The Layritz junior girls softball team is in uncharted waters at the Little League World Series in Kirkland, Washington
Layritz knocked off Maunabo, Puerto Rico, 5-2 on Friday in the semifinals to advance to today's final against West Nunaka from Anchorage, Alaska. It will be the first time a Canadian team has played in the junior softball World Series final.
Jenna Saulnier paved the way to victory for Layritz, pitching a five-hitter, while contributing two hits and an RBI.
"Jenna [Saulnier] pitched the game of her life,'' said Layritz manager Paul Tucker. "We have been waiting all tournament for our bats to come alive and today they did.''
Layritz broke the 1-1 tie in the fourth inning with a four-run outburst. Emma Bowman started the uprising with a solo home run. Layritz finished the game with 10 hits, including two each by Stephanie Galitzine, Saulnier and Sydney Sparanese.
Ninoshka Ortiz suffered the loss.
"We were here last year and won one game,'' said Tucker.
"This time around, we are stronger and more experience and a little more prepared. Alaska was also here last year and they finished third.''
Tucker indicated that his starting pitcher in the final will be Ashley Penney, daughter of former Victoria Grizzlies' general manager and Peninsula Panthers owner Jackson Penney.
In the other semifinal, West Nunaka dumped host Kirkland 9-2.
