We pick out five of the best Hollywoodbets Sharks players in their 66-12 defeat against Bordeaux-Begles in round four of the European Rugby Champions Cup at the Stade Chaban-Delmas on Sunday.
Ethan Hooker
Hooker stood tall once more for the Hollywoodbets Sharks after making another switch from centre to the wing. The youngster used his raw power to shrug off a number of defenders in the game, while he also produced a great steal off the deck towards the end of the first half. He finished the game with 56 carry metres with seven carries across the gainline.
The more I watch Ethan Hooker play the more I like him for Test rugby. Dynamic, big in contact, clever + calm w ball in space. Knows where he is; who he is. pic.twitter.com/KQsB3QBMdn
— Harry Jones (@haribaldijones) January 19, 2025
Grant Williams
The World Cup winner was in fine touch after missing the game against Toulouse, forming a good partnership with Masuku and executing some well-taken box kicks in the first half. Williams even impacted the game when he was moved out to the wing, sprinting down the touchline on the few occasions the Sharks managed to get their hands on the ball late on.
Jurenzo Julius
Julius remains an ever-present threat for opposition defences, with an uncanny ability to break open the defensive line or put teammates through with his fantastic offloading game. After exploding onto the scene against Toulouse off the bench in round three, he was just as effervescent in a starting jersey this week.
Siya Masuku
In a rare start at no 10, Masuku enjoyed a solid outing, particularly in the first half, switching up play well with his characteristic box of tricks. His up-and-unders were on point more often than not, while his option-taking was also good for the most part. As good a player as Jordan Hendrikse is, it’s a pity we don’t get to see more of Masuku in the black and white jersey.
Phepsi Buthelezi
Phepsi tried his heart out and enjoyed some great moments early on when the Sharsk were still on the offensive. The loose forward’s work rate is highly underrated, and he came up with a few nice plays for the Durbanites on an afternoon utterly dominated by the hosts.
