Ratima backs Leps to triumph
CAPTAIN Leeahna Ratima believes Leprechauns have the squad to go all the way in the 2021 Cairns Netball season.
The Leps kicked off their new campaign with a 34-point victory over North Cairns Tigers at Martyn Street Sports Park on Wednesday night.
Ratima said there was plenty of belief and confidence among the squad heading into the match and the season ahead, however it was very much “one game at a time”.
“It was a really good performance from the girls and a good way to start the season,” she said.
“We just want to take it one game at a time and see how we go for our first game against each team, and then we’ll be able to know what to work on from there, because each team is different, then hopefully see ourselves at the top.”
Ratima said centre Emma Lardner and Northern Rays player Chantelle Tikitau were both strong against Tigers.
“It’s great to have Chantelle still able to play with us with her commitment to the Northern Rays,” she said.
The side has retained much of last year’s squad, while adding some firepower in the form of new recruit Amy Marie and returning Leprechauns junior Hannah Flint.
“Amy is a new face to the club and to the team,” she said.
“She mainly plays GS but can play GA as well.
“Hannah has always been a Leprechaun, so it’s good to have her back.
“She moved away for university and has come back to Cairns this year.”
Ratima said experienced defenders Kirsty Sou, Sara Leibel and youngster Grace Johnson were progressing as a unit.
“It’s been good that they’ve had a season under their belt together, so hopefully we’ll be able to keep working on that this season,” she said.
The Leps face a dangerous Sharks side in round two, with last year’s grand finalists coming off a 22-point win over new club Scorchers Blaze in Wednesday night’s opening round.