Malawi scored their second victory of the Netball World Cup 2023 in Cape Town when they beat Barbados 84-48 It was the Queens’ 50th World Cup match since making their debut in 1995. This was the Islanders’ third successive loss, with their second-quarter win against Scotland their only victorious 15 minutes so far.
Malawi dominated from the first whistle, displaying seamless coordination and strategic play that left Barbados struggling to keep up. The Queens’ skilful passing, precise shooting and airtight defence left little room for the Bajan Gems to launch an effective counterattack.
With Thandie Galetta on for Jane Chimaliro as wing attack at the start of the second quarter, the African team stretched their lead even further. The next 15 minutes saw no respite for Barbados with their opponents managing a handful of incredible interceptions to turn the ball back to their own goal circle. At halftime, Malawi led 43-22.
Despite the uphill battle, the Bajan Gems started the second half on the right foot with Kadeen Corbin landing the first goal and their intent clear – to close the gap with secure ball movements into the goal circle. Malawi's experienced defenders of Towera Vinkhumbo and Jane Dambo however stood tall, thwarting Barbados' attacks and quickly transitioning to scoring opportunities.
Barbados did not give up easily, displaying their own flair and determination throughout the match. Their shooters worked tirelessly to convert opportunities into points, but the Malawian defenders proved to be a formidable force, ensuring that Barbados could not gain enough momentum to carry the ball through mid-court and into their goal circle for scoring opportunities.
In the third quarter, Malawi surged ahead and their centre-court attack left Barbados with more questions than answers. As the clock wound down, Malawi managed to maintain their lead, securing a substantial 29-point advantage going into the final stages of the match.
The Queens continued their dominance in the last 15 minutes. Their ability to control the game's pace and dictate the flow of play ensured that Barbados couldn't stage any kind of comeback.
Malawi’s tactical gameplay proved to be the deciding factor in their impressive victory over Barbados. Their shooting circle rotations and strategic positioning ensured a constant supply of scoring opportunities. On defence, they starved their opponents of quality ball
Most Valuable Player: Takondwa Lwazi
Goal Shooting Percentage: Malawi 91.3 per cent / Barbados 96 per cent
Penalty Count (Contact and Obstruction): Malawi 54 / Barbados 60
Quarter scores: 20-10 / 43-22 / 64-35 / 84-48
