Netball: Malawi win African showdown

Malawi got their netball world championship campaign back on track with a tough 44-32 win over African rivals Botswana in Auckland today.

The Queens of Africa had to work hard for their 12-goal victory following their lopsided opening game loss to New Zealand on Saturday night.

Gold medallists at the last two COSANA tournaments in Africa, Malawi led 12-6 after the first quarter but Botswana fought back with some enterprising play and long range shooting to close the margin to just two goals for a halftime score of 18-16.

Malawi again showed their experience and strong defence to open out to a 30-24 lead by the end of the third quarter, converting 12 of 14 goal attempts.

Their stronger defensive qualities in the circle created turnovers in the final quarter and restricted Botswana to 12 shots at goal, only eight of which were successful.

It leaves Malawi to battle Wales tomorrow morning for the second pool A qualifying spot in the top eight.

- NZPA