Yi-Ting Chou dominates as Chinese Taipei top Czechia
Yi-Ting Chou's dominant pitching and a five-run fifth inning powered Chinese Taipei to a 6-2 victory over Czechia, securing their spot in the Final and a double chance to advance to next year's Finals.
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<p>Chinese Taipei completed the sweep in the Opening Round with a <a href="https://www.wbsc.org/en/events/2024-ii-u-18-womens-softball-world-cup-group-a/schedule-and-results/box-score/146403">6-2</a> triumph against Czechia on Friday, securing first place in the standings at the <a href="https://www.wbsc.org/en/events/2024-ii-u-18-womens-softball-world-cup-group-a/home">WBSC U-18 Women’s Softball World Cup</a> Group A at Estádio Municipal de Beisebol Mie Nishi in Sao Paulo, Brazil.</p>
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<p>Chinese Taipei took control of the game in the bottom of the
fifth inning, capitalising on four defensive errors by Czechia to score five
runs and gain a comfortable lead. Starter Yi-Ting Chou was the winning pitcher,
giving up four hits in 5.1 innings while striking out four. Her ERA is now
0.51, making her the leader of the competition.</p>
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<p>Chinese Taipei took the lead in the third inning when Wei-Chi Lin hit a lead-off triple. Lucie Vecerova struck out the next two batters, but a wild pitch allowed Lin to score the first run of the game, putting Chinese Taipei ahead 1-0.</p>
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<p>In the bottom of the fifth, Chinese Taipei sent nine batters
to the plate, taking advantage of four errors by Czechia to score five runs.
With two hits and multiple defensive misplays by the European champions,
Chinese Taipei extended their lead to 6-0.</p>
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<p>Czechia attempted a comeback in the top of the seventh
inning. Emory Cheng issued a walk and allowed a hit to open the inning,
prompting Chou to re-enter the game. Despite an infield hit and an error
allowing two Czech runners to score, Yu-Huan Ke retired the last two outs to
secure the 6-2 victory for Chinese Taipei.</p>
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