PH Blu Girls suffer shock loss to China in Olympic qualifiers

WBSC PHOTO

The Philippine women’s softball team’s quest for an Olympic spot hit a roadblock after losing to China, 8-3, in the WBSC Softball/Asia Oceania Qualifier at Shanghai Chongming Sports Training Center.

The Philippines were off to the races early, taking a 3-run lead in the first inning of the Group B match, but Lu Ying hit a Grand Slam in the top of the sixth to put China ahead, 7-3, and deflate the Philippines’ spirits.

Philippine coach Venerando Dizer  fizzled out in the end after fatigue to pitcher Ezra Jalandoni crept in and the pressure of the game became too much for the Blu Girls.

“The game was definitely for our taking, but in the end we have to blame ourselves for this defeat. It was close yet so far,” said Dizer. “We have an uphill task but we intend to make the Super rounds and see what happens.”

The Philippines are tied with New Zealand in the second place of Group A at 1-1 while China is at the helm at 2-0.

China did a repeat performance of its 8-3 win over New Zealand in its previous game when it also trailed by three runs in the second inning.

The Blu Girls, who opened the Tokyo Olympic qualifiers with a 10-1 win over Korea on Tuesday, can solidify their bid for the Super Round if they beat New Zealand on Thursday.