Mowen hails Wallabies’ most complete performance

DUBLIN: Australia’s inspirational captain Ben Mowen said the Wallabies’ clinical 32-15 defeat of Ireland at Lansdowne Road on Saturday had been their most complete performance yet under coach Ewen McKenzie.

Mowen,whoturns29onDecember 1, said the foundations they had been laying since McKenzie was appointed, following the sacking of Robbie Deans after the series loss to the British and Irish Lions, were evident to see in both defence and offence.

The Wallabies beat the Irish consistently at the breakdown which they had identified as a crucial battleground and were rarely troubled in recording their first back-to-back successes this year.

This dominance allowed them the freedom and possession to score four tries – the Irish scored none – taking their tally to an impressive 22 in their last five Tests.

“This was our most complete performance yet,” said Mowen, who has enjoyed a meteoric year after only making his Test debut in the first game against the Lions.

“We were well-balanced in both attack and defence and it was our strength in the breakdown where we knew the Irish would be strong that laid the foundations for our tries.

“The spirit was right throughout the match. When you have three Wallabies fighting to win the same ball that shows the spirit and determination we have.

“It’s what we have been working for. We were working really hard but the results didn’t go for us but we stuck at it and then suddenly you pop out the other side and the results do go for you and that is really pleasing.

“We need to add to this next week against the Scots.” — AFP