The Bank of Queensland Australian Little League team created history, recording their first ever win at the Little League World Series defeating Europe-Africa 10-1. This is the second time Australia has received automatic entry to the tournament without having to qualify through the Asia Pacific Qualifying Tournament, and the first time they have won a game.
A relaxed Australian team was dominant from the start and the bats were alive recording hits every inning. Multiple hits were seen from Etienne Charette, Matthew Coleman, Javier Pelkonen, Tarrant Reimers and Nicholas Riley ensuring Austtralia was adding runs consistently. Javier Pelkonen was the star batter collecting 3 hits, 3 RBI’s and a home run.
The bats were not the only thing that were on song; the pitching from Callum Schipp was outstanding. He was in control the whole game striking out 11 hitters in 5 1/3 innings and only allowing 1 run on 3 hits. Nicholas Riley came on to close the game out to give Australia their first win.
Australia needed to beat Mexico in their next game in order to proceed to the next round. Although they grabbed an early lead they were unable to come out victorious, losing their last game 6-2. Overall Australia finished with a 1-2 record at the 2014 Little League World Series.
The way the team played and carried themselves throughout the tournament has been outstanding, they have displayed the true characteristics and sportsmanship of Little League.
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