big win with a another try fiesta to beat Harlequins 51-26.

Memories of the 'Bristanbul' semi final defeat to Quins are starting to fade as Bristol completed the double on the fancy dans from South West London.

Hear our thoughts on the game, player performances and what has happened to turn our team into contenders for a top half finish and perhaps even more.

On the minus side we...

Duration: 00:59:00

Hell yeah. After a very long wait we finally got to see a full 80-minute performance from the Bears as they dismantled Northampton by nine tries to one.

Hear our thoughts on the game, player performances and the sheer joy of Friday night after a long and fairly bleak winter.

We'll also look ahead to the next game against Harlequins on Sunday and discuss the departures of Andy Uren and Sam Bedlow next season.

All this and more with TC, Pete and Miles.

Let us know what you think!

Duration: 01:01:54

This week we talk about Bristol's 15-13 win against old rivals Bath at the Rec. In one of the scrappiest games of the season the Bears pulled of the win, despite a stuttering performance.

Hear our thoughts on the game and the player performances.

We also look forward to the next home game against the Saints with the help of Tom Vickers, Sports Writer for the Northampton Chronicle and Echo.

There's also six contract signings to discuss and rumours that a British Lion might be crossing the border to join the Bears next...

Duration: 01:09:58

This week we talk about the long awaited 30-12 league win at home against Newcastle. After a 77-day break since the last home game in the Premiership, Bristol stepped up to grab a bonus-point victory with the last play of the game.

Here our thoughts on the match, standout performances and what this means for the remaining campaign.

On this show we are also joined by Bath Bytes for a preview of the game away at the Rec. Get the inside line on Bath's form and how the big derby game may go.

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Duration: 01:11:11

In this week's show Pete and Lee chew over the last minute defeat against Saracens. How on earth did we manage to lose that one and what is it about the Bears and game management?

More of a therapy session than an analytical deep dive the lads at least try to make some sort of sense of the nonsensical. Was it just 'one of those things' or symptomatic of wider malaise within the squad?

On the positive side we balance it out a bit by celebrating some excellent individual performances, look forward to a 20% flash...

Duration: 00:47:54

A first half performance by Bristol which was full of brio warmed the cockles of  the Ashton Gate faithful as a home tie in the Challenge Cup round of 16 was secured despite getting five points docked earlier in the week. After conceding an early try the Bears roared back with five unanswered dots over the whitewash with some sparkling back play built on the foundations of much improved discipline.

The second half, however, was less impressive  as Perpignan briefly threatened to spoil the show but eventually came up short despite Bristol scoring the square root of 'eff al...

Duration: 01:02:26

In this week's show the boys discuss the win against Parma-Zebre in round three of the European Challenge Cup. After a totally forgettable first period the half time team talk seems to work for a change and eventually the Bears pull away with a feast of tries in the final quarter.  Seeing both Harry Randall and Siva Nualago back on the park and seemingly firing on all cylinders was a real boost although eventually the pack got their discipline sorted and we started to resemble a proper team again.

We also look forward to the Friday game u...

Duration: 00:57:41

In this week's show the boys discuss the hugely dissapointing display that led to the 23-7 loss away at London Irish. Too many penalties, turnovers and mistakes and too little possession and territory was the story of a wet and miserable day in West London for Bears' fans.

We analyse the performance and ask what next for Pat and the team after yet another league defeat.

We also look ahead to the European Challenge Cup fixture in Parma against Zebre. We discuss the likely team and assess how important a cup run is to Bristol's...

Duration: 00:51:55

In this week’s show the boys discuss the dramatic victory at the Stoop that brought a much needed league victory. Hear our thoughts on THAT tap tackle and the Marler/Heenan incident. 

We also look ahead to the next game away at Brentford with Jerry Brown, chair of the London Irish supporters association. 

All this and more with Tony, Miles and Pete. 

Let us know what you think!

Duration: 01:07:38

In this episode the boys discuss the 35-19 win against Parma Zebre that leaves the Bears undefeated in Europe this season.  Two early gift-wrapped tries gave us momentum in a game played at a wet and chilly Ashton Gate. 

We also look forward to the re planned game on 27 December. New venue and a new kickoff time. We speak to our friends at the  Harlequins Podcast and get their thoughts on the match and the likely result. 

All this and more with Tony, Miles and Pete on an online recording. We’ll be back in 2023 but un...

Duration: 01:07:25

In this show the Bears are back to winning ways with a hard fought 5-19 away win against Perpignan. Hear our thoughts on the game and player performances. 

We also discuss the next game against Zebre, Eddie Jones’s departure and the sad confirmation that the Wizard of Oz is leaving BS3. 

Let us know what you think!

Duration: 00:40:51

In this week's show we discuss the 26-26 draw with reigning champions Leicester Tigers. The Bears managed to stop their six game losing streak but a MacGinty penalty in the dying seconds fell short as did our hopes of a win.

Hear our thoughts on the game, Semi Radradra's long-awaited return and the cards that changed the momentum in the game. We also ask where was the rejuvenated Brizzley? Surely he's not injured after one appearance!

In the podcast we also look ahead to the start of our European Challenge Cup campaign, with an away...

Duration: 00:57:04

In this week's pod we discuss the encouraging yet ultimately disappointing defeat at Sale which leaves us without a Premiership win in six games and staring down the barrel of being bottom at Christmas. The returning big guns certainly fired a few shots but a lack of precision when it really mattered dogged us again. With a fired up Tigers visiting the Gate next Saturday we finally get organised with a Pete's Premiership Preview and talk to Mike Cooper of the Rolling Maul podcast to get his take on their season so far and what we might expect to...

Duration: 01:03:43

In this week's show we reminisce about the Bears 26-18 victory over South Africa A in front of a record-breaking attendance at Ashton Gate.

The boys discuss the game and the off-pitch events this made this game one that will live long in the memory. But find out why Lee had to raise a Gets My Goat from Thursday night.

We also discuss Bristols 38-31 loss away to Gloucester in the Premiership Cup and the Women's convincing opening league victory against Wasps.

We look ahead to the next league game against Sale, mourn...

Duration: 01:01:12

In this week's show we discuss Bristol Bears 31-12 friendly win against Cardiff at Ashton Gate.  Hear our thoughts on the game, performances and the match day announcer!

We then look ahead to Thursday's big Game against a South Africa XV at a sold out Ashton Gate. Find out who we think will play against the Boks and why it is so important the off-pitch experience is good for first time visitors to the Gate. We also think about the Team Pat will send to Gloucester in the Premiership Cup a mere two days after the South A...

Duration: 01:02:10

In this week's show we just have to get a few things off our chests. It is a "Gets My Goat" special after a night to forget at Ashton Gate.

Bristol fell to a 25-10  defeat against Saracens in what was billed as a "Fireworks Spectacular". But much like the promised pyrotechnics, the Bears failed to ignite on the night as our losing streak continues. Hear our thoughts on the tactics, excuses and player performances.

We also look ahead to the friendly against Cardiff, discuss the performances of our International Bears and comment on a n...

Duration: 00:59:23

In this week's show the boys take a look ad the disappointing defeat at Franklin's Gardens. After a promising opening 10 minutes the Bears conceded 38 points without reply and eventually lost 45-31 to Northampton Saints.

Just about everything that could go wrong, did go wrong on a day to forget that included injuries to Joyce, Piutau and Capon. Hear our thoughts on the tactics, selections and player performances. 

We also look ahead to the visit of Saracens to the Gate on Bonfire Night and give our view on selections and score predictions. 

All this an...

Duration: 01:07:10

In this week's show we discuss the 29-0 victory against Bath in the Premiership Cup. Harry Thacker helped himself to a hat trick as an experienced Bristol team overwhelmed Bath at the Rec.

We also look forward to the next league game away at Northampton Saints and give our thoughts on selections and score predictions.

In a busy week off the pitch we discuss the news that Kyle Sinckler has extended his Bristol contract, our surprise about Dan Thomas's hastily arranged loan to Scarlets and the signing of Will Porter from Wasps as scrum half...

Duration: 00:55:52

In this episode we discuss the narrow 31-28 loss to Gloucester at Kinsgholm. After chastening defeats to Newcastle and Exeter this was an improved performance by Bristol, even if some basic errors cost us dear. Hear our thoughts on player performances and the key points from the game.

We also talk about the A Team's game at Exeter and the Women's cup game against Loughborough Lightening. There's also our thoughts on Wasps likely demise and rumours that the Bears might be looking at Dan Robson as scrum half cover.

All this and more with Lee...

Duration: 00:52:54

Bristol follow up their hugely disappointing loss away at Falcons with something even worse  - a record home Premiership points defeat at the hands of SW neighbours Exeter Chiefs. 

After a reasonable first half the second is a shocker leaving the Bears' faithful stunned on fan appreciation night and sadly the only followers leaving the Gate with grins on their faces were those from down the M5.

We analyse what went wrong and 'look forward' to another tough assignment on the road at Kingsholm. 

On a happier note we talk about the signing of...

Duration: 00:53:13

There are four grumpy Bears on this podcast after Bristol's hugely disappointing defeat away at bottom club Newcastle Falcons in the league. A catalogue of errors and lapses in discipline let the Falcons swoop for their first win of the season. Hear our post mortem on the game and the players' performances.

We also discuss the midweek defeat at home to Exeter in the Premiership Cup. Two young sides locked horns with the Chiefs coming out on top. Find out which of the young players stood out for TC on the night.

We also discuss...

Duration: 00:54:43

In this week's show we discuss Bristol Bears 40-36 home win against London Irish. That's three wins in a row to start the season and 14 out of 15 available points collected. Hear our thoughts on the key moments and our review of the players' performances. 

We also look ahead to the mid-week game against Exeter Chiefs in the Premiership Rugby Cup and the next league game away at the faltering Falcons. We speculate on who we may see on Wednesday night and who will be kept fresh for the Newcastle game.

All this and much more w...

Duration: 01:07:07