Six Tackles With Gus
League legend Phil 'Gus' Gould and Mathew Thompson tackle the biggest talking points in Rugby League each week, delivering bold opinions, deep analysis and inside stories.
Episodes
Can the Knights Finish the Fairytale? Gus’s Grand Final Verdict
Newcastle’s fairytale meets the Roosters’ finals experience as Gus delivers his grand final verdict. He reflects on the Knights’ extraordinary win over Penrith, Phoenix Crossland’s absence and Nathan Cleary’s season, plus shares a classic Andrew Johns story from 2001. There’s also grand final trivia and previews of the NRLW and State Championship deciders. 00:00
Can the Dolphins Make History?
Paul Gallen steps in for Gus as Mat Thompson previews a huge preliminary final weekend. Can the Dolphins overcome the Roosters, and can Newcastle’s fairytale continue against Penrith? Gal gives his tips, assesses the Sharks’ season and explains why he’s returning to the boxing ring. Plus, a classic Ricky Stuart story and a quiz testing Gal’s knowledge of his own caree
Ponga’s Moment? Gus Previews a Huge Finals Weekend
With four preliminary final spots on the line, Gus and Mat Thompson preview Roosters v Sharks and Warriors v Knights. Can the Roosters bounce back from their bruising clash with Penrith, and will Kalyn Ponga inspire Newcastle to an upset in Auckland? Gus reveals the two key inclusions that could swing his Warriors tip, assesses the Dolphins’ premiership chances and discusses Nathan Cleary&rs
Gus’s Life Lesson: Don’t Wrestle with a Skunk
Gus and Mathew Thompson revisit rugby league’s wild old end-of-season trips before Darrell “The Big Marn” Brohman joins them to tell the unforgettable story of Peter Kelly’s encounter with a skunk. Plus, Gus delivers his verdict on the NRL finals, assesses the strengths and weaknesses of every leading contender and reveals why Penrith remain the team to beat. 00:00 NRL fina
Gus Names His NRL Team of the Year
Phil Gould and Mathew Thompson break down the final round of the NRL regular season as the Warriors and Panthers battle for the minor premiership. Gus explains why Lachlan Galvin’s rapid rise is unlike anything he has seen from a young half, assesses the legacies of Adam Reynolds, Payne Haas, Josh Papalii and Jarome Luai, and names his team of the year. The pair also revisit their preseason
Are the Warriors About to Win It All?
Brad “Freddy” Fittler fills in for Phil Gould alongside Mat Thompson for a special edition of Six Tackles with Gus. Freddy ranks the NRL premiership contenders and reveals his number-one team heading into the finals. He also predicts the PNG Chiefs will reach the finals in their inaugural season, reacts to the club’s star-studded recruitment drive and debates whether the Roosters
Inside the Grind: Gus Breaks Down a Week in the NRL
Three rounds remain and the race to the finals is heating up. Phil Gould and Mat Thompson break down Brisbane’s dramatic fall from defending premiers, why Gus still has Penrith as his premiership favourite, and whether Souths can genuinely threaten the top sides. Plus, Gus gives a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at what an NRL training week actually involves, and whether conferences, trad
You Have to Beat the Best on Their Best Day
The Roosters have lost 11 of their past 12 games against Penrith, and Gus believes this blockbuster is their chance to prove they can beat the Panthers when it matters. Gus names Penrith, the Roosters and Warriors as his three genuine premiership contenders, explains why the Warriors have taken a giant step forward and reveals how the Panthers can cover the loss of Isaah Yeo. Plus, the latest on C
Gus Reveals the Most Gifted Player He Ever Coached Against
The finals race is heating up and Phil Gould believes this weekend could reshape the top four. This week on Six Tackles with Gus: Can the Cowboys recover after conceding a record 82 points? Why the Warriors are Gus' upset pick against Penrith. Newcastle's incredible rise and why they're a genuine finals threat. The emotional Andrew Walker tribute ahead of Indigenous Rounds. Why Matt King is the r
Gus Unpacks the Tigers Crisis + His Biggest Tip of Round 22
The Wests Tigers dominate this week's episode after Benji Marshall and Adam Doueihi front the media following one of the biggest stories of the NRL season.Phil Gould explains why the real issue isn't Adam Doueihi refusing to play lock, but how the story leaked in the first place, and why great clubs simply don't allow those conversations to become public.The boys also break down Round 22, discuss
Gus Backs Joey to Coach NSW: “He’ll Regret It If He Doesn’t”
Phil Gould explains why Andrew Johns should seriously consider coaching New South Wales and why the opportunity may not come again. Gus also weighs in on Tom Trbojevic’s future at Manly, Marcelo Montoya’s immediate retirement, Dean Young taking charge of the Dragons, the growing finals race and whether Penrith are beginning to wobble. Plus, Gus reviews the biggest bounce-back wins in r
Let Perseverance Do Its Work: Gus Backs the Tigers’ Tough Luai Call
With Origin now in the rear-view mirror, Gus explains why the emotional hangover can linger for players and clubs as the race to the finals heats up. Gus praises Nathan Cleary’s brilliant decider performance, declares the champion halfback is yet to reach his peak and assesses the rebuild facing Billy Slater and Queensland. The boys also unpack the Wests Tigers’ decision to release Jar
Freddy & Joey preview the 2026 State of Origin decider
Brad Fittler and Andrew Johns share their final words ahead of the 2026 State of Origin decider. 2024 Origin hero Bradman Best joins the show to discuss tactics and gameplan ahead of Game III. Plus, the boys name the best Indigenous player they have played with in their careers. All that and more on a special Origin edition of Freddy & the Eighth.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy informa
100% Footy - State of Origin Special
Special Guest Latrell Mitchell plus inside Blues and Maroons camp.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
"Unleash Liam Martin": Gus' 20-Minute Origin Decider Blueprint
Gus explains why New South Wales can't afford to let Queensland dictate early, why the first 20 minutes could decide the series, and how players like Liam Martin and Addin Fonua-Blake should be used to put the Maroons on the back foot from the opening whistle. Also in this episode: Why Gus was shocked by Brian To'o being left out The selection gamble on Jack Bostock How New South Wales should man
“NSW Can Win”: Gus Blueprint for NSW upset at Suncorp
Phil Gould says State of Origin isn't a talent problem for New South Wales, it's a football problem. This week Gus explains why the Blues are "getting it wrong", how Queensland continue to outplay them in the moments that matter, and what Laurie Daley must do before the decider. Plus, the rise of the Titans, why the Warriors are genuine contenders, Ben Hunt's incredible career milestone, Jak
Stories of Origin: Brad Fittler's Favourite Origin | The Fairytale Farewell of 2004
No one has had a greater influence on New South Wales rugby league than Brad Fittler. A Blues legend, Freddy played a record 31 State of Origin matches for NSW before later coaching his state on 18 occasions. But the Origin story closest to his heart came in 2004, when Phil Gould convinced him to return from representative retirement for one final campaign. It wasn't all smooth sailing. The comeba
Origin on the Line at the MCG | Darren Lockyer Joins Gus + Round 16 Tips
State of Origin heads back to Melbourne with the series hanging in the balance and Darren Lockyer joins Phil Gould and Mat Thompson to break down the biggest Game II storylines. The team looks at the impact of Payne Haas' return, Billy Slater's Reece Walsh wildcard, Laurie Daley's selection calls and whether Queensland can force a decider at Suncorp Stadium. Plus, don’t miss your Round
‘That Shocks Me’: Gus Can’t Understand the Olakau'atu Call
State of Origin selection drama dominates this week's Six Tackles with Gus as Phil Gould questions some of New South Wales' biggest Game Two decisions ahead of the MCG blockbuster. Why isn't Haumole Olakau'atu in the Blues' best 17? Is Mitchell Moses a gamble worth taking? And has Laurie Daley got the balance of his bench right? Gus also breaks down Queensland's changes, explains why the Maroons a
Stories of Origin - Cam Smith's Favourite Origin: Against All Odds
No player has worn the Queensland jersey more times than Cameron Smith. Across 42 State of Origin appearances, Smith became the ultimate competitor, captain and match-winner, helping lead the Maroons through one of the most dominant eras in rugby league history. But when asked to choose his favourite Origin, Smith doesn't go back to the beginning. He picks 2017. It was a series that seemed destine
NEW PODCAST - Mark My Words: Overtrained Broncos, Origin Jitters & Foran Takes the Wheel
Welcome to the Mark My Words podcast, where the Mark Geyer, Mark Levy and Mark Riddell bring you the latest news and passionate chats about NRL rugby league. Go and search for Mark My Words wherever you listen or watch your podcasts. In this episode, the hosts celebrate the Dragons' massive win and joke about the players eating McDonald's. They break down Kieran Foran's new coaching gig at M
Six Tackles Origin Live Special with Jake Trbojevic
State of Origin is back and Six Tackles with Gus is live from The Locker Room at Sydney Olympic Park thanks to TAB. With kick-off only hours away across the road, Mat is joined by Phil Gould, Jake Trbojevic, Josh Reynolds, Josh Morris and special guests for a huge Origin night packed with laughs, footy debate and a few surprises. Will the Blues strike first again… or can Queensland continue
Stories of Origin: Danny Buderus’ Famous Decider
Danny Buderus relives his favourite State of Origin memory, Game 3, 2005. From the heartbreak of Matt Bowen’s intercept in Game 1 golden point, to the return of Andrew Johns and captaining NSW to a famous 32-10 win at Suncorp. At the time, nobody realised it would become the last Blues decider win in Brisbane for almost two decades. This is the story of a team that got knocked down, fo
Gus On Bulldogs’ Toughest Period + Origin Selections
(01:40) Bulldogs issues (08:45) Origin selection headaches(36:40) Ask Gus(46:00) Round preview and predictions NordVPN is giving you a huge discount and four extra months on your NordVPN subscription. To get this exclusive deal, go to nordvpn.com/sixtackles. Phil Gould opens up on the Bulldogs’ rough month, explains where confidence has dropped away, how injuries have hurt th
“I’ve Been Dead for 3 Days” | Gus’ Origin Calls, Magic Round Chaos & The Walsh v Ponga Debate
Phil Gould returns with one of the great podcast openers after revealing a heart monitor scare that led to the line: “I’ve been dead for 3 days.” From there, it’s straight into Magic Round chaos and the biggest Origin talking points heading into team selections. Gus breaks down the Reece Walsh v Kalyn Ponga fullback debate, the Warriors’ decision to release Luke Metca
Stories of Origin: Billy Slater's Favourite Origin - The "Billy the Kid" Breakout
The "Billy the Kid" Breakout: State of Origin Game 2, 2004 In this episode of Stories of Origin, host Matthew Thompson sits down with a true icon of the game, current Maroons coach and Queensland legend Billy Slater. Travel back to 2004, a year that cemented Slater's place in Origin folklore. We revisit the electric atmosphere of Suncorp Stadium and the moment that left the sporting world breathle
80-Point Shootouts & Origin Fears
The game is changing… and Gus reckons it’s happening fast. We kick off with a deep dive into the modern NRL, where speed is up, defence is down, and scorelines are blowing out. We’ve seen 80-point games, record losing scores, and a competition that feels more unpredictable than ever. Is this the new normal… or just a phase? There’s also a big warning around Origin.
Ask Gus: Hardest Worker Ever Coached and Gus’ go-to Chinese dish
This week on Ask Gus, Phil Gould tackles the big questions from listeners. Who was the hardest-working player he ever coached? Did Queensland’s eight straight Origin series wins ever tempt him back into the New South Wales coaching box? Gus also weighs in on whether James Tedesco deserves an Origin recall at 33, whether Melbourne are truly missing Ryan Papenhuyzen at fullback, and even revea
Luai’s PNG bombshell and Gus’ Origin Hypotheticals
Jarome Luai’s blockbuster move to the PNG Chiefs headlines a seismic episode of Six Tackles with Gus, as Phil Gould breaks down what the superstar signing means for the Wests Tigers, the new franchise, and the future player market. Plus, Gus weighs in on Blues Origin hypotheticals, Women’s State of Origin, a mystery guest appearance, and Gus' Round 9 tips. Six Tackles with Gus State of
Stories of Origin: Nathan Cleary’s Masterclass | Season 5 Premiere
He was at his lowest ebb - then he delivered perfection. Welcome to Season 5 of Stories of Origin. as we sit down with the true icons of the game to explore the single Origin match that defined their legacy. We are kicking off this series with a bang. Rugby league’s greatest player, Nathan Cleary, joins us to dissect his favourite Origin game: his absolute masterclass in game two of the 2022
Ask Gus: When Gus dropped Royce Simmons 'He had a LOT of beers'
Gus, I’m looking for a bit of unfiltered coaching history. First, regarding 1991 - as a lifelong Panthers fan, I’ve always wondered about the tough calls you had to make around Royce Simmons during that premiership year. How did you balance the emotion of his career with the tactical needs of the team? SimonSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
ANZAC Round: Resilience, Rebuilding, and the Road to State of Origin
As the nation prepares to pay tribute to our service people, we sit down with former 2nd Commando Damien Thomlinson for an unforgettable conversation on survival, perspective, and true toughness. Plus, we break down a massive week in the NRL: the Dragons enter a new era with Dean Young at the helm and Kade Reed set for his debut, Latrell Mitchell’s stunning form, and the mounting injury toll
Ask Gus: Is Gus Using the ‘Moneyball’ Playbook for the Bulldogs?
In this bonus Ask Gus episode, Phil 'Gus' Gould dives into the mailbag to tackle everything from recruitment philosophy to Rugby League history. We explore the 'Moneyball' philosophy - is there a secret similarity between the Oakland A’s approach and the current Bulldogs rebuild? Gus also gives his hypothetical take on who the Dragons should head-hunt if they had an open cheque book for 2026
"I Can't Understand It": Gus Gould Baffled by Api Koroisau’s Origin Omission
Is this the wildest start to a season ever? The Wests Tigers are equal first, the Melbourne Storm have lost four in a row, and the ladder is completely upside down. In this episode, Gus and Mat break down: Api Koroisau: Despite being one of the premier hookers in the game and a proven winner, Api Koroisau is still waiting for his Origin opportunity. The Storm Slump: Is the Bellamy era facing its
Ask Gus: From Tiny Terrors to Modern Giants
Phil "Gus" Gould and Mathew Thompson dive into the physical evolution of the NRL. From the "diminutive" magic of Alfie Langer and Geoff Toovey to the massive stature of modern playmakers like 6'4" Lachlan Galvin, Gus explains why the "little man" is being blasted out of the front line. Plus, a look at Nathan Cleary’s "majestic" form and why he needs an Origin series win to cement his legacy.
The Foran Coaching Interview, The Panthers Hangover & The Brookvale Blowtorch
This week on Six Tackles with Gus, Phil Gould reveals the startling results on a team after a loss to Penrith. As we head into a massive Easter Long Weekend of footy, Gus weighs in on the Brookvale dramas as pressure mounts at Manly and questions whether Shane Flanagan is already on the chopping block at the winless Dragons. Plus, we look ahead to the annual Good Friday blockbuster between t
Ask Gus: Boyd Breakout, Tigers Trouble & The NRL in 10 Years
Your Ask Gus Questions. Gus breaks down whether Tannah Boyd is the most improved player in the game right now, and what’s behind his rise. He looks at the Tigers’ chances without Jarome Luai and Adam Doueihi. There’s pressure talk too. Should Shane Flanagan be feeling the heat? And could tensions between Gorden Tallis and the Broncos faithful really be sorted over a beer? Plus, a
Broncos Blow-Up: “You Can’t Be a Yes Man”
Coaching drama has exploded just three rounds into the season as the Broncos are rocked by the sudden exit of assistant Ben Te’o, raising fresh questions about leadership and stability at Red Hill. Gus unpacks the situation, what could be happening behind the scenes, and why differences of opinion inside coaching groups are not only common, but necessary. As Gus puts it, you can’t be a
Gus on Wests Tigers: 'It all seems to be moulding together at the right time'
Gus and Mat reflect on an emotional night at Allianz Stadium where Alex Johnston made history by breaking the all-time try-scoring record. Gus shares his personal memories of watching the legendary Ken Irvine and discusses what makes "AJ" such a special part of the South Sydney club. Plus, Tigers Time: Gus is impressed by the team cohesion the Wests Tigers are currently building. A
You can check-out any time you like. But you can never leave!
Phil Gould is back from Las Vegas after seeing the Eagles at the Sphere and breaks down the big statements from Round 1, the Raiders’ hot start, and whether Alex Johnston is about to make NRL history. Plus a Tigers young gun debut, your Ask Gus questions, and Round 2 tips thanks to TAB.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Vegas Bound: Preseason Gains & 2026 Season Predictions
In this episode of Six Tackles with Gus, Mathew Thompson and Phil "Gus" Gould dive into the final preparations for the historic 2026 NRL season opener in Las Vegas. Gus shares behind-the-scenes insights into the Bulldogs’ massive logistical undertaking to move their entire staff and roster stateside, the evolving rivalry with the Dragons, and why he believes the Vegas venture is vital for th
Six Tackles with Gus Is Back! Season Ten Kicks Off with Rule Changes, Origin Eligibility & NRL’s Big Year Ahead
We’re back, baby, and it’s Season Ten of Six Tackles with Gus. Live from The Locker Room at Olympic Park, Phil Gould opens the milestone season with a massive breakdown of the NRL’s biggest off-season changes, from revamped Origin eligibility rules to new rules. Gus digs into what it all means for stars like Kalyn Ponga, Jahrome Hughes and Addin Fonua-Blake and more. There’
The 2025 Grand Final Preview
Phil Gould is out, and rugby league legend Darryl 'The Big Marn' Brohman is in for a massive Grand Final preview! Brohman joins Mat Thompson to dive deep into the Storm vs. Broncos decider, focusing on the key match-ups: Harry Grant to be the difference, Stefano Utoikamanu's rise, and the unstoppable Payne Haas. The Big Marn tackles the infamous 'Yes No No' segment, debating the Panthers dynasty,
#AskGus: Advice, Minor Premiers & Cleary–Luai’s Rise
Gus tackles your #AskGus questions head-on. From the best piece of advice he’s ever received, to whether the NRL really gives minor premiers the reward they deserve, and how Nathan Cleary and Jerome Luai developed into elite players so early.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Why Gus Believes ‘the Hoodoo Is About to End’ – 5 to play 7 in GF
The finals are here and Gus is firing. From the Raiders’ struggles and Nicho Hynes silencing the critics, to Turbo’s uncertain future at Manly and the bombshell of Mark Nawaqanitawase quitting the Roosters - which Gus calls “sad for our game.” Gus explains why he believes “the hoodoo is about to end” with 5 to take on 7 in the Grand Final. Plus, Gus drops his To
#AskGus: The best of 2025
We take a look back at the best of #AskGus from 2025See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
'Statistically, he's the best ever' plus Gus's fearless finals predictions.
The best time of the year is upon us! Finals football! Gus and Thomo break down all the key matchups and storylines for an electrifying Week 1 of the NRL finals. Gus declares Payne Haas to be one of the greatest props the game has ever seen. Gus also dives deep into the state of the Newcastle Knights, giving his take on their long and challenging rebuild. Plus, the forwards are announced for the S
Gus not ruling out shock Grand Final clash + Tries and Moments of 2025
Gus isn’t ruling out a shock Grand Final clash, suggesting the finals could throw up some unexpected contenders from outside the top of the ladder. With September footy just around the corner, the team unpacks all the possible scenarios and surprises. They also dive into the biggest Tries and Moments of 2025 – from Mark Nawaqanitawase’s breakout try to Latrell and Cleary’s
Six Tackles Live thanks to TAB
Join Gus & Mat live from the Canterbury Leagues Club for their first live podcasting recording. With special guests Josh Reynolds & Mark O’Meley plus plenty of #AskGus questions live. It’s all thanks to our mates at TAB.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
#AskGus: Trbojevic Reality Check & Raiders’ X Factor
This week on #AskGus, Gus and Mat tackle some of the big questions from listeners. At what point do Manly have to face the hard truth about the Trbojevic brothers and the toll on their roster? Could the Raiders have the spark to knock off heavyweights Melbourne or Penrith if they make it to the big stage?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
“Along came Harry”: Why Harry Grant could become the best ever
Gus Gould makes a massive claim about Harry Grant's potential, analysing what makes him one of the most brilliant players in the game today. He also tackles the NRL's crippling injury crisis, gives his fiery take on the push for yellow cards for diving, and breaks down the crucial moments from the weekend's games, including the Rabbitohs' gutsy win and the Roosters' strong form. Six Tackles
‘$1.5m is ridiculous money for a front rower’
Gus weighs in on the Titans’ recent struggles, particularly the news that captain Tino Fa’asuamaleaui might test the open market, and offers his strong opinion on the future of coach Des Hasler. He also discusses why he believes James Tedesco is the Dally M favourite, explains why he thinks the Bears’ supposed offer to Tino is “ridiculous”, and shares his thoughts on
Why Gus Refuses to Write Off Any NRL Side Just Yet
Gus doesn't hold back this week, firing up about the Panthers trainer controversy, over-the-top try celebrations, and declaring the NRL competition is tighter than ever. From Sam Backo’s legacy to the Eels' dark horse potential and whether the Dolphins could storm into premiership glory, plus a fiery finals preview, Gus covers a lot! 00:00 - Welcome Gus’ eye surgery Sam Ba
“The Raiders are out of mind, out of sight and that’s an advantage” Gus backs the Green Machine to go all the way.
Gus boldly predicts the Raiders will finish as minor premiers and have a very good chance to go all the way. Lachlan Galvin is likely to have a tough afternoon against his old side, the Wests Tigers, as Gus highlights the young player’s level-headedness. The Melbourne Storm’s premiership chances without Jahrome Hughes are debated, alongside speculation about Ryan Papenhuyzen’s po
#AskGus and the Leichhardt Run That Went Wrong
In this #AskGus edition, Gus gives his unfiltered take on everything from marathon warm-ups to the Bunnies shot at a premiership under Wayne Bennett. He reflects on the evolution of player development, reveals he’s been calling footy with dodgy eyesight for years, and shares a laugh-out-loud story about the time one of his players got literally lost on a pre-game jog at Leichhardt Oval.
Gus on Growing the Game, Great Finishes, and Haircuts at Belmore
Gus shares his thoughts on the growing impact of rule changes in the game. He also makes a strong case for the international growth of rugby league, suggesting that Origin/NRL eligibility shouldn't limit a player's chance to represent their country. And yes, there's even a light-hearted look at the Bulldogs’ latest haircut trends. 00:00 - Welcome Nailbiting finishes NRL golfers
Ponga & Brown: “It’s a lot of money” if Ponga stays.
Kalyn Ponga & Adam O'Brien's future is on the agenda as Gus takes a deep dive into the issues at the Newcastle Knights. Plus, how soon will Josh Hannay take a head coaching job, the impact of Munster on Origin and Gus pays tribute to Kieran Foran's NRL career. 00:00 - Welcome Gal and SBW fight British Open 05:00 - Yes No No 05:10 - Kieran Foran will be one of the m
Bonus Ep: ET Joins Gus for the Ultimate Origin III Preview!
Get ready for a special bonus episode of Six Tackles with Gus! Mat Thompson and Gus Gould are joined by NSW Blues legend Andrew 'ET' Ettingshausen for a fantastic trip down memory lane. Hear incredible stories and insights straight from ET himself as they chat about his illustrious playing career, from his early days to his defining moments in Origin and international rugby league.See omnystudio.c
Ultimate Origin Decider Preview with a Superstar Guest
Gus dissects the Origin decider and explains why he believes Queensland have enough to question the Blues, listen and find out who he thinks can pull this big moment off. Plus Gus is joined by a surprise former Origin star he used to coach. 00:00 - Welcome Gus’ mail is that all NSW will play The main concern is Payne Haas 03:00 - Queensland Where does Shibasaki’s inclusion ran
#AskGus - Important qualities for a coach to succeed.
This week's #AskGus Questions; What are important qualities for a coach to succeed? What position is most important to fill first for the Bears? Is Connor Tracey underrated?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Gus on Papalii selection: “There’s never a bad time to bring experience into Origin”
Gus backs Billy’s Maroon’s Origin selections and reflects on where the Blues went wrong in Game 2. He declares the Dolphins a genuine top-four contender, rates the Warriors’ Barnett injury as a bigger blow than Metcalf’s. Plus, footy’s best venues, NRLW updates, and Round 18 predictions. 00:00 - Welcome 05:30 - Yes No No No No 05:50 - Bulldogs Panthers w
Six Tackles with Freddy: Origin Decider, Aussie Coaching Ambitions & the One That Got Away
Freddy’s in the hot seat this week, filling in for Gus and joining Mat Thompson to preview the Origin decider and share his thoughts on the Australian coaching job. He also unpacks the Panthers’ dynasty chances, a possible rookie of the year bolter in Isaiah Iongi, and why Selwyn Cobbo needs a cuddle, not a rocket. Freddy opens up about nearly signing with the Eels, playing through app
“I can't see the strategy in the way the team's been picked” - Gus on QLD’s Origin 2 hopes
Live from Perth, Gus dissects the Queensland Maroons' Game 2 selections, admitting, "I'm not sure they've addressed the problem" with a forward pack that "doesn't make sense to me." Gus also weighs in on Jarome Luai’s inclusion making NSW "stronger," the crucial role of Kurt Mann, and Kalyn Ponga's impact. He dives deep into the mental side of Origin, answers listener questions on Billy Slat
#AskGus: What Taylan May's signing means for the Tigers' future
In this episode of #AskGus, Gus opens up about the May brothers and what Taylan’s signing means for the Tigers' future. He dives deep into the Warriors’ rise as a powerhouse club and why their success story is just beginning. Plus, who picks the roommates on tour? Gus shares one of rugby league’s funniest rooming mishaps involving Tommy Raudonikis and Steve Mortimer. Proudly brou
Gus Grills the Maroons: Will DCE Drop be a Masterstroke or Mistake?
Gus weighs in on the State of Origin captaincy debate and the shock decision to omit Daly Cherry-Evans from the Queensland squad. He also shares his strong views on the Dolphins' fearless approach to the competition, and offers a passionate warning to buckle up for the Warriors' rise. 00:00 - Welcome Mat in Adelaide for swimming Kikau let off at match judiciary 03:30 - Yes, No No No
#AskGus: Bennett’s Brilliance & Panthers’ Finals DNA
On this #AskGus ep of Six Tackles Gus praises Wayne Bennett’s masterclass in coaching under pressure, reflects on Penrith’s gritty path back to finals contention, and shuts down a wild Origin rumour.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Gus backs the Broncos: “I don't see lack of effort at all”
Gus breaks down the Broncos’ ongoing struggles, calling out how they can be their own worst enemy. He weighs in on Lachlan Galvin’s impact since joining the club, has his say on Origin II selections, unpacks the new Kangaroos coaching gig, and shares fresh insights into the Trbojevic brothers’ contract talks. 00:00 - Welcome 04:00 - Broncos woes 11:20 - Yes No No No&n
Stories of Origin Magic Moments: The Dream Decider
Back in 1994, Phil Gould’s Blues stunned Queensland by winning a decider at Lang Park - a feat unmatched for nearly two decades. Then came Game 3, 2024. It was brutal. Tryless for over an hour. Every inch hard-fought. Then, with the series in the balance, Bradman Best crashed through - pure power, pure Origin. Madge’s Blues had done it again. History repeated. A dream decider. Featurin
Origin 1 Review: “There are a lot more tries on offer for NSW”
Gus breaks down New South Wales' dominant performance in the State of Origin opener, with a deep dive into the effectiveness of their right-side attack and the halves' control. They also touch on the Women's Origin, discuss the impact of Max King, and answer listener questions, including potential changes for Queensland in Game 2. Plus, a tribute to Fatty, and a preview of the upcoming NRL round.
Stories of Origin Magic Moments: Ben Hunt - Go Dozer!
Lang Park. Suncorp Stadium. Call it what you like - it’s hallowed ground. The kind of place where Queensland legends are made. Where the spirit of Origin greats like Beetson, Jackson, and Tosser Turner lingers in the air. In this episode of Stories of Origin: Magic Moments, we rewind to Game 3, 2022 - a decider for the ages. With just under two minutes on the clock and the series on the
'It drives me crazy. It’s so amateurish' Gus on Origin team announcements
Gus and Thomo discuss all things Origin including the selection of Robert Toia and how it is an “inspired” choice from Billy Slater. Gus blows up at the announcements of the Origin teams and how for years he has been saying it needs to be a special event on a Sunday night. Reece Walsh is in the headlines for a video as Gus discusses the impact of social media and the evolvi
Stories of Origin Magic Moments: Turvey Triumphant
After five painful years of Maroon dominance, 1985 was the year New South Wales said “enough.” They turned to Canterbury’s fearless halfback Steve “Turvey” Mortimer - a man with blue blood and an unbreakable will - to lead the charge. From stirring pre-game speeches to that unforgettable chair-lift off the SCG, Mortimer’s passion and grit did
NSW Halves Selection Dilemma
Gus dissects a number of potential Blues’ selection calls ahead of teams being announced, including the halves and wing spots. Praise for the Women’s NSW Origin team after taking out the series in Sydney. Can the Tigers bounce back from their disastrous loss to the Storm last week, and is Mal Meninga the man to lead the Perth Bears? Plus Gus’ Round 11 tips, proudly br
Six Tackles released Friday May 16
This week's episode of Six Tackles will be released on Friday the 16th of MaySee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Stories of Origin Magic Moments: The Miracle Try
If you need to understand Origin in just one moment, it’s the closing minutes of Game One, 1994. The Blues were cruising - 10 points up with 10 to play - until a wave of maroon belief swept the Sydney Football Stadium. Alfie Langer to Kevvy Walters, Michael Carne joins, Renouf streaks down the touchline, Hancock keeps it alive, Darren Smith inside, back to Alfie… BIG MAL sets the stag
Gus’s NSW forward pack for Origin One
Gus picks his NSW pack and addresses rumours about Spencer Leniu. Brandon Smith is set to join Souths right away - Gus wonders why the Roosters let him walk. Dom Young is being shopped around and wants to play centre, while David Fifita’s big pay‑packet has him stuck in reserve grade and Gus has some advice for what he does next. Plus Six Tackles Trivia and don’t miss Gus&r
Stories of Origin Magic Moments: Teddy's Match Winner
A series decider at ANZ Stadium. The Blues teetered on the brink, heartbreak hanging over Homebush once more - until one breathtaking chain of passes rewrote Origin folklore. Relive the frantic final minute: Cordner to Murray, Pearce punching through the line, Trbojevic unleashing Ferguson on white-knuckle tippy-toes down the sideline, and - like lightning - James “Teddy” Tedesco divin
“I don't get it” - Gus on the the Roosters signing DCE rumours
Gus cant get his head around the rumours swirling that Daly Cherry-Evans could be on his way to Roosters with all the young halves they have. Gus and Mat discuss the expansion to the West and how it wont be easy recruiting big names over. Gus also gives a rare insight into his coaching career, discussing the emotional challenges of handling losses and the importance of maintaining emotional
Stories of Origin Magic Moments: Arthur Beetson's Arrival
In the 45th year of rugby league’s fiercest rivalry, Stories of Origin is back with its most emotional season yet - Magic Moments: As Voted By You, thanks to TAB. Across six epic episodes, fans chose the plays that made them shout, cry and believe again, and the legends who lived them tell every raw detail. We kick off where Origin itself began: Arthur Beetson’s thunderous return to La
Gus has his say on who the NSW halfback should be
Gus analyses Mitch Moses' impact on Parramatta and what it could mean for NSW. The Lachlan Galvin saga isnt going away anytime soon and Gus has his say on the matter. Are the Raiders a genuine premiership threat? Is it time for the NRL to introduce a transfer period and draft? A huge preview of the most important day of the year - ANZAC Day. Plus all Gus' tips and #AskGus questions answered, proud
