Northern Ireland lose on netball debut

Northern Ireland have been beaten in their first ever netball match at a Commonwealth Games, losing 71-50 to Malawi.

The African side, who are ranked fifth in the world, led by just four points at the end of the first quarter, but powered ahead in the second, outscoring their opponents 21-8.

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Goal shooter Mwia Kumwenda led the scoring for Malawi, making 44 of her 47 shots, while goal attack Sindi Simtowe made all 21 of her efforts.

Northern Ireland finished strongly, winning the fourth quarter 16-15 thanks to some late shots from Lisa Somerville, but were too far behind to make a comeback.

Northern Ireland will be in action again tomorrow against Jamaica.