NORTHERN Ireland’s netball Warriors suffered a surprise 54-46 reverse in their opening game of the inaugural Celtic Cup against Zimbabwe in Glasgow.
Of the four teams participating, Zimbabwe is least ranked on World Netball rankings as they are sitting on position 13, two slots below Nothern Ireland who are on position 11.
Hosts Scotland are ranked 10 while Wales is in position nine.
However, Zimbabwe recorded a 14- 7 win in the first quarter, 22- 18 in the second quarter, 39 – 31 in the third quarter before registering a 54- 46 win in the final quarter.
Essentially, Northern Ireland were unable to sufficiently surmount the defensive skills of the Zimbabwe Gems whose Elizabeth Mushore was voted Player of the Match.
The 23-year-old frequently thwarted the Warriors, stopping them from freely scoring despite their fast-paced attacks.
Northern Ireland must now regroup and attempt to secure victory against Wales on Friday night (6.00pm) to have any hope of making the tournament final.
The Welsh Feathers opened their campaign with a hard-fought 58-56 win over hosts Scotland.
Wales led at the end of the first and second quarters to led 35-28 at half time.
And they withstood late Scottish pressure to hold on for a narrow victory at Glasgow’s Emirates Arena.
Zimbabwe will now face Scotland on Friday evening before playing Wales on Saturday.
The bottom two sides in the four-team group will face off in the play-offs at noon on Sunday, with the top two teams meeting in the main play-off match at 2.00pm.
NI starting line-up v Zimbabwe
Squad in Glasgow
