Via AAP
Just as they dismantled Tonga and medal contenders England, Australia soared to victory on Wednesday morning (AEST) to fire off another warning to bitter rivals New Zealand.
The netball world No.1 outfit have now won three of their five pool matches at the Hydro, where they are set to stroll into the semi-finals.
South Africa, undefeated so far, are up next for overwhelming gold medal favourites Australia.
Sophie Garbin (22 goals/25 attempts) was again on song in the circle after taking on goal shooting duties in the second half, with fellow attackers Kiera Austin (13/14) and Cara Koenen (25/26) hitting their strides.
Jamie-Lee Price was deployed as centre, providing the Diamonds with 13 goal assists and 20 feeds.
But it was fellow Games debutant Georgie Horjus who called the shots in the midcourt, providing 24 goal assists and 32 feeds as wing attack.
Australia’s 12-strong squad fired on all cylinders against Malawi amid a media frenzy concerning the length of their dresses.
Australia have now beaten Malawi in all eight meetings.
The teams’ previous – and first – Commonwealth Games match was at the 2010 Games in Delhi, with Australia claiming a 74-35 victory.
New Zealand have also enjoyed a perfect start in Glasgow, including a 53-48 victory over world No.3 Jamaica in pool B.
The Silver Ferns next face Wales as they aim to punch a ticket to the semi-finals.
The Diamonds are aiming to win back-to-back Commonwealth Games crowns for the second time in the event’s history, after successfully defending their 1998 title in 2002.
Australia have never missed a netball final since the sport was added to the Games program in 1998 and are the most successful team with four gold medals.
