KEY POINTS:
New Zealand scored their first win in four matches at the junior women's world softball championships in the Netherlands overnight, with an 8-0 victory over South Africa.
New Zealand started the game strongly and hit the ball well to win in five innings with the mercy rule invoked.
New Zealand scored six runs in the first inning with Liani Samuel smashed a home run with two runners on base, for the side's first home run of the tournament.
From the mound, Stevie Hamiora and Courtney Maihi were in control to give up just one hit between them.
With the win, New Zealand stand fifth in their pool and have a crucial game tomorrow against Chinese Taipei.
With eight teams in their pool, they need to finish in the top four to go through to the championship round.
New Zealand earlier lost to China, Venezuela and the Netherlands.
- NZPA
