Australia flanker Ben Mowen has no doubts that teammate Kurtley Beale will bounce back against the British and Irish Lions at the weekend following his late flop against them in the opening Test.
Having spent two weeks last month in rehab, the 24-year-old put in a strong display on Saturday, but will be remembered for twice missing a late penalty that would have won the Wallabies the match rather than slipping to a 23-21 defeat in Brisbane.
However, Mowen is confident that Beale will respond well and impress in the nation's must-win clash in the second Test.
"He was disappointed [after the game] but I think Kurtley is a very strong bloke and I think people probably don't give him enough credit for how mentally strong he is," said Mowen.
"The guys came around him very quickly and said 'mate, not to worry'. The fact of the matter is we had the chance to win with that kick because he kicked one earlier. He's bounced right back and he's been a big performer for us in the last couple of days at training."
The second Test takes place on Saturday, with the Lions currently leading the series 1-0.
Matt Cotton
