Late ten run South Korean barrage halts British comeback

Great Britain were defeated 15-5 by South Korea in Amsterdam today in what would initially appear to be a completely one-sided game.  However, Team GB had staged an excellent comeback in the top of the seventh inning to level the game at 5-5.  Hopes of producing a big upset against the Olympic champions were quickly dashed as the Korean batters blasted six runs in the bottom of the inning to regain control. 

A further four runs in the eighth gave them a ten-run lead that saw the game called one inning early, making for a very disappointing end considering the Brits had worked so hard to get back into the contest.

The loss means that Great Britain have slipped to an 0-2 record in the second round of the Baseball World Cup.  They now have a day off before taking on Nicaragua in Rotterdam on Wednesday evening (18.00 BST). 

Judging by the game report on Great Britain’s official website, we once again had chances early on to get some runs on the board and were unable to take advantage.  It doesn’t matter who you are, it’s important for any team to make the most of the opportunities they receive.  For a team like GB, underdogs against much more experienced competitors, it’s even more crucial that we can make those moments count because you always get the feeling that if we don’t, the opposition will make us pay.

Of course, that’s much easier said than done when you’re facing the type of quality pitching that Cuba and South Korea can throw at you.  The British batters have just got to keep on plugging away and concentrating on having good at-bats. 

Wednesday’s game offers Britain the chance to make amends for a 10-0 loss to Nicaragua during the first round.  Third baseman Jimmy Morales and first baseman Sandor Mayorga both clubbed two home runs in that game, displaying an aggressive approach at the plate that paid dividends.  It’s imperative that we avoid any big innings if we want to gain some revenge.

This World Cup is a real learning experience for the British team.  Every game gives the players a chance to test themselves against quality opponents, which can only be a good thing for their development.  Still, it would be a big confidence booster if we could get a win or two during the second round.  Nicaragua might not seem the most likely opponent for us to turn over, but we now know what to expect from them and perhaps they may fall into the trap of taking us lightly.