European Championship: Slovakia lost to Netherlands in their first game in elite category

The first game for Slovakia at A category of European Championship promised a duel between David and Goliath. The first timer played the most successful European national team.

And the tactics were fashioned to reflect this, as Slovakia decided to have a bullpen day and save pitchers‘ hands for other games. Despite this, Slovakia wanted to show the experienced opponent that they can play baseball. First batter, Martin Brunegraf, had the historically first hit for the country. However, following three players were striked out and so the first inning didn’t see Slovakia score.

Netherlands, on the other hand, took the lead in the bottom half of the inning after a defensive error. While Slovaks mostly finished with striekouts, Netherland bats increased their lead to 9-0 after Slovakia starter Marko Vykoukal got substituted.

Slovakia was close to scoring the first run in the fourth inning, when they loaded the bases with one out. However, inaccurate decision from referee Kroupa at third base meant double play and the end of the inning.

In the fifth inning Netherlands increased their lead to ten runs and it was up to Slovakia to score and avoid ending the game early.

Unfortunately, this didn’t happen and Slovakia lost their first game 0-11. They will play their next game against Sweden on Monday at 10:00. The game is likely to decide who will finish third in the group.

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