Softball: Black Sox hang on in Canada

VANCOUVER - The New Zealand softball team stayed alive in the Canada Cup playoffs with an 11-7 win over California A yesterday.

Today they play Phoenix Storm, who upset world No 2 Australia earlier in the tournament.

The California A game lasted nine innings and almost four hours, with the lead changing several times.

New Zealand used three pitchers, starting with Fiona Timu, who faced 24 batters for two strikeouts and eight hits. She was relieved by Ruta Lealamanua, who pitched to 16 batters for one strikeout and five hits, while Jaye Bailey finished with two batters for one strikeout.

Lisa Kersten, Rhonda Hira and Char Pouaka all had two safe hits, while Kiri Shaw, Togi Lote and Cindy Potae had one apiece.

The White Sox lost their first life in the playoffs when they were beaten by China 2-6.

They qualified for the playoffs in third place in their pool with three wins and three losses in section play.

The Kiwis are using the tournament as part of their buildup for the Olympics.

- NZPA