From The Rookery End - A show about Watford FC

This is another special retrospective episode of From the Rookery End. In these podcasts we take an in depth look back at some of the most pivotal moment in Hornets history, having previously covered the 1997 thrashing of our friends up the M1, the breathless Play Off Semi Final victory at St Andrews in 1999 and of course, our tribute to THAT goal by friend of the podcast, Troy Deeney.Well, they say you never forget your first time, so on this podcast we are going to make sure, by going back 40 years to the day (if you are listening on release day!) to look at Watford’s first ever appearance in the FA Cup Final.Of course, the result didn’t exactly go to plan (we don’t think this is a spoiler!) but it was still a historic day, and one which is looked back upon fondly by generations of the Hornets faithful. In this podcast we try to encapsulate what it was like to be a Watford fan during that famous cup run, culminating in that sunny day at Wembley in May 1984.This show ahs been brought to life by a wide range of contrinbutiors, without whom this simply wouldn’t have been possible, so a huge thanks to Olly and Geoff Wicken, Frances Lynn and Adam Cummigs - the voice of Vicarage Road’s Radio Hornet during the 70’s and 80’s.You’ll also hear from three familiar voices - men who were boys back in 1984 - Matt Rowsson, author Lionel Birnie and our very own Jason Bailey. Thanks to them all for their amazing contributions, which we’re certain you’ll enjoy. It’s 1984, and thi is From the Rookery End.

With the 2023/24 season done and dusted, Jon, Jas, DCW and Mike convened to dish out the season awards…in (very) alternative categories.Awards were dished out in the categories from the 1989 Smash Hits Poll Winners Party (kids ask your parents or head for Google). Expect to hear who scooped Best Group, Best Solo Singer, Best Single, Best Pop Video and Most Horrible thing on Earth, amongst a plethora of other pop culture themed categories.You know what, it’s proving hard to describe, so it’s best you just listen. Welcome to the Alternative, alternative 2023/24 end of season awards. Welcome to From the Rookery End.Come on you ‘Orns.

As Watford's home season comes to an end, with a 1-0 home won against Sunderland, the FTRE team had a end of season night out with a curry!You'll hear from Jas, Adam D, Colin, Jordi, Kieran and Jon, discuss the last home game as well as the appointment of Thomas William Cleverley and the impact it will have on our club.COME ON YOU ORNS

Zero goals and still no home win, but there is still plenty to discuss on the latest From the Rookery End.Mike, Jon and Jas talk through the stalemate with a largely toothless Tigers, run the rule over the Player of the Season contenders (including a controversial suggestion from Mike) as well as looking at the impact and importance of Junior Hornets events like the one held on Saturday. The visit of Aidy Boothroyd to Vicarage Road also gives the boys an excuse to reminisce about one of the most unexpected and enjoyable season la of recent times.In short, there is plenty to go at. Thanks for listening to From the Rookery End. Come on you ‘Orns.

After a draw away at Ipswich in the week and almost grabbing a point away at Southampton, Jon, Jason and Adam discuss their reaction to the performances. And. as the end of season is apprapching faster and faster with each passing day, they look ahead to which players are likely to be pulling on a yellow shirt* in the starting XI come the first game of the 2024-2025 season. This is From The Rookery End*next seasons shirt should be mainly yellow, but we are all aware of the high black content we've had in the last few season. And it could also be an away strip

Play Off chasing PNE were the visitors for Tom Cleverley’s latest audition for the permanent Head Coach role at Vicarage Road, and while the game was a surprisingly tame affair, there’s plenty for Mike, Jon and Jas to get stuck into in this, the latest From the Rookery End.The chaps got together on Sunday morning to talk Tom Dele Bashiru continuing to impress, Edo Kayembe and his likeness to a run away bin lorry, the new side to Mileta Rajovic, mascots, Gentry Day and a whole heap more.Don’t let the bore draw put you off; it’s well worth a listen. This is From the Rookery End. Come on you ‘Orns.

After two two-two draws, over easter - Jon, Colin and Kieran discuss Tom Cleverley's new look Watford and its 3-5-2. Which players benefited for it, which it did not? How far has Thomas Cleverley got to being named the full time Watford Head Coach?

After heading to St Andrew’s to take in Tom Cleverley’s first game as Watford boss, Adam Drury and Mike joined Jon to talk through the first game of the TC era.Mike and Adam talk about the atmosphere and the stand out performers, while also, now we've gained 48 points and probable safety, cast an eye forward as they try to work out how the rest of the season may look.Watford are back to winning ways. This is From the Rookery End. Come on you ‘Orns.

Bonser Out! is the latest book from The Watford Treasury and in this episode Jon speakes with four members of the team to find out more about the book and what life like as a Watford fan in the 1970s. He talks to Geoff Wicken, his brother Olly, Richard White and Colin Payne to talk about the heroes, the ups and downs and exactly who was Bonser and why did everyone want him out?Get a copy of the book from The Hornet Shop or by going to The Watford Treasury.COME ON YOU ORNS