Australia 14-3 Canada: James, Kelly score three runs to secure Group A top spot

Australia secured the top spot in Group A as Riley James and Tyler Kelly racked up three runs that fortified their 14-3 defeat of Canada on Tuesday at the U-18 Men’s Softball World Cup in Palmerston North, New Zealand.

Australia's pitchers Blake Hunter and Jeremy Garland combined for seven strikeouts in four innings, while Connor Brooks was charged with the loss.

Australia immediately opened up a 7-run hole in the first inning, including two doubles from Caleb Van de Griendt and Joshua Routledge.

Back-to-back RBI singles off the bats of Nicholas Murphy and Pierce Nugent-Moss led another rally in the second inning, giving Australia a 12-0 edge. Australia added two more in the third episode, on an error and a sacrifice fly.

Canada tried to come from behind off back-to-back RBI doubles from Mason McKay and Xavier Daneau but they were only limited to three runs as Australia closed the match 14-3.

Australia clinched the first place in Group A and will advance to the Super Round undefeated, whilr Canada will play Argentina tomorrow, in a win-or-go-home game.