What we say
The loss of Head Coach Tracey Neville will be a big one for this ambitious franchise as they look to kick on from a poor season last time round. Lisa Stanley replaces Tracey after the latter returned to the North West during the summer. Sam Holt and North East favourite Vicky Burgess will be assisted by the return of Namibian shooter Toetse Kambatuku and a new overseas star. They have a big fight on their hands as they lack the big names that other squads possess. If they start the season strongly, anything is possible; if they lose heavily in the opening round, you would start to worry for the plucky Northumbrians.
What they say
Head Coach Lisa Stanley: “We are facing a transitional season following a strong finish to the 2011 campaign. But there will be a continued commitment to developing homegrown talent following the breakthrough of a number of young English players last season. Sam was injured for the whole of last season so it’s great to have her finally fit for selection. And Vicky is a real asset on and off the court. We’ve lost some experience following the departure of Natalie Connor and Tess Burton. But if we can seal deals for our top targets I’m confident we’ll be competitive.”