Two home runs, consistent pitching lift Canada over the Philippines

World No. 5 and Olympic bronze medallists Canada shut out a brave No. 26 Philippines side, 5-0.

Before Canada took the lead on a three-run homer by shortstop Janet Leung in the bottom of the third, the Philippines had a good chance in the top half of the frame. Skylinne Ellazar got to Canada's star pitcher Sara Groenewegen with a runner at first. A leaping catch by Emma Entzminger at third closed the at-bat.

"The most important thing was to win the game," commented Entzminger postgame. "We take this one game at a time. It is always important to start a tournament with a win."

Ettzminger also hit a solo home run in the bottom of the fifth.

"We have shutdown pitching. The rest of the job is for our lineup. We take it swing by swing. We are not swinging for the fences. If you make good contact, the ball goes out."

Janet Leung definitely had a good swing on reliever Ann Antolinao, who had inherited two runners on base from starter Glory Alonzo. She was ahead in the count, 2-0, and drove the third in the left field bleachers.

Groenewegem left after three innings. The Philippines had their best scoring chance in the top of the fourth. Reliever Dawn Megan Bodrug struck out catcher Francesca Altomonte with runners at second and third to end the threat.