Malawi’s Queens won their first game in Group F, defeating Northern Ireland, 47-43.
The win is Malawi’s third in a row, and the team ranked 9th in the world, have only lost one match at this year’s World Cup, their opening day loss to New Zealand.
After the 51-49 defeat by Zimbabwe, Northern Ireland were aiming to bounce back but Joyce Mvula’s superb shooting accuracy helped Malawi clinch victory.
Malawi led 22-20 at half-time and moved nine up in the quarter before Northern Ireland cut the margin to 34-32.
The top two teams in Group F that also includes reigning champions Australia and Barbados, will proceed to the semi-finals.
Jane Chimaliro also notched 15 goals from her 18 attempts while in contrast, Northern Ireland’s shooting lacked accuracy as they finished with a below-par percentage of 74 compared to Malawi’s 91.
Northern Ireland went into the tournament ranked eighth – one place ahead of Malawi – but the Africans were as high as sixth earlier this year.
It is unlikely to get any easier for Northern Ireland when they face New Zealand on Tuesday. Malawi, after three successive wins, face world champions Australia.
Be the first to comment