Dragons Slayer

That’s the verdict of skipper Sam Holt as the Sport Central club prepares for the visit of Celtic Dragons tomorrow night.

 

Sunderland-born Ewing (pictured) has been bubbling under as a Netball Superleague star of the future for the past five years.

 

But Holt has seen a new side to the versatile attacker following the loss of several senior players last summer.

 

“Marie is one of the most experienced NSL campaigners on court now,” said Aussie Holt, assistant to head coach Lisa Stanley.

 

“She’s looked around and realised there’s an added responsibility on her shoulders.

 

“And from what I’ve seen so far Marie is more than ready for the challenge.”

 

Durham University wing attack and former England Under 19 international Ewing has been an ever-present for TN in the NSL era.

 

And Holt has high hopes for the 26-year-old as Tyneside welcomes the return of top flight netball.

 

“Marie was starting to step up big style towards the end of last season,” added Holt.

 

“But there’s a new side to her this season. She’s started coaching at Durham and maybe that’s the reason for the change in her mental approach.

 

“She really wants it this season and she really wants the other players to want it to.

 

“That’s exactly the kind of attitude that me and Lisa are looking for right now.

 

“If there’s one player who’s really lifted my spirits since taking on the captaincy it’s Marie.”

 

Ewing looks likely to start at wing defence against the Dragons - who shocked their NSL rivals with a big win against Team Bath last weekend.

 

But the versatile attacker can play up front as a goal attack and could be switched depending on the final Celtic line-up.

 

Prolific Namibian Toetsie Kambatuku – who blasted 39 goals in last weekend’s season opener at Loughborough – should start alongside Northumbria University’s Darcie Worsdale.

 

But the Staffordshire student swapped places with Ewing during the Lightning clash as Holt and Stanley sought to freshen up an under-pressure TN attack.

 

Darlington’s Leah Kennedy – who made her NSL breakthrough last season – knows the hosts face a stiff test against the Dragons.

 

And she added: “As a goal keeper it’s a daunting prospect facing their attack. But we’re very confident after our comeback at Loughborough and looking forward to playing in front of our own fans again.”

 

The Sport Central action gets underway from 6pm and tickets are available from reception or in advance via www.nusportcentral.com