Episode 18: Roses At The Curtain Call

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.

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00:00 Introduction and Welcome
00:34 Chloe's Match Highlights
02:00 Discussion on England's Dominance
02:30 Investment in Women's Rugby
07:29 Comparing International Rugby Programs
11:19 Challenges in Irish Women's Rugby
14:42 Analyzing the World Cup Final
20:40 Set Piece Dominance and Tactical Play
28:32 Kicking Game in Women's Rugby
33:42 Discussing Referee Decisions and TMO Challenges
34:22 Respect and Honesty in Rugby
36:16 Analyzing the Bronze Final: France vs. New Zealand
39:58 Growth and Future of Women's Rugby
48:06 Highlights and Lowlights of the Tournament
52:56 Lucky Dip!
57:14 Conclusion and Farewell