Since the Czech Republic managed to beat the Kingdom of the Netherlands twice in previous tournaments, the Dutch were warned. Unfortunately, the Czech Republic was very disappointing today. The Dutch did not have to go deep to clinch the victory.
Kingdom of the Netherlands 11 – 1 Czech Republic
After Ray-Patrick Didder doubled home Roger Bernadina in the first inning, the Dutch steadily extended their lead and never looked back. The fourth inning and the seven inning highlighted the game as the Dutch scored three runs in each of them. In the fourth, Ray-Patrick Didder connected for a three-run home run, in the seventh, an RBI single by Junior Martina, a bases-loaded walk and a bases-loaded balk led to three more runs.
Once again, manager Evert-Jan ‘t Hoen decided to spare his arms. Starter Shairon Martis was pulled after four innings in favor of Aaron de Groot, who pitched one frame. Juan-Carlos Sulbaran pitched one inning, Kevin Kelly lasted 1.2 innings and Wendell Floranus lasted one inning as well. As a result, Wendell Floranus earned the win as he pitched 1.1 perfect innings. Those five pitchers limited the Czechs to four hits and one run and struck out twelve Czech batters. Marek Minarik took the loss. In two innings, he allowed one run on one hit and two walks as he struck out three.
The Dutch collected thirteen hits in total, of which four doubles and a home run. With eleven runners left on base, the score could have been a lot higher.
Average-wise, Denzel Richardson was the best Dutch batter as he went 1 for 1 with an RBI.
Junior Martina went 2 for 3 with two RBI and three runs scored. Ray-Patrick Didder was a triple shy of the cycle. He went 3 for 5 with a home run, a double, four RBI and two runs scored.
Thanks to this win, the Dutch have clinched a spot in the quarter final and the group win.
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