Historic win for GB U23s over The Netherlands

GB U23s beat The Netherlands 2-1 in a thriller to record their first ever World Cup win in China this morning.

It was a thrilling pitchers’ battle with GB’s Zac Sohosky getting the win, striking out nine Dutch batters over his complete game performance.

Zac Sohorsky was a warrior on the mound with a nine strikeout, complete game, one run performance.

GB’s defense was also of the highest quality with no errors and a crucial double play by shortstop Wallace Clark to end the Dutch second inning.

The win was also manger Jonathon Cramman’s first as manager of a national team.

"What an incredible day. I've been blessed to have some amazing moments with this program the last five years but that one is right up there,” said U23s manager, Jonathon Cramman.

“Full credit to the Dutch, they are a world class programme and we knew how much we'd have to give to beat them but these boys answered the call like they have everyday.

“Zac Sohosky is a true warrior and embodies everything right about this programme.

“Today was for Drew Spencer, Matteo Sollecito, Kennard Dawson, Jack Seppings, Russell Derbyshire and others who fought to get us here last year and were unable to attend this time.

“We look forward to battling for our second win tomorrow against a talented Chinese Tapei team."

The first two innings were scoreless until The Netherlands put one run on the board in the bottom of the third through a home run by shortstop Gedionne Marlin.

In true style, GB hit back immediately scoring two runs at the top of the fourth.

After James Quinn-Irons had walked, a bunt by Max Viera and a Dutch throwing error allowed Quinn-Irons to score with Viera advancing to second on the same play.

An infield groundout by Jake Lambdin advanced Viera and then Ray Mercer drove him in a sac fly to centre field to give GB the lead.

A sac fly by outfielder Ray Mercer drove in Max Viera to give GB the lead in the top of the fourth

Sohosky had found his rhythm and proceeded to dominate the Dutch offense over the next two innings.

GB still held the one run lead to set up a nail biting last inning.

The Dutch lead off batter got on base with a single who advanced to third on a sac bunt and a fly out.

With two outs and the tying run on third, GB held their nerve to get the final out as Kuijper flied out to left fielder Charlie Collins and secure the historic win.

GB U23s celebrate their historic win over The Netherlands today.

Tomorrow at 7.30 am, GB U23s complete their World Cup campaign against Chinese Taipei.

GB fans can follow and watch the game via the WBSC website

A big thank you to UK Sport and the National Lottery whose support has been crucial in the development of Great Britain Baseball.

All photographs courtesy of WBSC.