Glasgow 2026: England netballers secure convincing win over Malawi
England bounce back at Glasgow 2026
England‘s netball team secured a decisive 73-38 victory over Malawi at the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games. The win marks a return to form for Anna Stembridge‘s side after their recent defeat to Australia. The team’s performance at The Hydro saw them establish an early lead and maintain control throughout the match.
The Roses quickly gained momentum, with strong shooting from Olivia Tchine, who scored 24 from 26 attempts, and Lois Pearson, contributing 16 from 17. Malawi’s veteran player, Mwayi Kumwenda, was a key contributor for her team in the first half, achieving 20 goals from 23 attempts. Despite Malawi’s efforts to keep pace, England extended their advantage after the break.
Defensive reinforcements came with the introduction of Halimat Adio and Funmi Fadoju, while Sasha Glasgow and Eleanor Cardwell bolstered the attack. Cardwell notably scored with all 21 of her shots, contributing to England’s commanding performance. This victory marks England’s second win from three games in Group A of the tournament.
Tactical adjustments and team cohesion
Coach Anna Stembridge, in her second tenure with the Roses, made tactical adjustments during the match, including moving Lois Pearson to wing-back and bringing Sasha Glasgow into the attack. These changes proved effective, with Glasgow quickly making an impact on the scoreboard. Stembridge had previously led England to a fourth-place finish at the Games a number of years ago, and also played for Wales in 2002 and 2006.
Vice-captain Amy Carter highlighted the team’s determination to improve following their loss to Australia. She noted that a loss early in a tournament can be a valuable learning experience, allowing the team to address areas for improvement. Carter mentioned that the squad reviewed video footage, corrected errors, and strengthened their connection as a group.
A team games night was also part of their preparation, fostering camaraderie and providing a mental break from the intensity of the competition. Activities included a game called ‘The Mind’ and ‘Mafia’, which helped the players connect on a personal level. Carter emphasized the importance of focusing on aspects beyond netball to build team cohesion and gain perspective, which she believes contributed to their performance against Malawi.
Looking ahead in the tournament
England is currently third in their group, with South Africa, in second place, having a game in hand. The team will have a break from competition on Tuesday before returning to face Tonga on Wednesday. Tonga are making their debut at the Commonwealth Games, presenting a new challenge for England.
Carter expressed her anticipation for the upcoming match against Tonga, noting the variety of playing styles encountered in such tournaments. She explained that Tonga is expected to employ a zonal defence, similar to a New Zealand style, which differs from the approach of the African nations they have recently played. This diversity in opponents allows England to adapt their tactics and gain valuable experience.
Following the match against Tonga, England will play their final pool match against South Africa on Thursday. The squad for England includes players such as Halimat Adio, Imogen Allison, Eleanor Cardwell, Amy Carter, Ella Clark, Funmi Fadoju, Sasha Glasgow, Lois Pearson, Jayda Pechova, Jessica Shaw, Olivia Tchine, and Fran Williams. Malawi’s squad features Mphatso Banda, Sophilet Banda, Shabel Bengo, Martha Dambo, Aisha Gama, Florence Jeke, Mwayi Kumwenda, Takondwa Lwazi, Tendai Masamba, Stellah Matelezi, Ethel Ng’Ambi, and Melia Soko.
England’s netball history at the Games includes a gold medal in 2018, bronze medals in 1998, 2006, and 2010, and fourth-place finishes in 2002, 2014, and 2022. Malawi’s previous appearances saw them finish seventh in 1998, 2018, and 2022, sixth in 2006, and fifth in 2010 and 2014. Malawi’s Mwayi Kumwenda was the top scorer in 2014.
Source: tntsports.co.uk
As News GB's Senior Football Correspondent, Lewis Hartnell reports on the Premier League, the EFL and the England national side for readers across the country. He reported on south-coast football for a regional title. He holds a degree in Sports Journalism from Solent University and completed an NCTJ diploma. Lewis lives in Southampton, where he watches youth football and follows the transfer market. “The week's training ground decides the weekend's headlines.”
