Kailee Cuico belted a three-run homer in the first inning to power the Philippine Blu Girls to another stunning win over Canada, 6-3, yesterday and advance in the next phase of the Canada Cup International Softball Championship in Surrey, British Columbia.
Cuico sent a one-ball, one-strike pitch by Canadian starter Sara Groenewegen past the outfield fence with Dani Gilmore on second and Hailey Decker on first with two outs in the top half of the first to spark the Blu Girls’ repeat performance against the host nation.
The Blu Girls’ first baseman also sent Kaityn Suitos from third on a two-out single in the fifth to take a 6-0 lead before foiling Canada’s comeback in the last two innings to preserve the victory.
In scoring their second victory over the Canadians – the other being a 6-2 triumph in last week’s tournament opener – the Blu Girls to play Puerto Rico for a chance at making the semifinals.
The Blu Girls are eager to avenge their 8-6 defeat to the Puerto Ricans Saturday.
If the Filipina batters win, they’ll face either Venezuela or the winner of the Mexico-Australia match being played at presstime.
Pitcher Sierra Lange allowed eight hits and walked three in a complete-game effort for the Blu Girls. (JT)
