MudderRucker

The Rugby World Cup 2025 reaches its finale, and England’s Red Roses stand tall as champions on home soil. Canada threw everything at them but couldn’t crack a side built on set-piece power, defensive grit, and the depth to finish games out. Ailbhe and Cian are joined by Fiona Hayes and Chloe Pearse to break down the World Cup Final and Bronze match. From Botterman’s turnovers and Bern’s scrum impact to Ellie Kildunne’s brilliance, they explore how England pulled away when it mattered. There’s reflection on what Canada got right and why it wasn’t enough, how France and New Zealand served up chaos rugby in the bronze final, and the way refereeing, TMO use, and “once bitten, twice shy” moments shaped the tournament. The conversation also takes in the wider picture: record-breaking attendances, growing TV audiences, the investment question, and what Ireland can take forward into the next four-year cycle. It’s the last episode of Season 2 — a curtain call not just for the Roses, but for an unforgettable World Cup. 📸 Instagram → @mudderruckerpodcast 🟦 Bluesky → @mudderrucker.bsky.social 🎙️ Ailbhe → @irishwomens.bsky.social 📚 Cian → @rugbykino.bsky.social ▶️ YouTube → youtube.com/@MudderRucker

Semi-final weekend delivered drama and a BIG exit — the Black Ferns are out, and Canada are into the Rugby World Cup final. Sophie de Goede led from the front in a masterclass of control and decision-making, while New Zealand couldn’t find answers in the set piece or at the breakdown. Joining Ailbhe and Cian are Chloe Pearse and Ruth Campbell to break down how Canada took apart the reigning champions, what went wrong for the French against England, and what it all means for Sunday’s final. Along the way, we talk crowdfunding myths, purple patches, turnover battles, and the difference between chaos and cohesion. We also hear Ruth’s reflections on life in the Ireland camp, using her platform for causes off the pitch, and why her dad’s purple bucket hat (and more) made it onto the broadcast. 📸 Instagram → @mudderruckerpodcast 🟦 Bluesky → @mudderrucker.bsky.social 🎙️ Ailbhe → @irishwomens.bsky.social 📚 Cian → @rugbykino.bsky.social ▶️ YouTube → youtube.com/@MudderRucker 00:00 Introduction and Semi-Finals Recap 00:36 Special Guests: Chloe Pierce and Ruth Campbell 01:40 Ruth Campbell's Advocacy for Palestine 04:55 Transition Back to Rugby 08:39 Canada's Strategic Masterclass Against the Black Ferns 10:56 Analyzing Canada's Dominance and New Zealand's Struggles 20:56 Sophie de Goede: Canada's Star Player 22:33 New Zealand's Missed Opportunities 26:28 Preview of England vs. France 27:01 France's Missed Opportunities 27:56 England's Key Moments 28:42 Turnovers and Team Psyche 30:03 France's Questionable Kicking Game 31:56 Leadership and Decision Making 37:58 World Player of the Year Nominees 41:59 Lucky Dip Fun 47:00 The End

Ireland’s World Cup run ends at the quarter-final stage against France, but not without controversy. The infamous “bite” incident grabs headlines, but the real story is Ireland’s performance across the pitch, the progress of this campaign, and what it means heading into the next four-year cycle. Ailbhe and Cian are joined by Ireland prop Christy Haney and Munster Player of the Year Chloe Pearse to reflect on the defeat, from Linda Djougang’s relentless carrying to Ruth Campbell’s fearlessness in the tight exchanges. They dig into Ireland’s scrum and maul dominance, where the attack still needs to evolve, and how pathways and depth will shape the future. The episode also features Aoife Clarke, Communications Director with the IRFU, on the landmark announcement of Ireland v Scotland at the Aviva in 2026 — with ticket sales already breaking records and signalling a cultural shift in Irish rugby. 📸 Instagram → @mudderruckerpodcast 🟦 Bluesky → @mudderrucker.bsky.social 🎙️ Ailbhe → @irishwomens.bsky.social 📚 Cian → @rugbykino.bsky.social ▶️ YouTube → youtube.com/@MudderRucker 00:00 Introduction 00:25 Aoife Clarke's Journey with IRFU 01:09 Cultural Shift and Challenges 03:27 Social Media's Role in Women's Rugby 05:05 Upcoming Game and Ticket Sales 07:48 Reflecting on Past Matches and Future Goals 12:54 Quarterfinals Recap 14:49 Bite Gate Controversy 20:37 Game Analysis and Referee Critique 28:14 Player Performance Highlights 29:51 Scrum and Set Piece Analysis 31:55 Critical Moments and Player Mistakes 35:04 Future Prospects and Team Development 45:07 Upcoming Matches and Predictions 48:19 Retirements and Contract Controversies 53:16 Lucky Dip!

It finished 40–nil—but the noise told a different story. This week on MudderRucker, Ailbhe and Cian are joined by Chloe Pearse and Alice Soper to unpack Ireland’s bruising night against the Black Ferns in Brighton: the offloads, the width, the collision zone, and where Ireland’s shape came unstuck. We also zoom out to what actually mattered: the crowd, the feeling around the team, and why nights like this can still move the needle for the women’s game. Then it’s eyes forward—France next—and what a fuller deck might look like (hello, Aoife Wafer, Erin King, Dorothy Wall) when Ireland get bodies back and combinations bed in. Also featuring: offload clinic vs edge defence, Brighton buzz, and a clear-eyed look at what needs fixing before France. 📸 Instagram: @mudderruckerpodcast 🟦 Bluesky: @mudderrucker.bsky.social | Ailbhe @irishwomens.bsky.social | Cian @rugbykino.bsky.social ▶️ YouTube: youtube.com/@MudderRucker 00:00 Introduction to Mother Rucker Podcast 00:20 World Cup Pool Stage Recap 00:35 Introducing Chloe Pierce 00:39 Weekend Rugby Reflections 01:15 Special Guest: Alice Soper 02:46 Alice Soper's Rugby Journey 06:05 Challenges in Women's Rugby 06:58 Professionalism in Women's Rugby 12:47 New Zealand Rugby Club Scene 17:21 Future of New Zealand Women's Rugby 25:47 Weekend Match Results 26:52 Community in Women's Rugby 31:26 Reflecting on the Evolution of Rugby Culture 32:30 Challenges of Growing Women's Rugby 34:51 The Importance of Women Leading Women's Rugby 36:05 The Essence of Rugby: Fun and Entertainment 37:04 Analyzing the Irish Game Performance 40:17 Tactical Insights and Player Performances 48:28 Looking Ahead to the Quarterfinals 53:06 Lucky Dip! 57:32 Conclusion and Farewell

Ireland may be two from two with Eve Higgins at the heart of the action, but there’s a gravitational pull towards a Black Ferns vortex of danger. In this week’s MudderRucker, Ailbhe and Cian are joined by Chloe Pearse and Christy Haney to dissect the five-try win over Spain that somehow still felt nervy. We break down scrum dominance, shaky set-piece calls, and defensive breakdowns — plus the all-important tempo stat that’s turning out to be the only one that matters this World Cup. Christy brings serious prop insight (and no patience for bad calls), Chloe unpacks the pressure of defending with width, and we preview the clash with the Black Ferns at a sold-out Amex. Also featuring: line-speed mysteries, midfield mayhem, and the growing mystery of Ireland’s missing jackal threat. 📱 Follow us on Instagram: @mudderruckerpodcast 🌐 Bluesky: @mudderrucker.bsky.social Ailbhe: @irishwomens.bsky.social Cian: @rugbykino.bsky.social ▶️ More episodes & highlights: youtube.com/@MudderRucker Like, subscribe, and tell us which moment made you shout at the screen. 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 00:26 Chloe Pearse's Championship Win and Boat Adventure 01:45 Christy's Journey to Irish Rugby 03:41 Structural Engineering and Rugby: A Unique Connection 04:54 World Cup Hamstring Injury and Team Support 06:23 Round Two of the World Cup: France vs. Brazil 12:05 South Africa's Upset Against Italy 18:51 Ireland's Performance and Defensive Struggles 23:18 The Importance of Linda in the Squad 24:24 Analyzing the Game Against Spain 25:40 Controversial Moments in the Match 29:50 Standout Players and Performances 33:41 Injury Concerns and Future Matches 39:33 Fun and Games: Lucky Dip Questions 42:51 Wrapping Up and Looking Ahead

Ireland opened their Rugby World Cup campaign with a tempo-heavy win over Japan — and on this week’s MudderRucker, Ailbhe and Cian are joined by Chloe Pearse and Alycia Washington to break it all down. We’re talking lightning quick ball, dominant breakdowns, standout performances (yes, Brittany Hogan, we see you), and why lighting quick ruck speed is starting to look like a serious stat. Plus, we check in on the rest of the first round results, preview the upcoming clash with Spain, and ask: are Ireland building something serious here? Also featuring: midfield excellence, controlled chaos, set-piece shoutouts, and Alycia’s forensic breakdowns (with added sass). 📱 Follow us on Instagram: @mudderruckerpodcast 🌐 Bluesky: @mudderrucker.bsky.social Ailbhe: @irishwomens.bsky.social Cian: @rugbykino.bsky.social ▶️ More episodes & chaos: youtube.com/@MudderRucker Like, comment, and subscribe for more World Cup takes, tactical digs, and complete nonsense. 00:00 Introduction and Weekend Rugby Recap 00:37 Special Guests: Chloe Pierce and Alycia Washington 01:54 The XV Foundation: Supporting Women's Rugby 03:47 Rugby World Cup Controversy: Ireland vs. New Zealand 09:26 Round One Results: New Zealand, France, and Australia 17:09 Scotland vs. Wales: A Frustrating Match 21:56 USA's World Cup Campaign and Future Prospects 27:02 Ireland's High Tempo Start Against Japan 28:47 Line Out Challenges and Fixes 34:38 Player Performances and Highlights 40:08 Ruck Speed and Game Dynamics 49:56 Upcoming Matches and Predictions 51:26 Lucky Dip and Closing Remarks

Welcome to Episode 12 of Mudder Rucker, your go-to podcast for Irish women's rugby! Join hosts Ailbhe O'Nolan and Cian Ó Muilleoir as they discuss the World Cup warm-up games against Scotland and Canada, and dive into the first round of the Interpros. Special guests Chloe Pearse and Nikki Caughey share their unique insights and personal rugby journeys. Don't miss out on their discussion about squad announcements, intense rivalries, and the challenges of transitioning from club to international rugby. Get ready for an episode packed with game analysis, personal stories, and the ever-entertaining Lucky Dip. ▶️ Watch full episodes on YouTube: / @mudderrucker 📱 Follow us on Instagram: @mudderruckerpodcast 🌐 Bluesky: @mudderrucker.bsky.social | Ailbhe @irishwomens.bsky.social | Cian @rugbykino.bsky.social Like, share, subscribe—and tell us how you'd nail that jersey issue. 00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview 00:28 Meet the Guests: Chloe Pearse and Nikki Caughey 00:59 Nikki Caughey's Rugby Journey 03:10 First Cap Songs and Rugby Memories 05:33 Rivalries in Women's Rugby 12:09 Young Talent and Future Stars 20:13 Munster vs Leinster: Upcoming Match 20:56 Reflecting on a Rugby Career 22:42 Ireland's World Cup Preparations 33:13 Injuries and Team Depth Challenges 33:34 Linda's Impactful Performance 34:54 Analyzing the Canada Game 36:44 Defensive Strategies and Adjustments 42:07 World Cup Warm-Up Game Strategies 45:47 Squad Selection Surprises 46:07 Backs and Utility Players Discussion 52:48 Forwards and Uncapped Players 56:22 Back Row Depth and Challenges 01:01:11 Lucky Dip Questions 01:05:15 Conclusion and Farewell

Two new skippers, one microphone, and plenty of interpro spice. This week on MudderRucker, Maeve Óg O’Leary (Munster) and Molly Boyne (Leinster) join Ailbhe for a chat about what it really feels like to pull on the provincial jersey with a “C” beside your name for the first time. From learning how to lead your mates (and not just boss them), to why jersey shopping is a surprisingly risky business, to the pressure of legacy and big-game nerves, the captains spill on everything it takes to steer a team through the chaos of interpros. Expect talk of early camp dramas, dodgy motivational playlists, and the moments that made them laugh, cry, or nearly throw a lineout ball at someone’s head. It’s leadership, friendships, and a whole lot of laughs from two of the rising voices in Irish rugby. ▶️ Watch full episodes on YouTube: youtube.com/@MudderRucker 📱 Follow us on Instagram: @mudderruckerpodcast 🌐 Bluesky: @mudderrucker.bsky.social | Ailbhe @irishwomens.bsky.social | Cian @rugbykino.bsky.social Like, share, subscribe—and tell us which captaincy confession made you grin the most. 00:00 Welcome and Introduction 00:28 Meet the Captains: Maeve Óg O'Leary and Molly Boyne 01:16 Interpros Series: Rivalries and Stakes 04:47 The Emotional Connection to Provincial Jerseys 13:33 New Faces and Rising Stars 22:10 Leadership and Team Dynamics 29:25 Personal Insights: Life Beyond Rugby 33:17 The Story Behind My Name 35:03 Family Sports Allegiances 37:58 World Cup Warmup Games Preview 40:03 Squad Depth and Injuries 50:56 Exciting Players to Watch 56:05 Lucky Dip 59:34 Wrap Up

Eve Higgins and Aoife Dalton take centre stage in this episode, swapping stories from the frontline of Irish rugby’s midfield battleground. From debut nerves and sevens circus tales to the art of reading a game and mastering defence, they pull back the curtain on what it takes to hold the line. Hear about team rituals that glue the squad together, camp quirks (including rave music that won’t quit), and the green wave mantra powering the squad’s rise. Plus, a quiz with chaotic truths and laughs guaranteed. Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mudderruckerpodcast Bluesky: @mudderrucker.bsky.social | Ailbhe @irishwomens.bsky.social | Cian @rugbykino.bsky.social Like, share, subscribe—and tell us which moment had you smiling the widest.

Pre-season camp is in full swing and Jane Clohessy plus Niamh “Noddy” O’Dowd drop by to swap fresh-camp anecdotes and rewind to their very different Six Nations first-cap memories. Hear how a routine lash-lift turned into a selection cliff-hanger, why laser-tag suddenly broke out at team dinner, and what not to wear to a coach’s one-to-one. On the rugby side they dig into camp training loads, the early homework on Pool-C foes Japan, Spain and New Zealand, and which players are driving standards. Add the famous Lucky Dip, a not so quick-fire quiz, and a dash of accent chaos, and you’ve got the perfect pre-season tonic. Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mudderruckerpodcast Bluesky: @mudderrucker.bsky.social | Ailbhe @irishwomens.bsky.social | Cian @rugbykino.bsky.social Like, share, subscribe—and tell us which story made you snort-laugh.

On June 1st in Oslo, a team of trans women will face a team of cis elite players from the women's game in a sevens rugby match called Ruck You—a powerful act of protest, inclusion, and solidarity through sport. This week on MudderRucker, we bring you a special episode dedicated to the voices behind that game, and the policy that made it necessary. We speak with former USA international Alycia Washington, former Irish rugby international Ilse van Staden, leading exercise scientist Dr. Joanna Harper, and former East London RFC player Alix Fitzgerald. Together, they unpack the real-world impact of World Rugby’s trans ban, challenge the myths surrounding safety and fairness, and reflect on the importance of empathy, evidence, and actual player voices in policy-making. This episode isn’t about debate—it’s about lived experience, scientific rigour, and standing with our teammates. 📌 Learn more and support the match: 📷 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_ruckyou_match/ 💸 Fundraiser: https://www.gofundme.com/f/ruck-you-match-team-support Follow Ailbhe at @irishwomens.bsky.social and Cian at @rugbykino.bsky.social. Like, share, subscribe—and stand with those pushing for a game that lives up to its values.

This week on MudderRucker, it’s the end of the Six Nations—and the end of our first series! Chloe Pearse and Katie O’Dwyer are back to help us unpack Ireland’s bruising, frustrating, and oddly hopeful finale against Scotland at The Hive. We talk injuries, inexperience, and intercepts, plus how the squad responded when under pressure when leaders were lost from the field. We also look at the big Six Nations takeaways, from breakdown dominance and lineout leaps to why Ireland’s attack is sharper—but still has room to grow. There’s plenty of praise for Brittany Hogan, calls for Neve Jones in the back row, and some spicy chat about the refereeing across the tournament. Plus, we look ahead to the Rugby World Cup: who's in, who’s out, and what Ireland need to do to go deep in September. Throw in some goal-kicking gripes, a few jokes at each other’s expense, and a genuinely horrible team fragrance, and you’ve got a proper send-off to Series 1. Follow Ailbhe at @irishwomens.bsky.social and Cian at @rugbykino.bsky.social. Like, share, subscribe—and get yourself ready for World Cup warm-ups. We’ll see you soon.

This week on MudderRucker, we’re bringing you a special bonus episode ahead of the AIL Women’s Final at the Aviva! Ailbhe sits down with Railway Union captain Niamh Byrne and UL Bohemian head coach Fiona Hayes for an in-depth look at what makes this fixture—and this rivalry—so special. From Rocky-themed team talks to Atomic Kitten singalongs, we dive into the sisterhood, scrap, and sheer joy that fuels the women’s club game. We hear from up-and-comers like Aoife Corey and Molly Boyne, plus reflections from legends like Lindsay Peat and Ailsa Hughes on what it means to play—and win—on the biggest stage in Irish rugby. Whether you’re Railway or a proud Robin, or just rugby-mad, this one’s for you. It’s all heart, hustle, and a whole lot of craic. On Bluesky, you can find Ailbhe at @irishwomens.bsky.social and Cian at @rugbykino.bsky.social. Like, share, subscribe—and don’t forget to shout for your side this Sunday. Let’s fill the Aviva! TICKET LINK: https://www.ticketmaster.ie/energia-ail-finals-day-dublin-27-04-2025/event/18006288BDFC33CD

This week on MudderRucker, we welcome tighthead legend Katie O'Dwyer alongside the ever-brilliant Chloe Pearse to break down Round 4 of the Women’s Six Nations. Italy pushed France all the way, England cruised past Scotland, and Ireland turned in a dominant performance against Wales—but was it dominant enough? We unpack Ireland's clinical-but-could’ve-been-clinicaler win in Newport, assess the depth being built ahead of the World Cup, and discuss standout showings from the likes of Linda Djougang, Molly Scuffil-McCabe, and the unstoppable Aoife Dalton. We also talk set piece trends, scrum-half battles, and the big loss of Erin King to injury. Plus: tighthead woes, fairylike geniuses, rogue referees, and the eternal struggle with chafing. It’s honest, sharp, and seriously good craic. Catch Ailbhe and Cian with the Irish rugby insights you won’t hear anywhere else. On Bluesky, follow Ailbhe at @irishwomens.bsky.social and Cian at @rugbykino.bsky.social. Like, share, subscribe—and light a Yankee Candle for King—wherever you get your podcasts!

This week on MudderRucker, we’re joined by Irish rugby legends Chloe Pearse and Ilse van Staden to unpack a huge weekend of Women’s Six Nations action. From Ireland’s gutsy, galvanising 50-minute stand against England, to France’s chaos-ball against Wales and Italy’s bounce-back win over Scotland, there’s loads to dive into. We talk player development, set-piece struggles, the growing IQ and grit of this Irish team, and how a relentless defensive mindset is putting belief back at the heart of the squad. Plus, we get into the future of the AIL, club rivalries, fullback nightmares, and what Melissa McCarthy has to do with Chloe’s rugby journey. It’s honest, passionate, and—at times—hilarious. Join Ailbhe and Cian for another episode of MudderRucker that every Irish rugby fan needs to hear. On Bluesky, you can find Ailbhe at @irishwomens.bsky.social and Cian at @rugbykino.bsky.social. Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe—wherever you get your podcasts!

This week on MudderRucker, we're thrilled to welcome back rugby savant Chloe Pearse for another cracking episode! Join us as we break down Ireland's outstanding performance against Italy, highlighting incredible defensive efforts, explosive attacking plays, and the depth now evident throughout the squad. Chloe shares insider insights on standout players, tactical changes, and discusses Ireland's mindset heading into the massive clash with England at Musgrave Park. We also dive into controversies on the pitch, particularly that baffling TMO decision, and explore how Ireland can continue their upward trajectory in the Six Nations. Tune in as Ailbhe, Cian, and Chloe provide a passionate, insightful, and thoroughly entertaining analysis for every rugby fan. On Bluesky, follow Ailbhe at @irishwomens.bsky.social and Cian at @rugbykino.bsky.social. Be sure to like, share, subscribe, and tell us your thoughts—wherever you get your podcasts!

This week on MudderRucker, we’re joined by not one but two Irish rugby legends—Chloe Pearse and Ilse van Staden! We get the inside scoop on life in camp, the highs and lows of the Six Nations opener against France, and how the squad is bouncing back ahead of the clash with Italy. Plus, we dig into leadership styles, team dynamics, and some unexpected insights into life off the pitch. Join Ailbhe and Cian for an honest, insightful, and occasionally hilarious chat that every Irish rugby fan will love. On Bluesky, you can find Ailbhe at @irishwomens.bsky.social and Cian at @rugbykino.bsky.social. Drop by and tell us what you think, and don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe—wherever you get your podcasts!

We talk with the inimitable Chloe Pearse and get some insights into life within the Irish camp, her rugby journey, and her thoughts on Ireland's prospects heading into the massive tournament opener against France. On Bluesky you can find Ailbhe at @irishwomens.bsky.social, and Cian at @rugbykino.bsky.social. Drop by and tell is what you think, and don't forget to like, share, and subscribe, wherever you get your podcast!

Join hosts Ailbhe O’Nolan and Cian Ó Muilleoir as they bring you all the latest from Irish women’s rugby! From the Women’s Six Nations to key matches and big talking points, Mudder Rucker keeps it fun, accessible, and full of insight. No overcomplicated analysis—just straight-talking rugby chat and exclusive interviews with Irish rugby stars. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or new to the game, subscribe for new episodes every week!