Wales netball beat Tonga in final Commonwealth Games warm-up

Wales completed their preparations for the Commonwealth Games with a convincing 65-52 victory over Tonga in a behind-closed-doors warm-up match in Cardiff. The game was uncapped but provided both sides with crucial match practice ahead of the tournament.

The Welsh Feathers started strongly, exploiting the height of goal shooter Georgia Rowe, who was nearly flawless from the circle. Alongside goal attack Phillipa Yarranton, the pair combined for 19 goals in the opening quarter, giving Wales a five-goal advantage. Tonga, however, responded through their own shooter Uneeq Palavi, cutting the deficit to 32-29 by half-time.

Second-half surge secures victory

Wales regained control in the third quarter, extending their lead to seven goals, and dominated the final period to seal a 13-point win. The result was Wales' last match on home soil before the Commonwealth Games and a fitting send-off under head coach Emily Handyside, who will step down after the tournament.

• Georgia Rowe and Phillipa Yarranton scored 19 in the first quarter
• Wales led 32-29 at half-time after Tonga's fightback
• Wales outscored Tonga 17 in the final quarter to win 65-52
• World rankings: Wales seventh, Tonga eighth
• Coach Emily Handyside to leave role after Commonwealth Games

What's next for both teams

Wales will open their Commonwealth Games campaign against Uganda, ranked sixth in the world, on Saturday. Tonga face a tougher test against world number one Australia on the same day. The match also saw the 12-woman Wales squad receive their Commonwealth Games dresses from family members, with captain Bethan Dyke set for her fourth Games.