Ep 8. Only the Brave

In the eighth season of the popular British television series, "New Tricks," episode eight is titled "Only the Brave." This episode showcases the aging and retired police officers of UCOS (Unsolved Crime and Open Case Squad) as they investigate a brutal murder that took place 18 years ago during a 1989 football match between two rival teams.

The case was initially investigated by DI Dave Cook, who was widely regarded as the best murder detective in London at the time, but he failed to solve the case and left the police force soon after. The UCOS team is optimistic about their chances of cracking the case wide open, as it is their area of expertise and they have a long history of solving similar cases.

The case revolves around a young Irishman named Liam Baxter, who was brutally beaten and left to die in the toilets of a football stadium during a match between two fierce rivals. Baxter was a member of a traveling group of football hooligans known as the "O'Connell Boys," who were notorious for their violent behavior and involvement in organized crime.

As the UCOS team digs deeper into the case, they discover that there were several suspects with motives to commit the murder. One of the suspects was a member of a rival football gang, another was involved in a shady business deal with Baxter, and the third was a member of the O'Connell Boys who had a personal vendetta against Baxter.

The episode beautifully encapsulates the process of police investigation, as the UCOS team uses their unconventional techniques to navigate through the various suspects and gather evidence. Their experience and intuition come to light as they put together the pieces of the puzzle and narrow down the list of suspects.

The show also touches on broader social themes, such as racism, xenophobia, and police corruption. The episode highlights the difficulties faced by the Irish community in London during the late 1980s and early 1990s and how it was perceived as a hotbed for organized crime and hooliganism.

The show's characters are also an essential aspect of the episode, as they bring their unique personalities and quirks to the table. Gerry, the curmudgeonly former detective sergeant, is as always the team's lovable rogue. His quick wit and street smarts come in handy during the investigation. Brian and Jack, the more senior members of the group, are steadfast and dependable, offering valuable insights and support to the investigation. Sasha, the youthful and clever detective, brings a fresh perspective to the team, often challenging conventional thinking and proposing innovative solutions.

The episode's title, "Only the Brave," is significant as it encompasses the courage required to confront difficult truths and to admit mistakes. The UCOS team faces these challenges head-on and shows their bravery in the face of difficult and complex cases. The episode is both a tribute to the UCOS team's resilience and a gripping narrative that will keep viewers hooked until the end.

New Tricks' "Only the Brave" deftly blends both a riveting murder mystery with social commentary and incisive character work. The episode showcases the show's polished writing and outstanding performances. Fans of the show will be pleased with another excellent installment, and newcomers will get a sense of what has made New Tricks such a fan favorite over the years.