Tigers striving for success with new line-up

TORQUAY A grade coach Sonia Harris says her new-look team is establishing its identity as it aims to again reach the pointy end of the netball season.

The fifth-placed Tigers, who made last year’s BFNL preliminary final, take on sixth-ranked Portarlington away tomorrow (Saturday, May 3) at 1.45pm.

Torquay is certainly playing a bit differently to what it has previously, according to Harris.

“We lost three key players from last year, one in each court section. so it’s been quite a job to replace them,” she said.

Goal attack Rhi Moresi, defender Tess Willet and midcourter Lauren Berridge were among the departures but Harris feels the Tigers have recruited well to cover the losses.

Former Barwon Heads coach Kate Schippers, who has returned to the court after having her second baby, has been handy at goal attack with 48 conversions across the first four games.

She was named the Tigers’ best in their 10-goal Round 4 victory against Anglesea.

“She’s a really good option, especially with her height that she has in goal attack,” Harris said.

Prolific shooter Daisy O’Kane has also made a welcome return to the club after a season with Myrtleford in the Ovens and Murray league.

She only played in the third quarter against the Seas and put 20 goals through the net.

“She brings a lot of experience and confidence and she is a real calm steadier of the ship,” Harris said of the Geelong Cougars championship goaler.

Colac recruit Bridget Aughton, a defender and former Torquay captain and premiership player, has yet to hit the court due to having her appendix removed.

Harris said she and fellow defender Kat Fanning (calf) may return this weekend or for the next round.