Full Credit

Les Elder and Alice Soper unpack the Black Ferns’ performance against France, looking at what clicked, where there’s still room for improvement, and the players who stood out. They discuss Arene Landon-Lane’s call-up and the ongoing run of injuries affecting Black Fern captains, before turning their attention to the Farah Palmer Cup. There’s plenty to like about the young talent coming through, but also a look at the challenge facing players who have to pull teams together across wide areas of the country. With Scotland next on the agenda, Les and Alice look at what the Black Ferns can learn from the match and the tweaks that may be needed as they build towards a major test against England Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Black Ferns and Springbok Women go head to head! Les Elder and Alice Soper take a closer look at rugby’s newest rivalry and the wider context surrounding it. While the game itself may not have delivered the spectacle they were hoping for, the conversation goes far beyond the scoreline. Les and Alice reflect on the evolution of the women’s game, the expectation for teams to keep pushing the boundaries, and the moments that can turn a match into something unforgettable. They also discuss the difficult off-field circumstances surrounding the South African women’s team, including the impact of coaching upheaval and the way these issues can overshadow the achievements of the players. Against that backdrop, they celebrate the resilience of a team that continues to perform in the face of significant adversity, while remembering former captain Lusanda Dumke and the mark she left on the team. The episode also delivers some key rugby lessons, from managing relationships with referees and adapting tactics, to understanding the laws around scrummaging and offside play. Ultimately, this is a conversation about why women’s rugby deserves to be understood in its full context — not just through results, but through the people, challenges and stories behind the game. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It’s a big week for women’s rugby, and there’s plenty for Alice Soper and Les Elder to get stuck into. Australia finally has a new coach, Fijiana have one too, and New Zealand Rugby is putting more into its women’s game — both on the coaching side and with the naming of the Black Ferns and Black Ferns XV squads. Alice and Les break down the selections, including the players who were unlucky to miss out, before looking at all the positives from a ten-try performance against the Wallaroos. Three debutants also made strong first impressions, adding to the feeling that there’s plenty to be excited about. But the work isn’t done yet. With more rugby still to come, the Black Ferns’ next challenge is South Africa. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on Full Credit, Alice gets Les and special guest Chelsea Semple (Black Fern #173) up to speed on the latest developments across the Tasman, including the ongoing coaching changes in Australian rugby and the appointment of a new director. Could it signal a fresh direction for the Wallaroos? The trio then dives into the 2026 Super Rugby Aupiki season, reflecting on the standout moments, biggest stories, and the players who made the biggest impact. They name an MVP from each Aupiki team before revealing their overall MVP of the season, discuss what made this campaign such a success, and share their wish lists for next year. To wrap things up, they put on their selectors' hats and each names their starting lineup for the August 22 Test between the Black Ferns and the Wallaroos. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Alice Soper and Les Elder say goodbye to the Hurricanes Poua and Chiefs Manawa, celebrating the standout moments, biggest performances, and lasting memories from their 2026 campaigns. Alice also shares what was undoubtedly the ultimate fan experience at the Poua match and why it made for such a special day. Attention then turns to the finalists, as the Blues finally found their rhythm at the perfect time to book their place in the championship decider. Standing in their way are Matatū, who will host what is set to be the biggest Super Rugby Aupiki final yet, with a record-breaking crowd expected in Christchurch. Can Matatū rediscover the form that made them the competition's benchmark? Or have the Blues timed their run to perfection and built the momentum needed to lift the trophy? To wrap things up, Alice and Les pick their in-form XV from the final round, recognising the players who stood out when it has mattered most. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Timaru delivered the match of the season as the Hurricanes Poua continued their fairytale run, claiming their third consecutive win – while ending Matatū's unbeaten campaign in a dramatic upset. Les Elder and Alice Soper break down the moments that defined a thrilling contest, from game-changing plays to the individual performances that swung momentum. Was this the performance that finally announced the Poua as genuine contenders? With just one round remaining, the finals picture couldn't be tighter. Three teams are still alive in the race for a place in the Super Rugby Aupiki final, and the permutations are deliciously complicated. The Blues are in control of their own destiny—but only if the Poua slip up. Meanwhile, despite still searching for their first win, Chiefs Manawa could have the final say on the season, with one result capable of deciding who books a place in the decider. To wrap things up, Les and Alice pick out the standout performers from the weekend as they assemble their latest In Form XV , highlighting the players making the biggest impact at exactly the right time. It's crunch time in Aupiki, and every moment matters. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Les honours their side of the bargain by belting out Alice's team song after losing their bet—but the real headline is the continued rise of the Poua. After knocking off the defending champion Blues for the first time since 2023, the Poua have firmly entered the championship conversation. Alice and Les unpack what made the performance so impressive, celebrate Wikitoria Viljeon's history-making hat-trick—the first by a Poua player—and ask whether this is the moment the competition's balance of power is beginning to shift. Meanwhile, the Blues are still searching for the spark that made them champions, while Manawa's inconsistent form continues, with more changes to their line up raising fresh questions. At the other end of the table, Matatū are making history of their own, starting 4-from-4 for the first time and looking every bit like the team everyone else has to chase. The pair discuss just how good the Poua really are, what the changing landscape of Super Rugby Aupiki means for the competition, and where each side goes from here. They wrap things up by naming their Team of the Week after another standout round. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Round 3 of Super Rugby Aupiki delivered landmark moments, and Alice Soper and Les Elder are here to break it all down. The spotlight was on Pukekohe, where both Round 3 matches produced plenty of talking points. The Poua ended a two-year wait for victory, claiming their first win since 2023 and making even more history by defeating Manawa for the first time ever. What changed, and what does it mean for the rest of their season? Meanwhile, Matatū continued to impress, making it three wins from three to record the best start to a season in the club's history. Are they the team to beat? And with the Blues still searching for consistency, where do last year's champions go from here? The episode also celebrates the incredible depth of women's rugby, with 36 debutants across the Poua and Manawa highlighting the next generation of talent coming through the ranks. With the competition at the halfway mark, Alice and Les dive into the key numbers from the season so far, exploring what the stats reveal about each team's strengths, weaknesses, and championship credentials. Plus, they name their Team of the Week, and after another week of rivalry, it's finally time to confirm the punishment Les has to face after losing to Alice's team. History, analysis, laughs, and a little bit of payback—it's all on this week's episode of Full Credit . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The second round of Super Rugby Aupiki provided a clearer picture of which teams are building momentum and which players are making their mark on the competition. Alice Soper and Les Elder break down how belief and self-confidence are becoming defining factors for teams finding success early in the season. The pair discuss the impact of debutants who stepped up under pressure, highlighting how opportunities at Aupiki level continue to accelerate growth across the women's game. They also analyse the tactical shifts coaches implemented from round one, including changes in attacking structures, defensive systems, and game management. Set pieces remain a major talking point, with lopsided improvements at lineout time proving the difference. The episode also shines a light on key individual performances that swung momentum, alongside a detailed review of the pivotal moments that defined each contest. From game-changing plays to critical turning points, they assess what ultimately separated the winners from the losers. Finally, with the competition table beginning to take shape, Alice and Les preview the highly anticipated top-of-the-table showdown that could have major implications for the race to the Super Rugby Aupiki title. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Alice Soper and Les Elder break down a memorable first weekend that featured a record-breaking crowd, passionate performances and plenty of evidence that the women's game continues to build momentum. From Christchurch's buzzing rugby atmosphere to the excitement surrounding the competition's return, there was plenty for fans to celebrate. On the field, the pair analyse the opening-round performances, looking at the physicality and intensity that defined the weekend, touching on some of the more controversial moments without losing sight of the bigger story: a competition continuing to grow in quality, confidence and support. They discuss the early trends emerging across the competition, which teams laid down a marker, and who has work to do heading into Round Two. With record crowds, bold performances and a season full of promise ahead, this episode is your essential review of Super Rugby Aupiki's exciting opening round. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Success at Matatū hasn’t come from shortcuts or quick fixes. Alice Soper and Les Elder dive into the culture, planning, and vision driving the southern franchise as it continues to build one of the strongest foundations in women’s rugby. From investing in local talent pathways to strengthening connections across every feeder province, Matatū has created an environment built on continuity, development, and opportunity. The squad and coaching group have remained steady, allowing emerging players to grow, rough talent to be refined, and future stars to take the next step toward greatness. The franchise is already producing Black Ferns, debutants, and even coaches making their mark at the highest level — proof that the system is working. Alice and Les discuss the leadership, recruitment, retention, and community focus helping shape the club’s identity, as well as the challenges that come with maintaining success in an increasingly competitive women’s game. With a new season approaching and expectations rising, the big question remains: can Matatū turn its blueprint into another Super Rugby Aupiki-winning campaign? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Alice Soper and Les Elder take a deep dive into the Poua's of the biggest squad shake-ups in Aupiki history. With only 11 players retained from last season and 19 players moving on, what does this level of churn actually mean for the franchise — and is it chaos, courage, or a necessary reset? Alice and Les break down the departures, the recruitment strategy, and why this season may ultimately be remembered as the moment the franchise stopped chasing short-term fixes and finally committed to building something sustainable. They also spotlight the next wave of talent emerging through New Zealand’s rugby pathways — from NZ U20s camps and U18 NZ Māori to the growing impact of Black Ferns XV programmes development. These aren’t just “players for the future” anymore; they’re ready to contribute now. The pair discuss the significance of attracting established names from outside the province, including Renee Holmes, Krystal Murray and Ona Palu, and what those signings say about the direction and ambition of the club. It won’t be an easy season, but there are green shoots everywhere if you know where to look. This episode is about transition, trust in development, and why meaningful change in women’s rugby requires bold decisions. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on Full Credit, Alice Soper and Les Elder take a deep dive into the state of Chiefs Manawa — the franchise that once set the standard in women’s rugby, but now finds itself navigating a difficult rebuild. With major squad turnover, declining results, and changes in the coaching setup, the conversation explores how quickly success can shift in a developing competition and what happens when a powerhouse loses the core group that built its identity. Alice and Les reflect on the legacy of the players and staff who created the foundation of Chiefs Manawa’s dominance, while also highlighting the next generation now being asked to carry the franchise forward. What can realistically be expected from a squad packed with rookies? How do you rebuild confidence, cohesion, and culture while still trying to compete at the highest level? The episode also looks at the wider lessons for Super Rugby Aupiki franchises: sustainability, player pathways, retention, and the challenge of staying on top in a rapidly evolving women’s game. A thoughtful conversation about leadership, legacy, and the realities of rebuilding in elite sport. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

With a new Super Rugby Aupiki season on the horizon, Alice Soper and Les Elder dive deep into the Blues’ campaign. Starting from the competition launch and early team announcements, the duo unpacks the full Blues squad. Analysing key player departures, the impact of fresh signings, and how shifting combinations could reshape the team’s identity. They explore the influence of Black Ferns within the lineup, the evolving coaching strategies behind the scenes, and the exciting emergence of young talent—especially in a dynamic and fast-rising backline. From proven leaders to breakout prospects, no stone is left unturned in assessing who could define the Blues’ season. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, Les Elder and Alice Soper wrap up an action-packed Pacific Four Series. The Black Ferns complete a clean sweep but not without leaving a few big questions on the table ahead of the end-of-year tour. What worked, what didn’t, and where are the gaps that need attention? The duo name their team of the week, highlighting standout performers across all nations, and take a look ahead at what’s next—breaking down upcoming fixtures and what Black Ferns jerseys are still up for grabs on the end of year tour. Before then lies the excitement of Super Rugby Aupiki. So while this international window closes, the domestic competition is kicking right off. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Black Ferns have surged back to World #2! Under Whitney Hansen, this team is starting to look seriously dangerous. Les Elder and Alice Soper unpack a commanding win over Canada that highlighted physicality, tempo and a little Mererangi magic. Kennedy Tukuafu led from the front in a standout performance, while all teams, officials and fans showed resilience and a lot of love through long weather delays. We dig into what’s changing under Hansen and why this could be the foundation of something special. Plus, a quick look at the USA Eagles’ momentum, Australia’s struggles, and our picks for Team of the Week. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Alice Soper and Les Elder unpack the opening round for Pacific Four and the impact of the wild weather at home and on the pitch. They celebrate key player milestones, assess the performances of debutants and dive into the Black Ferns’ highly anticipated return. They've fired up the spreadsheets as stat chat returns to help them name their team of the week. Before together, they identify the non-negotiables required for the Black Ferns to re-establish themselves as a dominant force in world rugby. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Women’s rugby is back for 2026 and so are Alice and Les! After a break, your favourite duo returns to dive headfirst into everything you’ve missed. From the biggest stories and off-field buzz to standout moments shaping the new season, they’ve got all the goss covered. They also break down the newly announced Black Ferns Pacific Four squad, sharing their thoughts, surprises, and players to watch. Plus, they wrap things up by answering your listener questions—nothing’s off the table! Whether you’ve been following closely or need a full catch-up, this episode is your perfect re-entry into the world of women’s rugby. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What's that under your tree? A bonus episode of Full Credit! Santa's helpers, Les and Alice, are back to sort the latest rugby headlines into ‘naughty or nice’. There's a new Black Ferns head coach, revamped high-performance calendar and smaller ball size to debate before we make our Christmas wish for women's rugby this year! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Rugby World Cup lit a fire under women’s rugby but where do we go from here? Alice and Les come together for one last time to unpack what’s fuelling the sport’s epic rise. From smart strategies and superstar coaches to media buzz and unforgettable player performances, we cover it all. We’re talking future plans for Aotearoa, the global impact, and why this movement is bigger than rugby. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.