The South Korean under-18 (U-18)안전놀이터 women’s softball team won their first win at the 2023 U-18 Women’s Softball Asia Cup.
In the second match against Hong Kong held in Pingtan, China on the 30th, Korea won a 12-3 runaway victory in the 5th inning.
Korea, which had been defeated 0-10 by China the previous day (29th), reported its first victory in the tournament and tied with the Philippines (1 win, 1 loss). China is leading with two wins.
Along with pitcher Yejin Koo, Jiyoon Kim (center fielder) – Jooah Yoo (second baseman) – Yeeun Kim (shortstop) – Seoyoon Lee (catcher) – Heeji Nam (designated hitter) – Minju Song (third baseman) – Dain Seo (left fielder) – The starting lineup was formed with Eom Soo-min (right fielder).
From the beginning of the game, Korea pushed Hong Kong hard. He gave up a run in the first inning, but scored a total of 6 hits, including 2 doubles and 2 triples, at the end of the 1st inning and scored 4 runs. The Korean batters, perfectly adapted to the ball from the Hong Kong starting pitcher, added 2 runs in the 2nd inning, 2 runs in the 3rd inning, and 4 runs in the 4th inning, ending the game.
Korean starting pitcher Koo Ye-jin lost control and gave up one run after one inning. Afterwards, Park Na-rim and Song Ji-in climbed the mound one after another and each lost one run, but they did not waver anymore and contributed to Korea’s victory.
Korea, which changed the atmosphere with a great victory over Hong Kong, is scheduled to play the last match of the preliminary round against the Philippines at 4:30 pm on the 31st. If they win the match against the Philippines, they will get the right to advance to the Super Round.
After the match, national team coach Jang Jae-ho said, “Yesterday we lost against China, but I think the players gained confidence by winning against Hong Kong.” I will advance,” he said, giving strength to his voice.