[al_ex]

#1317420

I would have taken Brandley over WA backup. Hay has been good at WA and Brandley is the only international level defender they have. I would have dropped Manu’a for Pitman, but Giants clearly rate her.

[NZChampion]

#1317421

Sad for Pitman. The contract window didn’t present well for her either. Mystics could possibly save her or Pulse. It wouldn’t really make sense for both teams, but she here’s hoping a miracle happens.

[Netballcrazy1]

#1317423

Unfortunately, even if Giants would consider dropping Manu’a or Poolman, they were both contracted into 2021. If they potentially want Brantley waiting in the wings when they drop one of them in 2022, then they probably felt the need to keep her around.

But agree, Pitman deserves a contract somewhere, even if it’s not in SSN. A shame that the Thunderbirds’ poor handling will probably cost her in the form of an early retirement.

[Maryann]

#1317424

NZ Champion – what do you mean about Mystics or Pulse could save her. They both have full squads. Mystics will be looking for a defender to replace MSB. Pulse doesn’t need a WA, they need a WD/GD.

• This reply was modified 3 years, 6 months ago by Maryann.

[Z1989]

#1317426

According to Jack berketa, a key international from the Tbirds is expected to miss next season. Details to come at 6 PM. Defence was the Thunderbirds’ strength, so now that they’ve lost Shimmin, and potentially either Guscoth or Sterling, it could be a huge loss and factor in their 2020 success.

[Z1989]

#1317427

Layla Guscoth is leaving the Tbirds. Confirmed on 9news

• This reply was modified 3 years, 6 months ago by Z1989.

[James]

#1317429

Thunderbirds probably regretting Shimmin decision now. I don’t think Garrett and Sterling will click for a full 60 minutes

[Netballcrazy1]

#1317432

What a joke the Thunderbirds organisation is. Why let Shimmin go if you weren’t 100% SURE that you would retain Guscoth because I am fairly sure Guscoth didn’t just decide to tell you that she wouldn’t be returning, with less than a week left of the contract period. This is horrible news, without a strong defence Thunderbirds won’t manage to turn over enough ball to even get close to breaking even the number of turnovers that their midcourt and attack will make. What a poor recruiting period. They managed to cut Shimmin and Pitman, lose Glasgow, and recruit Garrett and Gooden for two of those spots. Not looking good, Blackman is probably one the few options left for that last goal circle position as well.

(On a side note, sad to see Guscoth leave, she has been great and it looks like she might not play at all next season)

[Tully]

#1317433

If she is healthy what about Teigan O’Shannessy? I’d rate her well ahead of Blackman and Obst coached her at the last WYC like she did Garrett.

The Giants announcement of Brandley did farewell O’Shannessy which indicates she won’t be a TP there.

• This reply was modified 3 years, 6 months ago by Tully.

[al_ex]

#1317436

So Thunderbirds have lost Glasgow, Pitman, Shimmin and Guscoth to keep/gain Gooden, McDonald, Garret and an ANL defender? 2021 will be tough.

[Belle]

#1317437

Could someone post the Link to the news post about Guscoth not retiring please? thankyou

[Bluebird]

#1317440

She’s probably going to play for Team Bath. This might be why Team Bath still haven’t announced their squad.

[Joyjamie]

#1317444

think pitman could be joining her at Team Bath as well.

[Jinxibo]

#1317446

yes i think she might join Bath, unless she gets a call from Gail in NZ B-) B-)

[TACTIXSUPPORTER]

#1317447

Interesting. Guess it’s good they will actually use an Australian defender next season!

Some odd decisions made by Tbirds in the off season

[Author]

Posts