looked into this myself for my JP, 100% never fitted, yes factory hole 

Thanks Skywalker

The last three JPs I've restored all had a post on the RHS lane, but not the left. Could be coincidence, as the operators would effectively make the game harder by removing it. But why just one side ?

Thanks Nino I thought the one on the outside lane I am missing may have been removed to open up the gap and make things a little harder but my concern was the ball constantly hitting the plastic and possibly damaging it especially now as the machine is getting on in age. As for the other hole above the bumper I really don't see how it makes it much harder and all it does is piss me off cause it looks like something should be there LOL.