Hollywoodbets Head Coach John Plumtree admitted that the loss of Eben Etzebeth and Jason Jenkins is a big loss, but that Corne Raath and Emile van Heerden were more than capable of getting the job done.
Eben Etzebeth has been ruled out of the URC semifinal at Loftus due to a knock to his head, however, Plumtree confirmed that he will be available for the United Rugby Championship (URC) final if they beat the Bulls.
"He got a head knock at training, but he’s feeling a lot better already. We decided that it’s best not to risk him this week, so we made a pretty early call."
"He’s feeling a lot better by the way, he’s been communicating with me and the team, and I’m not overly concerned about it. I’m pretty sure that if we go through, he’ll be available next week."
"Eben’s probably the best lock in the world, so it’s a big loss, but the thing is, it’s a team game. One person doesn’t make this team, and we’ve won games without him this year."
"Jason is a big loss for us, too. He played a pivotal role for us, with Eben being out for so much. He’s played at four, and he’s played at five. It’s really disappointing not to see him in the Springbok squad at the moment as well. I think he deserves to be there."
"Obviously, Corne is a different player to Emile, in so many ways. Corne’s more abrasive, and Emile’s the ball winner, and a smart player and a good developer in his leadership as well. We’ve got full backing of the boys, and the boys are really pleased they’ve got this opportunity."