Honeymoon over for untested Silver Ferns coach
It didn’t take long for the realities of the Silver Ferns’ top job to hit home for Janine Southby.
The New Zealand side head into today’s Quad Series opener — Southby’s first test as national coach — on the back of a poor build- up after injuries and illness conspired to disrupt the team’s already limited preparation.
Ferns management were forced to make a late change to their line- up for the clash against England with Steel defender Jane Watson called in as injury replacement for Anna Harrison.
The loss of the star defender is a massive blow, with Harrison in impressive form in the ANZ Championship. She carried that into national trials last week. The 33- year- old, who was preparing to make her first appearance in the black dress since the 2014 Commonwealth Games, had been tipped to be one of the players to watch for the series.
The addition of Watson, who was elevated to the test line- up despite in- get a grab on him and tackle him a few times and I was buzzing out on that.”
While the likes of fellow halves hopefuls Tui Lolohea and Mason Lino are well known to Warriors fans, coach Andrew McFadden has been patient in allowing the youngster to hone his game in the lower grades.
“He’s a very talented player and someone we’ve been keeping a very close eye on and making sure he develops nicely,” said McFadden. ““He’s got a big future so it’s certainly a good position for us to be in.”
The Pakuranga Jaguars junior has a reputation as a composed organiser but perhaps his most impressive attribute is his willingness to test the defensive line.
Having served his apprenticeship in the NYC competition and reserve grade, Hingano says he was prepared for the physicality and increased pace of first- grade football.
“Playing with the ( NSW) Cup squad, it’s pretty much the same level, playing with men,” he said.
“So when I’m playing down there I like to try things and really take the ball on and attack well.
“There will be times in the game when we’re under the pump and as a half you can’t rely on just organising, you’ve got to take the line on.”
Hingano is determined to prove he i s capable of filling the boots of departing five- eighth Thomas Leuluai next season.
“That’s all of the halves’ goal, but being in the position that I’m in now, I want to take it with both hands and get that starting spot.”