Great Britain U12s fall to first defeat despite brave comeback
Great Britain U12s tasted defeat at the hands of Slovakia in their second game of the 2024 European Championship Qualifier despite a late fightback after the hosts had moved to a 10-1 lead.
This lead proved insurmountable for Great Britain, and despite an impressive five-run fifth inning, they were eventually defeated 10-6.
There were some valiant offensive efforts from the GB team. Oliver Jago went two-for-two as a pinch hitter, Sebastian Taylor drove in two runs over two hits, and a James Theodorakis triple into centre field drove home three runners.
Both teams came into Thursday’s match with a win in their opening round of the B-Pool competition. Britain narrowly defeated Poland 3-1 and the hosts thrashed Romania 17-0.
Slovakia immediately showed themselves as early tournament favourites with their powerful batting order and watertight defence.
The hosts picked up where they left off in the first inning against GB and stormed into an early 3-0 lead before a six run fourth inning widened the lead.
On Friday, Great Britain will hope to bounce back against a tricky Belgium side who are one of two teams in the tournament to win both of their opening two matches.
Slovakia, who are the other unbeaten side, will look to continue their streak against Poland, who have won one and lost one of their two matches so far.
Full Box Score can be found here
Words : Michael Thomas
Photographs : WBSC Europe
