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.
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1:01:58
Episode 6: A Cure For What AILs You: Bonus Episode
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
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37:07
Episode 5: Easter (Rodney) Parade
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!
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Episode 4: Jurassic Parked the Bus
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!
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Episode 3: Instant Parma
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!
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, MudderRucker 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!
Ireland