The Roar Rugby Podcast · The Roar Sports

Ep.142 - Ex-Wallabies skipper Ben Mowen joins, Brumbies atop Super standings, Ardie magic

·57 min·5 clips

Ben Mowen reveals how the Brumbies' defensive system overhaul and player ownership are driving their success.

This episode of The Roar Rugby Podcast features hosts Christy Doran and Matt To'omua alongside guest Ben Mowen, a former Wallabies captain and current Brumbies assistant coach. They analyze the Super Rugby season's climax and discuss the upcoming British & Irish Lions tour. The hosts debate whether the Brumbies can win their first title since 2004, given their current top standing and a timely bye week. They dissect the Brumbies' recent 24-14 victory over the Queensland Reds, highlighting how defensive breakdown pressure neutralized the Reds' attack. Specific players praised include Brumbies prop Allan Alaalatoa, lock Rob Valetini, and flanker Tom Hooper for their physical performances. The Reds' decision to forgo a penalty goal in the 26th minute is cited as a critical tactical error in a low-scoring game. The panel notes Ardie Savea has already been named Super Rugby Player of the Year, a decision they find premature before the finals. Ben Mowen explains how his second year with the Brumbies has focused on simplifying defensive and set-piece systems installed the previous season. He reveals the team's intense preseason set a high standard, allowing non-Wallaby squad members to earn starting spots early. Mowen details Tom Hooper's exceptional fitness, exemplified by a 4:45 Bronco test, and his improved lineout work ahead of his move to Exeter. On selection for the Lions series, Mowen and To'omua strongly advocate picking the best available Wallabies, even those departing for overseas clubs after the season. Mowen shares his personal 2013 decision to move abroad, driven by prior experiences with contract insecurity and a desire for family stability. He describes the overwhelming atmosphere of a Lions series, where fan presence is constant and stadium noise makes on-field communication impossible. A memorable anecdote involves actor Daniel Craig sharing a beer with players in the Lions dressing room after the decisive 2013 test. The tone is conversational and analytical, blending match breakdowns with broader strategic discussions and personal reflections. This episode is ideal for fans deeply invested in Super Rugby tactics, Brumbies fortunes, and Wallabies selection debates ahead of the Lions tour. Listeners seeking only light entertainment or news on other teams might find the focused discussion less engaging.

As heard by us

A loose, funny rugby chat with real selection and form debate.

The piece keeps a loose rugby-chat rhythm, but the real focus is clear: selection, Super Rugby form, and the case for backing the strongest players when the pressure tightens.

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Why you'd press play

Want sharp Super Rugby chat with a few laughs and real selection stakes?

Read the full recommendation in PlayNext →

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