The RP Blu Girls suffered their third-straight defeat, falling to world no. 22 Venezuela 5-1 in the XVII WBSC Women’s Softball World Cup Group C on Monday night (Manila time) at Campo da Softball G. Michelutti in Buttrio, Italy.
Kikay Palma had a splendid start as the Philippines’ starting pitcher, allowing only two hits in the first four innings and keeping the Venezuelans scoreless.
However, Venezuela turned things around in the fifth inning when Eila Infante, Yulexys Barrios, and Kimberly Caicedo reached base with two outs. Yurubt Alicard then reached on a fielding error, scoring Infante and giving Venezuela a 1-0 lead.
The pivotal moment came when cleanup hitter Yakary Molina hit a grand slam to deep left field, extending Venezuela’s advantage to 5-0.
In the top of the seventh inning, the Blu Girls attempted a late comeback, loading the bases with just one out.
MJ Maguad then hit a sacrifice fly to center, bringing Cheska Altomonte home for the Philippines’ first run of the World Cup.
However, Venezuela managed to turn the sac fly into a double play, tagging Reyae Villamin on her way to third base.
Cassady Knudsen, who had a no-relief appearance in the pitcher’s circle for Venezuela, gave up six hits but allowed only one run. She also struck out five Filipina batters.
Palma was credited with the loss, allowing five hits and five runs, all of which were unearned.
With this victory, Venezuela secured their first win and improved to a 1-2 record, while the Philippines remained winless in three outings.
The Blu Girls will be back in action in less than eight hours, facing world no. 8 Italy (3-0) at 2 a.m. (Manila time).
