The Emeralds won their first game of the 2014 ENEOS presents VI IBAF Women’s Baseball World Cup against Venezuela yesterday with a score of 4-3.
The innings were slow and steady throughout the entire game, with the first inning remaining scoreless for both teams. Venezuela was first to put a run on the board in the second, the Emeralds reciprocated the run in the bottom of the inning with Leigh Godfrey scoring off a sacrifice fly from Taylah Welch.
By the top of the 5th the Emeralds had a two run lead, however Venezuela fought back to tie up the game. The Emeralds were determined to record a win this time, and an RBI from Katie Gaynor scored Bronwyn Gell giving the Emeralds a one run lead. The game ended in the 7th with a 4-3 score to the Emeralds.
Stephanie Gaynor threw a good game, going 5 innings for no earned runs with Jacinda Barclay relieving to close out the game with two scoreless relief innings. On the field Bronwyn Gell took a great catch at shortstop, Shae Lillywhite with a great catch at second base and Christina Kreppold was controlling at third base with some standout plays as well. Tahnee Lovering also had another great game behind the dish. With the bats, it was a hard night for hitting with 10 walks, however Bronwyn Gell, Christina Kreppold, Katie Gaynor, Leigh Godfrey and Tahnee Lovering all had hits.
Manager Simone Wearne said "the team was keen to get out on the field for day two and make amends after a disappointing performance in their first game against Japan. We are continuing to improve each game and although this still wasn't our best game we got the W and are looking forward to finishing round 1 on a good note".
The Emerald’s will play their final game of round 1 today at 4:30pm (5:30pm AEST) versus Hong Kong, who are yet to win a game at the World Cup. The top two teams from each pool will advance to the second round, with the standings from round two determining who plays in the gold medal game.
To follow the Emerald’s progress visit emeralds.baseball.com.au or follow the team on the official Facebook or Twitter page.
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