What we say
Tracey Neville makes the switch over the Pennines to take control at Thunder and she will be looking to provide the fans with more reasons to cheer after a terrific 2011 season. Injuries really decimated the Manchester based outfit before the play-offs and they will be hoping the return of Sara Bayman will counter the loss of Captain Jade Clarke, who heads to the ANZ. A little light in the attacking circle, a lot will depend on Karen Greig following her return from injury as Thunder look to her to help keep them amongst the top teams.
What they say
Head Coach Tracey Neville: “It is really exciting to be at a new franchise and we are aware the first phase will be really tough. It’s very interesting with all the movement of players to the ANZ and between franchises this season. Jade Clarke is a massive loss. She is England captain and would be a loss to anybody. We have Sara Bayman and Karen Greig working hard and they are key players but we have options. We can’t look long term - after the massive disappointment of losing in the play-offs last season, the short term goal is to make the top four and then to make the Grand Final.”
VISIT THE NORTHERN THUNDER WEBSITE