Talented teen duo to take on Shark star
CAIRNS Netball Association club Leprechauns are pinning their finals hopes on a pair of talented teenagers.
Young shooters Chantelle Tikitau and Grace Ratima, both just 16 years of age, will be called upon to tackle Marlin Coast Marlins star defender Heidi Wilson, who plays with local club Sharks, tonight.
Leprechauns, CTB Bulldogs and South Cairns Cutters are fighting it out for the last two spots in the finals with just three home and away rounds to play.
Leprechauns coach Kym Mcphee-Smith is optimistic the young pair can step up their games against the experienced Wilson, who played in the ANL for the Queensland Fusion and Western Sting and was an Australian Institute of Sport scholarship holder.
“They have not had much of a chance to train or play together this season as Chantelle was away representing the Cook Islands at the World Cup,” Mcphee-Smith said.
“It is exciting that they will finally get the opportunity to play together after a few solid training sessions.
“They ooze confidence as talented young girls but they do lack experience.
“They will need to learn to be more mentally tough against the older players.”
Sharks, who are all but assured a top-two finish, will tackle Leprechauns from 7.45pm today.
In the other Week 12 game tonight, Bulldogs and Cutters will be playing for their finals lives while Cairns Saints have the bye.