By Joshua Papanikolaou (PSG Staff)
Glory Alonzo kept her cool late the final inning of a 3-2 semi-final win against Queensland at the 2017 Pacific School Games after throwing nine strikeouts to help her team make the final of the 17 and under competition.
The 16-year old from Domingo Lacson National High School in Bacolod has pitched to catcher Chastine Jover in every game for the team that is undefeated while enjoying their first trip to Australia.
Constant screaming from Queensland bench hoping their batters could score another run in the final inning after coming back from a three-run deficit led to a dramatic finish at Adelaide Shores, West Beach.
“We were a little bit nervous,” said the Philippines captain who plays at second base.
“But we all supported each other and had fun.”
Head coach Russel Hulleza was more than happy with how her players kept their composure after giving up a comfortable lead in their twelfth outing at the 10th edition of the Games.
“I think it’s a good team now and we are going to prepare for the championship game,” Hulleza said.
“They are adjusting to the weather now that it’s warm again.
“Yes, it’s been a really good Games, the kids are having fun of course and it’s a good atmosphere, our pitcher has been a real key for the team.
“Yeah, every day they have a training program here – they train, compete and study.”
Charles Maxey of the Philippine Sports Commission helped with the translations after the game and was hopeful that the team could continue their streak and take gold in the final.
Most of the players in this team won silver for the Philippines at the Little League Softball World Series in the United States last year, including star pitcher Alonzo who will pitch in the final.
The Philippines play for the gold medal against New South Wales at 4:30pm (ACST) at Adelaide Shores, West Beach.