In this episode of By Far The Greatest Team football podcast, hosts Graham and Jamie embark on a riveting journey through the intriguing history of Total Network Solutions, now famously known as The New Saints. From humble beginnings in a Welsh village to European clashes with titans like Liverpool, the story of Total Network Solutions is one of perseverance, transformation, and the ever-evolving landscape of football.The hosts delve into the origins of the team, tracing its roots back to a small community in Wales before it caught the eye of businessman Mike Harris, who saw potential in the club and rebranded it as Total Network Solutions. With this new identity, the team embarked on a remarkable journey of dominance in the Welsh Premier League, clinching numerous titles and consistently asserting their supremacy in the domestic circuit.However, it wasn't just the domestic scene that Total Network Solutions sought to conquer. The team dared to challenge the giants of European football, facing off against formidable opponents such as Liverpool in continental competitions. Despite facing setbacks, their European campaigns showcased their determination and gradual improvement over the years.This episode explores the various transformations that Total Network Solutions underwent, including a significant name change to The New Saints and even a quirky attempt to sell their team name on eBay. The merger and move with English town Oswestry, shedding light on the challenges and complexities of club mergers in the footballing world.While The New Saints achieved unprecedented success on the pitch, they grappled with issues of attendance and revenue, highlighting the inherent struggles faced by clubs operating outside the elite echelons of football. Yet, amidst these challenges, the potential legacy of Total Network Solutions emerges as a symbol of the evolving relationship between football and corporate interests.As the episode concludes, Graham and Jamie ponder the future, envisioning a world where corporate behemoths like Amazon could reshape the footballing landscape by acquiring and rebranding clubs—a potential future that Total Network Solutions may have unwittingly foreshadowed.Join Graham and Jamie as they unravel the captivating saga of Total Network Solutions—a tale that transcends football and delves into the intricate interplay of passion, ambition, and corporate influence in the beautiful game.If you enjoy these podcasts, please don't forget to subscribe and give us a rating and also tell everyone about them!

Ask this episode

“What did the council decide on item 42?” — answered with the speaker and the moment.

Transcript

Related