The news of Ben Lewis’ release from hospital this week has come as a relief to Ospreys head coach Sean Holley.
The 24-year-old flanker was admitted to Morriston Hospital after injuring his neck in last Friday’s win over Aironi at the Liberty Stadium, but has since been discharged.
Doctors in Swansea have confirmed there is no lasting damage, much to the relief of Holley and everyone at the Ospreys.
“Ben’s in a bit of pain and obviously we were a bit worried about him. But he seems to have been given a bit more of the all-clear so it’s good news,” said Holley.
“It looked really frightening at the time and I know he was frightened but… there are no breaks just some bruising and ligament damage. Hopefully he’ll be back a lot sooner than we first thought.
“I feel really sorry for him he’s worked really hard and is a great lad. To get back and be selected for our first team was fantastic. For that to happen was gut-wrenching. But the news is positive and we should see Ben back in training in seven or eight weeks.
“It’s the nature of the game now – we’re used to having a long-term injured list. Touch-wood, at the moment the majority of the squad is in reasonable health.”
As for the performance in the 38-6 win over Aironi, Holley admitted the reigning Magners League Champions still have plenty to work on ahead of Saturday’s derby clash with the Scarlets.
“It was a good result but perhaps the performance wasn’t quite there,” added Holley.
“We had 70-80 per cent of possession and territory and, although we had five tries, we’re a bit disappointed we didn’t score more.
“But perhaps it was a good thing because the players realise there is stuff to work on.”
