The Philippines rebounded from a loss to China with an impressive 11-1 victory over South Korea in the WBSC Women’s Softball Asia Cup held on Thursday at the Pingtan Softball Stadium in Fujian Province, China.
This victory propelled the Cebuana Lhuillier-supported team into the Super Round, concluding the group stage with a 2-1 record, just behind the undefeated China (3-0).
South Korea (1-2) and Hong Kong (0-3), the other two teams in Group A, were relegated to the Placement Round.
The Philippines commenced the tournament with a 7-0 win over Hong Kong but succumbed to China in their second game with a score of 0-11.
Jean Henri Lhuillier, president of the Amateur Softball Association of the Philippines (Asaphil), commented, “Losing 0-11 against China was a tough setback, but the true measure of a team is how they respond. I’m incredibly proud of how our girls bounced back to dominate South Korea. This team embodies the spirit of Philippine softball, relentless and resilient in the face of any challenge.”
The tournament also has three slots available for the Under-18 Women’s Softball World Cup in 2024. Joining the Philippines and China in the Super Round are Group B leaders Japan (3-0) and Chinese-Taipei (2-1).
Meanwhile, Singapore (2-1) and India (0-3) will join South Korea and Hong Kong in the Placement Round.
In the Super Round, the Philippines will face Japan on Friday afternoon and Chinese-Taipei on Saturday. The championship game and the battle for third place are scheduled for Sunday.
The Philippine under-18 team comprises Daniela Cabangon, Che-Restcel Dela Cruz, Jeryll Duller, Ciarina Daniela Eder, Shein Espinosa, Trisha Karyl Hicayen, Angelica Jean Latriz, Rhea Manalo, Magdalene Nangan, Eileen Polvorido, and Laira Dianne Silverio. The head coach is Ma. Lizviminda Jalandoni, and the pitching coach is Kaith Ezra Jalandoni. (AI/MNM)