England thrashed Northern Ireland 83-34 at The Hydro in their Commonwealth Games netball opener, with all 12 players featuring. Coach Anna Stembridge's side led 24-7 after the first quarter and 41-18 at half-time.

Jayda Pechova and captain Fran Williams impressed, while Lois Pearson, Sasha Glasgow and Liv Tchine linked well. Half-time substitute Eleanor Cardwell top-scored with 35 goals from 37 shots. The squad now focuses on Sunday's test against defending champions Australia.

"Getting that first win was important," said Stembridge. "Australia are world No 1 for a reason... we feel well prepared." Vice-captain Tchine added: "Everyone came out and gave everything... now we're ready to focus on Australia tomorrow."

Meanwhile, Scotland suffered a 74-44 defeat to New Zealand in their opener, though remaining group matches offer a chance to bounce back.