Singapore's netball team failed to withstand an offensive onslaught from world No.6 Malawi in a 31-75 loss at the Netball World Cup in Sydney on Sunday.

Ranked 15th in the world, the Republic could not cope with the physical and fast-paced game employed by Malawi's attackers, who converted all 21 shots in the first quarter.

Chances were at a premium for Singapore at Sydney's Allphones Arena. Goal shooter Charmaine Soh and goal attack Chen Huifen managed only 35 attempts between them, converting 23, as they were repeatedly hounded and pressed by the Malawians.

Malawi led 42-15 at half-time.

Yu Mei Ling came on in the fourth quarter, converting three of four shots, as Singapore shot 69 per cent overall.

Malawi goal shooter Mwayi Kumwenda made 39 of her 43 shots while goal attacker Sindi Simtowe converted 23 of her 24 attempts. Substitutes Joyce Mvulaand Jane Chimaliro also contributed to Malawi's 90 per cent goal conversion rate.

Earlier in the day, New Zealand upset defending champions Australia 52-47 in their pool A match. The Silvers Ferns claimed their first win over the hotly-favoured Cup hosts in their last 10 meetings.