WILLIAMSPORT, Penn. – Anchored by an incredible start by Clayton Campbell, Hills Little League became the first Australian team in history to win their opening game of a Little League World Series as they defeated Emilia Little League (ITA) 3-1 in an epic encounter.
Campbell was lights out on the mound, striking out seven in five perfect innings of work and was backed up well by his team, with Hills doing the job on defence.
Hills Manager Les Stockdale was delighted with Campbell’s performance.
“Every time he goes out and pitches, he’s going to dominate,” Stockdale said.
“Hitters have real trouble catching up with his fastball, and to go no hits through five on the biggest stage in the world is an incredible effort.”
Australia took the lead early with Ryley Gonzalez driving in Will Edwards in the second inning, and the advantage extended in the third, with Clayton Campbell claiming an RBI after he scored Will Unitt in with a single.
The hits came consistently for Australia, as they kept finding ways to score. Harry Wheeldon added the third run of the ballgame in the fourth, as a single to left field gave Stephen Courtney the chance to cross home and extend Australia’s advantage.
Wheeldon then came into the game on the mound in the final frame to close it out. A passed ball saw Emilia pull a run back, but when Wheeldon struck out Francesco Segreto for the final out, euphoria ensued for Hills’ parents and players, a much-deserved reward for the team after a titanic first game.
Australia’s next game at the Little League World Series sees them match up with Aguadulce Cabezera Little League, a team from Panama representing Latin America. Aguadulce defeated Mexican team San Nicolas Little League 10-2 in the opening game of the tournament. Australia’s next game takes place on Sunday the 21st at 11am (1am AEST on Monday 22nd August).
Stay tuned with everything Little League at www.littleleague.org.au.
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