Canada’s National Women’s Baseball Team opened play at the III IBAF Women’s Baseball World Cup with a convincing 19-9 win today over Hong Kong.
“This win was a good start for our team, but we know we can play much better defensively,” said André Lachance, Field Manager for Team Canada. “We showed some nerves early in the game, but our players responded positively and we finished strong.”
“Pitching and defense will win championships”, said Lachance. “We have some new players this year and it was important to get them into a World Cup game early in the tournament.”
Veteran Marie-Josée Tremblay (QC) pitched the first inning; newcomers Shelby Gordon (AB) and Louise Harris (ON) finished the game which was shortened due to the five-inning mercy rule.
“I am confident in our offense”, added Wayne Parro, hitting and first base coach. “We get better every year and we will compete against every country with our offense.”
Leading the offense against Hong Kong were veterans Nicole Luchanski (AB) and Mel Harwood (ON) who were both two for two with two walks.
Canada plays Japan on Monday evening at Botchan Stadium in Matsuyama in game two of the preliminary round.
“We expect a large crowd in support of the home Japanese team, but we are ready for them!” said Lachance.
The game is scheduled for 7:00 pm local time, immediately following the tournament’s opening ceremonies.
