23/07/2023 1 Minute Read

Italy power to 9-0 win over New Zealand

The hosts took the lead against New Zealand in the first. After wasting a few scoring opportunities, they opened the score in the seventh on home runs by McKenzie Barbara and Erika Piancastelli. Ilaria Cacciamani threw a complete game.

World No. 8 Italy defeated No. 29 New Zealand, 9-0, and earned their second win in the tournament. Starter Ilaria Cacciamani went the distance for the win.

Italy wasted no time against Tyneesha Houkamau. The first four batters reached base, and the Azzurre scored the go-ahead run as McKenzie Barbara walked. Houkamau retired the side to end the threat.

Italy turned to the short ball in the top of the fourth. Giulia Longhi reached on a bunt with one out and advanced on an error and a sacrifice bunt. Marta Gasparotto scored her from third with a single up the middle.

McKenzie Barbara led off the seventh with a solo home run off reliever Amy Begg making it 3-0. Italy broke the score open on a two-RBI triple by Alessandra Rotondo. Erika Piancastelli, the ninth batter of the frame, hit a three-run homer off Tyla Morrison to make it 9-0.

"It was a demanding game," commented Marta Gasparotto. "We didn't have good at-bats early and missed the opportunity to open the score. We still enjoy having two wins at this stage."

"Their starting pitcher did well," added Italy's head coach Federico Pizzolini. "Maybe my players tried too hard, but you must respect their will to impress."

Francesca Tubetti, the youngest senator in the Italian Parliament and a native of the area, officiated the ceremonial first pitch.

Italy will retake the field at 8 pm (local time) against Canada. New Zealand will face Venezuela on Monday, 24 July.