It’s action time as the EPCR Challenge Cup comes to its thrilling finale when the Hollywoodbets Sharks and Gloucester contest the final at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium tonight.
Hollywoodbets Sharks head coach John Plumtree has talked about the vibe in the camp and explains that keeping the pressure off is important, but acknowledges the role of the senior players to drive the team’s emotional state of readiness and the passion they bring to this historic occasion.
“We’ve kept things simple this week, I’m not a big fan of overloading the players with too much information before big games,” he explains.
We’ve identified a couple of areas where we can put them under pressure and where they will look to pressure us, that’s been the focus.
“All the plans have been put in place and now it’s all about excitement for the final. The players are getting into their own space and making sure they bring the intensity that’s required.”
While the mood in the camp is quietly confident, it’s the leadership that starts to make a bigger impact.
“Up until this point it’s been around how we want to play our game, and you can see how the experienced guys, guys who have been in this position many times before, are starting to shine. The leaders are taking over in the backend of the week and my voice goes quieter while theirs’ go louder.
“That’s what we want, we are encouraging our leaders how have been in this position before to take over and really drive the passion we’re going to need to win this final.
“The tactical approach to the game is important, but it’s how hard you hit a ruck, tackle or carry the ball and how long you can go for, that’s driven by some characters in the team.”
The role of the senior leadership cannot be understated and Plumtree expects them to be the match that lights the fire under the rest of their team-mates as they take on a game as big as they’ve ever played.
“I’m expecting it to be a very physical contest. It’s not a test match but for us as the Hollywoodbets Sharks, it is a test match. It’s exciting for everyone and means a lot to everyone, those who wear the Springbok jersey and those who don’t. I’m expecting to see my big players that I’ve got in this group really have massive games.”
For captain Eben Etzebeth, it’s a case of more of the same. The team has had a successful run in the tournament and nothing much needs to change.
“We know what we need to do and we haven’t brought any new stuff. Getting the basics right and having a good kicking game is the stuff that wins finals. It’s like a test match and we’re really excited.
“We haven’t had the best of seasons so it pretty much comes down to this game. We know we have a mountain ahead of us, but good things will come if we win this competition and become the first South African side to do it, as well as to play in the Champions Cup next year.
“There’s another team though and it will come down to who wants it more.”
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