Scotland beat NI to boost World Cup qualification hopes
Scotland secured their second consecutive victory in the Netball World Cup 2027 qualifying competition, defeating Northern Ireland 67-43 at the Playsport Arena in East Kilbride on Saturday. This result strengthened Scotland's prospects of reaching next year's tournament in Sydney, with the Scots recording their highest ever score against Northern Ireland. The qualification picture remains wide open, with two European places available to join England, and a crucial final round of matches scheduled for Sunday to determine which teams will qualify.
The match itself was closely contested in the opening stages, with Northern Ireland trailing only 17-13 after the first quarter, but Scotland's superior control proved decisive as they built their lead to 35-20 by half-time following a red card for Northern Ireland's Fionnuala Toner. Scotland extended their advantage through the third quarter, reaching a 47-33 lead with 15 minutes remaining, before pulling clear in the final period to secure the win. Wales similarly advanced their qualification hopes with a 76-33 victory over the Republic of Ireland, with Wales facing Scotland on Sunday in a crucial qualifier.
- Scotland beat Northern Ireland 67-43 for second qualifying win
- Two European World Cup places to be decided on Sunday
- Wales also won; qualification decided in final round matches